Medicines Australia appoints new chairman

The Board of Medicines Australia has appointed Mr Will Delaat, the retiring Managing Director of Merck Sharp & Dohme, as its new Chairman.

Mr Delaat has just announced his retirement from Merck Sharp & Dohme after 11 years at the helm of that company.

Mr Delaat has been a director of Medicines Australia since 1998. He has previously served as Chairman, from 2003 to 2005, and as Vice-Chairman.

On retiring from Merck Sharp & Dohme, Mr Delaat will resign his directorship of Medicines Australia, but will continue to serve the Board as an independent, non-voting chairman.

Mr Delaat said he was excited by the opportunity to chair the Medicines Australia Board during a time of significant challenge and opportunity for the innovative pharmaceutical industry.

“I am honoured to have the full confidence of the Medicines Australia Board to help guide the Association over the next two years,” Mr Delaat said.

Medicines Australia chief executive Ian Chalmers said Mr Delaat’s appointment was extremely positive for the industry.

“Will’s vast and varied experience as Managing Director of Merck Sharp & Dohme in Australia, and his previous appointments as Chairman and Vice-Chairman of Medicines Australia equip him to make an excellent contribution over the next two years as our Chairman,” Mr Chalmers said.

The term of Mr Delaat’s chairmanship will expire 31 December 2009.

–ENDS–

Contact Person:

Jamie Nicholson
Media Communications Manager
Phone: 0419 220 293
Email:
 Jamie.Nicholson@medicinesaustralia.com.au