Roche replaces head of pRED, who is moving on to Pfizer

Swiss pharma giant Roche (ROG: SIX) today announced that Dr William Pao, head of Roche pharma research and early development (pRED) since 2018, has decided to leave Roche for a new opportunity and return to the USA, effective March 18, 2022.

Dr Johannes (Hans) Clevers, who joined the board of directors in 2019, will step down from this position and be appointed the new head of Roche pRED effective March 18, 2022. Dr Clevers will become a member of the enlarged corporate executive committee and will be based in Basel. A successor to Dr Clevers’ board position will be identified and announced at a later date.

Roche’s chief executive Severin Schwan commented: “Having had the opportunity to work closely with Hans Clevers as a member of the Roche board, I could not be more pleased to have him as the new leader for pRED. His outstanding scientific credentials, collaborative and pragmatic style, and excellent leadership will enable our continued success and strong momentum towards translating science into medicines for patients around the world in the years ahead.” Mr Schwan added: “William Pao has been instrumental in the transformation of our pRED organization and has significantly strengthened and diversified our research and development portfolio. My sincerest gratitude goes to him for all that he has contributed to Roche and for patients. I wish him only continued success for the future.”