Premier Research appoints Dr Colin Hayward as European medical director

US pharma services company Premier Research has appointed Dr Colin Hayward to lead and develop its European medical affairs and pharmacovigilance operations.

He joins the Philadelphia-headquartered firm as European medical director from pharmaceutical medicine consultancy Prism Ideas where he served as director.

Prior to that role, Dr Hayward served at Roche, where he held a series of positions in pharmacovigilance leading up to that of international medical leader. Before that he worked in the UK's NHS in anaesthesia and intensive care.

"Dr Hayward brings medical expertise, clinical knowledge, leadership, and a wealth of experience in key areas important to our customers and will provide an added level of therapeutic insight to Premier's services," said Sue Stansfield, executive vice president, clinical development.

"He will be a tremendous asset for both employees and customers and is a welcome addition to our strong team in Europe."

Stansfield herself also joined Premier Research in January, and in her new role will have global responsibility for leading the company's clinical trial management services.

She has more than 25 years experience in the pharmaceutical and contract research industries, including stints at clinical service organisations PRA, PPD and Quintiles.