Astra-Zeneca Snags Merck's Overall Business Leader -- In China -- A Coup!

While almost all multi-national pharma concerns have experienced their fair share of bumps in the road, in China -- most often related to procurement, and contracting -- and several are still under DoJ investigation (for alleged FCPA irregularities) here state-side, Ms. Cheng had kept Merck's nose quite clean, in that regard. So I expect it will take more than a minute to fine a worthy successor, to report in to Kenilworth, from Beijing or Shanghai. In time, Mr. Frazier will find the right person -- but it will take some time. So, this is a coup for AZ.

From Pharmacy Times, then -- a bit:

. . . .AstraZeneca today announced that Pam P. Cheng has joined the Company as Executive Vice President, Operations and IT. Pam will succeed David Smith, who is retiring after nearly ten years with AstraZeneca. Pam will be responsible for manufacturing operations and supply chain, procurement and information technology globally. In the role she will oversee continued progress in driving efficiency and delivering excellence in these areas. . . .

Ms. Cheng was a 17-year veteran of Merck & Co., most recently serving as President of MSD China, covering a wide functional scope which included commercial, R&D, manufacturing and various business support organizations. Prior to serving as President of MSD China, Ms. Cheng served as Senior Vice President, Global Supply Chain Management for Merck in New Jersey, with overall end-to-end supply chain oversight for its human health, vaccines, and consumer care businesses globally. . . .

Just now recovering in full, from a late Blackhawks festivities night. . . but onward, we go. I'll have a note up later today, about an update on one of the potential buyers (a for profit business) for Whitehouse Station. So, stay tuned, buckaroos.