PAGB appoints new vice-presidents and treasurer to Board

PAGB, the consumer healthcare association, has announced the appointment of two new vice-presidents and a treasurer to their Board.

Bas Vorsteveld, area managing director for Northern Europe at Kenvue, and Rob Elliott, OTC centre of excellence lead at Viatris, have been elected as vice-presidents.

Meanwhile, Simon Wade, finance director for GB and Ireland at Haleon, has been appointed as treasurer.

The elections took place at PAGB’s annual general meeting today (24).

Bas steps into the role after serving as PAGB’s president for two years and following his recent appointment at Kenvue.

Commenting on his new position, he said: “I’m really happy that I can continue to drive the very important work on self-care for PAGB in my new role as area managing director for Kenvue Northern Europe.”

“We believe in the extraordinary power self-care can bring for consumers as well the benefits it will drive to relieve pressure on the NHS.

“The 10-year NHS strategy is an ideal moment to further embed self-care in the future, and as PAGB we will support the government with ideas and solutions that will enable consumers to get the best possible access to self-care.”

Rob, who joined the PAGB Board in 2024, brings nearly two decades of experience in healthcare marketing and commercial leadership.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, he said: “I’m delighted to be taking on the role of PAGB vice president, supporting PAGB and its members to bring to life the new five-year strategy, in particular promoting self-care and encouraging prescription-to-OTC switches following the recent announcement from the department of health and social care.’’

Simon Wade, finance director for GB and Ireland at HaleonLinkedin

As treasurer, Simon will support PAGB’s general meetings and participate in the Operations Group.

Speaking about his appointment, he stated: “I’m very pleased to have been appointed honorary treasurer at PAGB, contributing to the effective operations of this crucially important organisation.”

“At Haleon, I’ve seen first-hand the value the organisation brings through its advocacy of the sector, our priorities, and delivering support for its members. I look forward to contributing to its continued success.”

Welcoming the new appointments, Michelle Riddalls OBE, CEO of PAGB, said: “Having representatives of our member companies in such pivotal positions on our Board is so important to ensure we continue to represent the industry’s interests with a fresh perspective and an expert voice.”

“As we work to deliver PAGB’s new five-year strategy, it’s fantastic to have two Vice Presidents who are so closely aligned with our goals and have both been involved in the development of our strategy.

“Their direction and experience will be invaluable in driving forward our programme of work to actively promote self-care and best practice in the consumer healthcare industry,” she added.

PAGB represents manufacturers of branded OTC medicines, self-care medical devices and food supplements in the UK.