Syngene ropes in new CEO

Syngene International, contract research arm of Bangalore-based Biocon, appointed Jonathan Hunt as its CEO-designate. Hunt will take charge after the retirement of current CEO Peter Bains in March. Bains who worked as a director since 2010, was appointed as the CEO in February and will continue as a member of the board post his retirement.

"Hunt has a rich experience in the global biopharmaceutical industry and a proven track record of leading transformational change and delivering growth. We are sure under his leadership Syngene will continue to strengthen its position in the global contract research and manufacturing services market," said Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, MD, Syngene International.

In his new role, Hunt would be responsible for strengthening Syngene's relations with its existing global customers as well as forging new relationships. He will also steer the company's investments in developing and strengthening its capabilities and capacities to augment its service offerings.

Prior to Syngene, Hunt had a long standing association with AstraZeneca where he held various leadership positions, including President & Director of AstraZeneca, Austria and President & COO, AstraZeneca India. “Syngene has a compelling business model , a track record of delivering operational excellence to its customers and ambitious plans for continued growth.

I look forward to working closely with the Board, senior management team and leading the company to a new phase of growth,” said Hunt on his appointment.