Merial appoints Fabian Kausche to lead Global Research & Development

- Veteran of animal health brings depth of expertise to Merial's R&D organization -

LYON, France, June 10, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Merial, the animal health division of Sanofi, today announced that Fabian Kausche will be leading the company's global research and development (R&D) efforts, effective June 9, 2014. Dr. Kausche brings to the company a wide range of global experience in pharmaceutical and biological R&D and business leadership positions, at both human and animal health companies.

Dr. Kausche joins Merial after 10 years at Novartis, where he was most recently global Head of R&D for Animal Health. Prior to this, he served as Senior Vice President and global Head of R&D for the Over-The-Counter Human Health Division, and as Vice President of Sales for the US Companion Animal business, successfully increasing year-over-year sales. Before joining Novartis, he was a clinical research scientist for the Upjohn Company and senior director for clinical development of biologicals for Pfizer Animal Health.

"Fabian's expertise and proven track record in product development with approvals around the world, in addition to his business and organizational leadership, deliver a rare combination of talents and knowledge," said Carsten Hellmann, CEO of Merial "With our recent introductions of groundbreaking products like NexGard™ and Longrange®, and with an extensive pipeline in place, Fabian's leadership will further accelerate our R&D efforts for continued and sustainable growth and success."

As the new Global Head of R&D, Dr. Kausche will be based in Duluth, Ga., USA, with responsibility for advancing Merial's leadership in the discovery and development of innovative vaccines and therapies for companion and production animals. He will lead Merial's global R&D team, including more than 700 scientists and support staff at R&D sites around the world, to advance more than 50 projects currently in development for a variety of animal species.

A German citizen, Fabian holds a PhD in veterinary medicine from the Veterinary School in Hannover Germany, a Masters of Science degree from Iowa State University (US), and completed an Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School.

Fabian Kausche will be a member of the Merial Leadership Team and will report to Merial CEO Carsten Hellmann.  He will also be a member of the Sanofi R&D Leadership Team.

About Merial

Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health, well-being and performance of a wide range of animals. Merial employs 6,200 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide with close to €2 billion of sales in 2013. Merial is a Sanofi company. More info on www.merial.com

Media Contact: Heidi De Wit-Sommerfeld - Tel: +1 678 638 3763

SOURCE Merial

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