Takeda Pharmaceuticals announces Mr James Jones has been appointed to lead the combined Takeda and Nycomed commercial operation in Australia, following the recent completion of Takeda’s acquisition of Nycomed.

Mr Jones, who most recently served as Managing Director at Nycomed Australia, says Takeda and Nycomed are a strong strategic fit, with complementary geographies and product lines.

“Takeda is now the 12th largest pharmaceutical company in the world, with a combined presence in more than 70 countries.

“The integration unites the best talents from both companies, creating an unbeatable workforce and vibrant global culture,” Mr Jones said.

“We continue to strive towards reaching our goal of achieving better health for patients worldwide through leading innovation in medicine.”

Mr Jones – who holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing major) from the University of New South Wales – has 20 years experience in growing pharmaceutical brands in local and international markets. He has served as Director of Primary Care at Schering Plough, Sydney; Marketing Director of Cardiovascular at Sanofi-Synthelabo, New York; and as International Franchise Manager for Sanofi Pharma, Paris. Mr Jones has also worked as Managing Director for Nycomed Australia since January this year.

According to Mr Frank Morich, CEO, Nycomed and EVP, International Operations (Americas/Europe), Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc, combining the two companies has enhanced their business platform for sustainable growth in an industry for which a truly global presence is critical.

“Naming our Commercial country managers is a significant step in the integration of Takeda and Nycomed.

“This diverse and experienced team of leaders will help us realise the great potential of the new, combined Takeda/Nycomed organisation and their commitment will prove invaluable as we focus on the core tenets of our Mid-Range Plan: innovation, culture and growth,” said Mr Morich.

The combined Takeda/Nycomed organisation has significantly expanded its reach in Emerging Markets and deepened its position in Europe. It also strengthens global manufacturing capacities and brings together complementary therapeutic areas.

The combined company will employ more than 30,000 employees with an active presence in the therapeutic areas of metabolic diseases, gastroenterology, oncology, cardiovascular health, CNS diseases, inflammatory and immune disorders, respiratory diseases and pain management, as well as having a well-balanced presence in pharmaceutical markets of Japan, Asia, the United States, Europe and emerging markets.

About Takeda
Located in Osaka, Japan, Takeda is a research-based global company focusing mainly on pharmaceuticals. As the largest pharmaceutical company in Japan and one of the global leaders of the industry, Takeda is committed to striving towards better health for patients worldwide through leading innovation in medicine. For more information about Takeda, visit www.takeda.com.