The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) has appointed Dr. Thomas Schinecker, CEO of Roche, as its new President, effective January 1, 2025. Schinecker, who served as IFPMA Vice-President for two years, will be joined by Rob Davis, CEO of MSD, as the Vice-President. The leadership transition follows the completion of Dr. Albert Bourla’s term as President.
Leadership Transition in IFPMA
Schinecker’s appointment marks a significant shift in IFPMA’s leadership. As outgoing President, Dr. Albert Bourla emphasized the organization’s role in driving innovative medicines and vaccines. Schinecker, in his new role, aims to propel the industry forward with bold policies and pioneering innovations.
2023 Highlights: Roche’s Resilient Performance
In his first letter to shareholders, Schinecker shared Roche’s 2023 performance, detailing significant growth despite the decline in COVID-19-related sales. Roche achieved a sales figure of CHF 58.7 billion, driven by strong demand for innovative treatments like Vabysmo, Columvi, and Lunsumio. These therapies provided hope for patients with conditions like age-related macular degeneration and blood cancer.
Focus on Innovation and Strategic Partnerships
Schinecker reaffirmed Roche’s commitment to innovation, highlighted by partnerships with Alnylam and Telavant to treat high blood pressure and inflammatory bowel disease. Roche also achieved breakthroughs in diagnostics, with new immunoassays setting standards for conditions like sepsis in newborns. Schinecker emphasized that digitalisation and artificial intelligence will play a key role in future innovation, further strengthening Roche’s R&D pipeline.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Schinecker’s focus will be on expanding Roche’s research and development capabilities and enhancing digital solutions in drug development. With a rich history of breakthroughs across various medical fields, Roche is uniquely positioned to continue its leadership in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics globally.
Summery of the news
| Why in News | Details |
|---|---|
| Dr. Thomas Schinecker appointed President of IFPMA | CEO of Roche, Dr. Schinecker, to take over as IFPMA President on January 1, 2025, after Dr. Albert Bourla completes his term. |
| Key Leadership Transition | Dr. Schinecker was IFPMA Vice-President for 2 years. Rob Davis, CEO of MSD, appointed as Vice-President. |
| IFPMA’s Role in Pharma | IFPMA is a global trade body representing pharmaceutical manufacturers, emphasizing innovation and policy leadership. |
| 2023 Roche Performance | Roche reported a sales increase of 1% in 2023, totaling CHF 58.7 billion. Vabysmo, Columvi, and Lunsumio were key product highlights. |
| Breakthrough Medicines | Vabysmo for eye diseases, Columvi and Lunsumio for blood cancer. Alecensa and Inavolisib for lung and breast cancers. |
| Roche’s Strategic Acquisitions | Partnerships with Alnylam for high blood pressure treatment, and Telavant for inflammatory bowel disease. |
| Roche’s Focus Areas in 2023 | Emphasis on digital solutions, AI in drug development, and breakthroughs in diagnostics (e.g., Elecsys IL-6 for sepsis). |
| Roche’s CEO Focus | Strengthening R&D pipeline, enhancing innovation, and advancing digital solutions in pharmaceutical development. |
| Roche Global Operations | Roche has over 100,000 employees and is a leader in oncology, neuroscience, ophthalmology, and in-vitro diagnostics. |
"India, Japan Begin First Talks on Econo...
Sri Lanka's Central Bank Eases Monetary ...
Operation Tamarisk The Cold War’s Secr...
