Cook Medical names new vice-president of corporate development

Cook Medical has named Joe Roberts as its new vice-president of corporate development, a role that will see him work directly with physicians and hospitals to promote product innovation.

Mr Roberts is a veteran of the medical device company, having originally been recruited in 1979 and occupying various positions prior to his retirement in 2003.

He subsequently rejoined the organisation in 2008 and will now report to Jerry Williams, senior vice-president of corporate development, as he aims to support Cook's future product development efforts.

Kem Hawkins, president of Cook Medical, praised Mr Roberts for his dedication to patient care quality and "uncompromising support for physicians exploring new treatment options".

He added: "Having Joe on our executive team strengthens our ability to focus on finding innovative solutions that help patients worldwide."

Earlier this month, the company announced the appointment of Dr E Morrey Atkinson as vice-president of research and development and chief scientific officer at its Cook Pharmica business unit.