Ipsen implements new US governance to prepare for Somatuline launch in oncology

French drugmaker Ipsen (Euronext: IPN) has announced new governance in the USA following its decision to set up its own oncology team to commercialize Somatuline Depot (lanreotide) in neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) in the USA.

Marc de Garidel will oversee this projected launch while Cynthia Schwalm will join Ipsen's US Operations to head up the Endocrinology/Oncology Business Unit as of February 3. As of mid-August 2014, she will take over as General Manager of the US commercial affiliate.

Marc de Garidel, chairman and chief executive of Ipsen, said: "Addressing the $500 million GEP-NET1  market in the US represents a key opportunity for the Group to build a long term presence in oncology. With the decision to launch Somatuline alone, Ipsen reiterated its strong commitment to growing the US platform. In this regard, we are delighted to announce the recruitment of Cynthia Schwalm to strengthen the leadership of our US operations. Cynthia is a highly recognized executive with over 30 years of experience in oncology and in neurology and an in-depth knowledge of the US market."