Novartis nabs Merck's Bruno Strigini as president of oncology business

Swiss pharma major Novartis (NOVN: VX) has announced the appointment of Bruno Strigini as president of Novartis Oncology, effective June 1, replacing Herve Hoppenot, who  quit the post early this year to become chief executive of USA-based Incyte Corp.

Mr Strigini (pictured) joins Novartis from US drug giant Merck & Co (NYSE: MRK), where he most recently served as president for Europe/Canada, a region comprising 37 countries with over 10,000 associates. With 25 years of experience in pharmaceuticals, animal health, OTC and vaccines leading in both international and local roles, he has a global perspective on the health care industry, with expertise across diverse geographies, including both mature and emerging markets.

During his career, Mr Strigini has held increasingly senior executive positions in a number of companies, such as Schering-Plough, UCB-Celltech and SmithKline Beecham. Previous roles have included president of international operations, president of Japan and Asia-Pacific, and senior vice president and head of global marketing and business development, as well as managing director positions in New Zealand, the UK and Spain.