Novo Nordisk appoints new US legal affairs head

Curtis Oltmans has been promoted to corporate VP and general counsel, legal and quality affairs at the North American division of Novo Nordisk.

The diabetes-focused firm said Oltmans, who was previously VP and deputy general counsel, will have responsibility for all strategy and initiatives in the areas of law, quality, intellectual property, grants and philanthropy related to Novo's business in the region.

Oltmans has served at Novo Nordisk Inc – the North American division of Novo – since 2005.

During this time he has accomplished several notable achievements, include leading the company's Native American Health Initiative, a project designed to build diabetes care and education programmes with the Rosebud Sioux Tribe in South Dakota.

"Curt has used his extensive knowledge of the pharmaceutical industry to make significant contributions during his tenure so far at Novo Nordisk," said Jerzy Gruhn, president of Novo's North American business Novo Nordisk Inc.

"He has led our legal team through a number of significant milestones, along with overseeing an important social responsibility effort for the Native American community.  We look forward to his continued leadership as a part of the executive team."

Prior to joining Novo, Oltmans spent 13 years at Eli Lilly, where he served in positions in both the US and Europe.