Bayer appoints new head of global innovation and development, consumer health

Life sciences company Bayer has appointed Dr Sharon James as head of global innovation and development for consumer health, following the retirement of her predecessor Dr John O’Mullane.

Dr James joins from Reckitt Benckiser, where she mostly recently held the position of senior vice president, head of global research and development at the company’s global headquarters in Slough, UK.

She has also previously held various senior roles for PepsiCo and GlaxoSmithKline.

Erica Mann, member of the board of management and president of Bayer AG’s consumer health division, said: “With more than 25 years’ experience in the fast-moving consumer goods and consumer product sector, Sharon has a proven record of developing and supporting products for leading consumer brands.”

“I am excited that Sharon is joining consumer health, and know that under her leadership Bayer will continue to successfully develop and deliver new innovative self-care solutions that help people around the world be a little healthier every day.”

Dr James’ product development experience spans health, personal and home care categories where she has delivered transformative and consumer-loved innovation internationally.