Gilead Sciences appoints SVP for liver disease unit

Gilead Sciences has chosen Dr John McHutchison as the new senior vice-president (SVP) of its liver disease therapeutics division.

Dr McHutchison, the former associate director of the Duke Clinical Research Institute at the Duke University Medical Center, is a recognised authority in the fields of gastroenterology and hepatology.

In his new role, he will take responsibility for overseeing the firm’s research and development efforts in the fields of liver disease, including hepatitis B and C.

Dr McHutchison expressed confidence about the firm’s ability to create new treatments in areas where there remains an unmet medical need.

He added: “The strength of Gilead’s scientific leadership and the unique opportunity to help shape future therapeutic possibilities for many patients with liver disease led to my keen interest in the company.”

Last month, Gilead Sciences initiated a new share repurchase programme after expressing confidence in its growth prospects in the coming years.