GSK chief Andrew Witty succeeds Arthur Higgins as president of EFPIA

The European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA), which represents the research-based industry in Europe, has named Andrew Witty as its new president. Mr Witty, who is chief executive of UK-based drugs giant GlaxoSmithKline, officially took up this post on January 1, succeeding outgoing president Arthur Higgins, CEO of Bayer HealthCare, a position he is also relinquishing for personal reasons.

On accepting the post, Mr Witty said: 'I am pleased to have the opportunity to represent our industry in Europe at this challenging time, when the policy considerations of health care have probably never been more pertinent. I thank Arthur Higgins for the focus he brought to the role of President, and the solid base it provides. As a result of his efforts, we are well prepared for future engagement and cooperation with the new Commission, European Parliament, Member States, patients and other stakeholders.'

He continued; 'Europe needs a 21st century approach to health care; one that provides access to optimal and equitable quality of care in a manner that is sustainable. We need policies that make this a reality, as well as policies that recognize innovation, equipping us to develop new medicines and therapies that citizens seek.'