US-based Omni Bio Pharmaceutical has named Bruce Schneider as the company's new chief executive officer (CEO), effective 1 January 2013.
Omni Bio is involved in developing alternative uses of Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT), designed for treating various indications, as well as recombinant forms of AAT.
Prior to joining the company, Schneider served as executive advisor to various large and small pharmaceutical companies including Pfizer, where he was engaged to facilitate strategic planning and decision-making for the early drug development pipeline.
In addition, the company has appointed Bruce Forrest as a consultant in the areas of product and business development.
Both Schneider and Forrest served as former executives at Wyeth Research, which was acquired by Pfizer in 2009, claims the company.
Omni Bio Pharmaceutical CEO Bruce Schneider said he is pleased to be joining the company at the pivotal point in its drug development and commercialization efforts.
"I believe its science and IP positions covering new uses of AAT hold great promise for addressing many important areas of unmet medical need," Schneider added.
"I am also excited to be joined by Dr. Forrest, who brings significant experience, energy and insight to help the further commercialization of Omni Bio's current IP portfolio as well as its drug development efforts for new recombinant versions of AAT."
Omni Bio interim CEO Steven Bathgate said, "We believe their collective knowledge and proven track records will significantly enhance Omni Bio's ability to commercialize alternative uses of plasma-derived AAT and chart a solid path forward for its recombinant AAT R&D program."
