BRIEF—Bayer lures Otsuka exec to head clinical development

Germany’s Bayer has appointed Christoph Koenen as the new global head of clinical development and operations within research and development at its Pharmaceuticals Division, effective January 1, 2022.

“We are very pleased to welcome Christoph Koenen to our R&D organization. Christoph brings with him broad development experience and a strong track record in cardiovascular and metabolic research in both the academic and industry settings,” said Dr Christian Rommel, head of research and development and member of the pharmaceuticals executive committee of Bayer AG.

“He has deep knowledge in harnessing external partnerships and outstanding scientific collaborations with professional networks and health authorities worldwide,” he added.

Christoph Koenen joins Bayer from Otsuka Pharmaceutical, where he most recently held the position of chief medical officer.

Prior to this, he held multiple senior leadership positions in clinical development at GlaxoSmithKline, Novo Nordisk and Bristol Myers Squibb.