Chiltern promotes Richard Pilnik to chairman

London and North Carolina-based clinical research organisation Chiltern has promoted Richard Pilnik to become its new chairman, succeeding Nick Thornton.

Pilnik became a member of the board of directors in 2015 bringing considerable industry experience across Asia, Europe, Latin America and the US to the firm.

Prior to joining Chiltern, Pilnik served as executive vice president at Quintiles and president of its Commercial Solutions division from 2009 until 2014.

He also brings leadership experience from Eli Lilly, which he joined in 1983 and subsequently held a number of senior positions including president for Europe, Middle East, Africa and CIS, and group vice president and chief marketing officer.

Jim Esinhart, chief executive officer of Chiltern, said: “On behalf of Chiltern's senior executive team and staff, as well as the investors and board of directors, I look forward to continuing to work with Rich in his new position as chairman.

“I would also like to thank Nick Thornton for his exceptional contribution to Chiltern over the past 10 years.”