BMS appoints oncology development head

Bristol-Myers Squibb has promoted Dr Fouad Namouni to oncology development head.

In his new role, Dr Namouni will oversee the development strategy for the pharmaceutical firm's oncology pipeline from early stage development through to commercialisation.

He will remain a member of the research and development leadership team, reporting to chief scientific officer and executive vice president Francis Cuss.

Dr Namouni first joined Bristol-Myers Squibb in France in 1999 as a life-cycle manager for chemotherapy drug Taxol (paclitaxel) and has since held a number of increasingly senior positions in research and development.

On moving to the US in 2006, Dr Namouni took over responsibility for metastatic colorectal cancer treatment Erbitux (cetuximab), before serving as development lead for Opdivo (nivolumab) and Yervoy (ipilimumab). He most recently served as head of medical.

Cuss said: “Fouad has demonstrated highly successful strategic and visionary leadership in oncology and immuno-oncology drug development and medical affairs throughout his career at Bristol-Myers Squibb.

“As a trained pediatric oncologist, Fouad brings to this role exceptional clinical experience and an unwavering commitment to patients.

“I am confident that our oncology development programmes will continue to thrive under his leadership.”