Eli Lilly and Company India (Lilly), has appointed Edgard Olaizola as its new Managing Director, overseeing Lilly’s operations in India and Sri Lanka with effect from September 1, 2013.

Commenting on his appointment, Edgard Olaizola said, “I am delighted to be a part of Lilly India team. India is one of the key markets for Lilly in Asia, with an immense opportunity to positively impact the lives of patients with our quality products and services. I am excited to continue Lilly’s journey to success in one of the most dynamic markets in the world.”

Olaizola will succeed Melt Van Der Spuy, the current managing director, Lilly India, who has been promoted to the position of Vice President, Emerging Markets (Latin America and Asia Pacific) for Elanco Animal Health (fully owned subsidiary of Eli Lilly and company).

Olaizola brings with him over 13 years of diversified experience in Lilly, with a host of senior level positions to his credit across different markets, including US, Canada, Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. His last role was as General Manager, Lilly Taiwan, where Olaizola played a crucial role in making Lilly Taiwan as one of the best performing countries for Lilly in Asia region.

Edgard Olaizola holds a degree in Economics from Universidad Catolica Andres Bello and has completed his Post Graduation in Business Management from Washington University in St. Louis.

Lilly, a leading innovation-driven corporation, is developing a growing portfolio of pharmaceutical products by applying the latest research from its own worldwide laboratories and from collaborations with eminent scientific organisations.