Merck KGaA and Serono have launched Merck Serono S.A., following the successful closing of the share purchase agreement. “With the combined innovative power of two strong companies, we have the unique opportunity to create a superb union of pharmaceutical chemistry and biotechnology,” said Elmar Schnee, new chief executive officer of Merck Serono S.A. “We want to utilize the best of both companies. A total of 28 projects in clinical development, a combined R&D budget of approximately EUR 1 billion and the two key growth drivers Erbitux for oncology and Rebif for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, give us the best foundations for a successful future.”

Merck Serono S.A. will be managed as a subsidiary of Merck KGaA by the following management team: Elmar Schnee, chief executive officer; Olaf Klinger, chief financial officer; Francois Naef, chief administrative officer. The board of directors consists of Michael Becker, (chairman), Peter Bohnenblust, Josef Dubacher, Carlo Lombardini, Elmar Schnee, Axel von Wietersheim and Philippe Tischhauser.