Franz Humer Joines the Board of BIAL

BIAL, the largest Portuguese pharmaceutical company and one of the major Iberian, has just incorporated as a non-executive Board member, Franz Humer, former CEO and Chairman of Roche.

The incorporation of Franz Humer, one of the most internationally respected personalities in the pharmaceutical industry, is part of the consolidation of BIAL’s internationalization strategy for the next decade.

Franz Humer, who retired from Roche in 2014, has a long career in the pharmaceutical industry, having previously held management positions at Schering Plough and GlaxoSmithKline. In 1995 he joined the Board of Roche, as head of the Pharmaceutical Division and as Chief Operating Officer. From 1998 until 2008, he took over as CEO and, from 2001 until March 2014, as Chairman.

Graduated with a PhD in Law, an MBA from INSEAD, Franz Humer is a member of the Board of Citigroup, Chairman of Diageo, Chairman of the International Center for Missing and Exploited Children and Member of the International Advisory Board of Allianz, among other positions.

Luís Portela, Chairman of BIAL, said: "It is an honor to count on the experience of Dr Franz Humer, who dedicated his professional career to the pharmaceutical industry in large multinational companies of innovation. His incorporation is especially relevant to BIAL as it is a recognition of the work we have been developing."

According to Franz Humer "to be part of BIAL's Board is a challenge. I’ve been following BIAL for many years and I think it has made a remarkable journey, based on a long-term strategy focused on R&D, which is a pioneer work in Portugal. I’m really excited to give my contribution to its strengthening, particularly in the international markets."