The British Biosimilars Association (BBA), the representative group of biosimilar manufacturers in the UK, today named Teva's Dr Andrew Ellis as its new chair.
He replaces Sandoz’s Kavya Gopal, who was the association's chair since 2017.
TV UK's Director of Secondary Care, Dr Ellis is an existing member of the BBA’s steering group. A graduate from the University of Liverpool, he began his career as a research scientist specialising in the development of agents to treat ischaemic heart disease before taking up other leadership roles.
Dr Ellis joined Teva in 2007. He currently focuses on issues of market access, while leading the company's commercial and marketing teams.
“We are already seeing the real potential of biosimilars to transform the lives of patients with long term and complex conditions, such as cancer. I am looking forward to chairing the BBA as we continue our work to ensure access to quality, safe and effective biosimilar medicines for UK patients,” Dr Ellis said.
The BBA is an expert sector group of the British Generic Manufacturers Association (BGMA). It works together with patient groups, healthcare professionals, regulators and policymakers to increase understanding of biosimilars and to drive a sustainable environment for the development, production and continuing use of these critical medicines across the country.
Commenting on the appointment, Warwick Smith, Director General of the British Biosimilars Association (BBA), said: “Andrew is already a valued and active member of the BBA and we are very much looking forward to having someone of his depth of experience and enthusiasm as the Chair of the group,”
Welcoming the appointment of Dr Ellis, Kim Innes, General Manager of Teva UK & Ireland said a focus on biosimilars was a natural progression for Teva following the company's role in the development of the generic medicine industry worldwide over the past 40 years.
“Andrew comes with a wealth of experience in the field of biosimilars and is passionate about expanding access for UK patients to these important medications. I am confident that his leadership and knowledge will be of great benefit to the whole industry.” Inns added.
