Baxalta names new head of immunology

Baxalta has announced the appointment of experienced healthcare leader Jacopo Leonardi as its new executive vice-president and president of immunology.

Prior to Baxalta's recent establishment as an independent company, Mr Leonardi held roles of increasing responsibility within Baxter BioScience, serving as the regional head of North American haematology, vice-president of US sales and marketing for biotherapeutics, and general manager for US haemophilia.

Before joining Baxter in 2009, he spent nearly 15 years in key development and leadership roles in technical service, sales, global new product development and US brand management at Unilever, Lilly and Johnson and Johnson.

In his new role, he will be responsible for leading Baxalta's immunology division, with the launch of Hyqvia, its treatment for adults with primary immunodeficiency, highlighted as a key priority.

Ludwig Hantson, chief executive officer and president at Baxalta, said: "His expertise in orphan diseases and his commitment to serve patients will be instrumental in bringing innovative therapies to market."

This comes after the firm named Dr Karen Ferrante and Dr Francois Nader as new members of its board of directors earlier this month. Both will take up their positions on July 27th.