Pfizer appoints Dr Albert Bourla as Chief Operating Officer

It has recently been announced that Dr Albert Bourla has been appointed as Pfizer’s new Chief Operating Officer, starting in January 2018.

Working his way up the career ladder at Pfizer for over 20 years, Dr Bourla has undertaken a multitude of senior level positions, providing extensive experience across Pfizer’s vast portfolio. From vaccines, oncology and animal health, Dr Bourla will advance the business’ strategy and create further business growth through further investments and acquisitions.

“The naming of a Chief Operating Officer comes at a time when our business is strong as we continue to advance our strategy while also managing a dynamic and challenging external environment, commented Ian Read, Pfizer Chairman and CEO.

"The addition of a COO will enable me to spend more time focusing on the company's long term strategic direction, ensuring continued R&D productivity and engaging with government policy and industry leaders on key issues facing the future of the healthcare industry.”

Related stories

• KKR aims to invest over $200mn capital in its Health Care Strategic Growth Fund
• CVS acquires Aetna Inc for $69bn, with the drive to transform the US healthcare sector
• Apple’s FDA-cleared Apple Watch band underlines its growing healthcare focus

Since 2016, Dr Bourla has worked as Group President of Pfizer’s Innovative Health Business, and led leadership revenues for the business to grow 11% operationally in 2016. The first nine months of 2017 have also grown 9% operationally.

Pfizer Innovative Health includes six business groups: Consumer Healthcare, Inflammation & Immunology, Internal Medicine (neuroscience and pain, and cardiovascular and metabolic), Oncology, Rare Disease and Vaccines.

Albert is a proven and trusted leader with over two decades of leadership experience and a demonstrated track record for delivering strong business results. He possesses the right combination of skills, knowledge, strengths and a deep commitment to Pfizer’s culture that make him the clear choice to become Pfizer’s COO,” added Read.

A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Dr Bourla also holds a PhD degree in the Biotechnology of Reproduction from the Veterinary School of Aristotle University. Additionally, Dr Bourla is a member of the Pfizer Foundation and the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (Bio), the world's largest biotechnology trade association.