Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC (Hikma, Group) announced that Surendera Tyagi, PhD, will join Hikma as group chief scientific officer (CSO) and global head of research and development. Dr Tyagi will focus on the Group’s non-injectables business during the first year and will become a member of Hikma’s executive committee.
“Surendera is an outstanding scientist with a proven track record of leading research and development in some of the world’s largest and most successful pharmaceutical organizations,” said Saïd Darwazah, chairman and chief executive officer, Hikma. “Research and Innovation is one of our five pillars for growth and the appointment of Surendera is a significant step forward in executing on this strategy. We are very excited for Surendera to be joining us and accelerating our ability to develop novel ways to improve the health of people around the world.”
Dr Tyagi joins from Fresenius Kabi, where he most recently led their US Innovation & Development Center. While at Fresenius, he successfully expanded the company’s oncology business. Prior to joining Fresenius Kabi, Dr Tyagi served as chief scientific officer for Dabur Pharma, an oncology company that was acquired by Fresenius in 2008. He also has held scientific and/or regulatory roles at Roche, IGEN, Abbott/Hospira, and Schwarz Pharma with increasing management responsibilities.
Dr Tyagi has been an active member of the Association for Affordable Medicines, and participated in GDUFA II negotiations with the FDA.
“I am delighted to be joining Hikma at this exciting time in the company’s journey, leading such an important function,” said Dr Tyagi. “Hikma’s track record of delivering affordable, quality medicines to people who need them is a purpose that I share. I look forward to accelerating their R&D efforts by advancing and expanding their pipeline, leveraging Hikma’s highly experienced and talented R&D team.”