Michel Vounatsos has been appointed chief executive officer of Biogen and member of the board of directors, effective January 6, 2017. Mr. Vounatsos previously served as executive vice president and chief commercial officer at Biogen.

Mr. Vounatsos succeeds George A. Scangos, Ph.D., who has led the company since 2010 and had plans to step down once a successor was found. Mr. Vounatsos joined the company in April 2016 after 20 years with Merck, where he held leadership positions of increasing responsibility in Europe, China, and the U.S., driving growth across multiple geographies. Since joining Biogen, he has implemented key initiatives to extend the company’s leadership in multiple sclerosis, expanded Biogen’s reach in key global markets, and effectively prepared for the introduction of breakthrough treatments for patients in areas of high unmet need.

“Biogen is focused on creating shareholder value by advancing cutting-edge science to address some of the greatest challenges in medicine. In seeking our next chief executive, the board sought a leader with a record in building commercial operations and a passion for science,” said chairman of the Biogen board Stelios Papadopoulos, Ph.D. “It was clear to us through a rigorous search process that Michel is that leader who can guide Biogen in the next phase of its evolution.”

“It is an honor to be asked to lead this great company, one that has played such an important role in transforming the treatment of multiple sclerosis for patients globally,” said Mr. Vounatsos. “I am excited to build upon Biogen’s legacy, as we pursue innovative new therapies for those suffering from serious neurologic and neurodegenerative diseases and create value for shareholders by maintaining a clear focus on what is best for patients.”

“Our near-term priorities are clear,” Vounatsos continued. “We intend to gain approval for SPINRAZA to provide the first treatment for spinal muscular atrophy; continue to grow our global MS franchise; fully enroll our phase 3 trials for aducanumab as we advance our lead candidate in Alzheimer’s disease; reinvigorate our pipeline in the areas of neurology and neuro-repair; and invest in our employees as we work together to define our future.”

“Michel is an inspiring leader who cares deeply for patients and our employees; he has a clear understanding of what is needed to drive our business forward,” added Dr. Scangos. “Michel is deeply committed to Biogen’s mission, our values, and our great research and science. Importantly, he brings a background in both medicine and business, along with a global perspective and keen focus on execution that will serve this company well as Biogen transitions into its next stage of growth and innovation.”