Aptuit has plans to expand its clinical operations capacity with a new clinical packaging and logistics facility on the east coast of the U.S. The Clinical Operations business line is comprised of Clinical Packaging and Logistics (CPL), Aptuit Informatics, and a global distribution network. During the past 18 months, CPL management has integrated several processes, facilities and systems into a single, coordinated global operation.

The company is considering several site locations around the greater Philadelphia area for its 400,000 – 500,000-sq.-ft. CPL facility, which will more than double the CPL operations currently in NJ and provide expansion for formulation development, analytical testing and manufacturing. The site is expected to be qualified and operational next summer. The company is also planning a facility expansion in Deeside, Wales, which is expected to be operational in 2008.

As part of this expansion, Gerry Hepburn has been promoted to president, Clinical Operations. According to a company statement, Mr. Hepburn has been influential in the growth of the CPL business as senior director, Clinical Packaging and Logistics responsible for Aptuit’s European operations in Bathgate, Scotland and Deeside. Since joining the company in 2003, he has driven positive change in quality, service, customer acceptance and leadership. He has also led the initial deployment of the Clinicopia system within Aptuit and will continue to oversee the development of the Clinicopia product suite in his new role.

“Gerry brings tremendous experience to this global role, and his natural humor and leadership skills have added fuel to our success to date. His promotion recognizes his many achievements and provides our employees and customers with continued stability,” stated Scott L. Houlton, chief operating officer.