Merck & Co. says global human health president Adam Schechter to step down; "reshapes" its commercial organisation

Merck & Co. on Monday announced that Adam Schechter, president of the drugmaker's global human health division, will be stepping down at the end of the year. The company noted that Schechter will be transitioning to an advisory role to CEO Ken Frazier. 

Schechter, who joined Merck in 1988 and has lead the integration of Schering-Plough following its merger with Merck in 2009, served as president of the company's global human health division since 2010.  

The drugmaker also announced the creation of two new positions effective January 1, 2019, including the appointment of Frank Clyburn, most recently president of Merck's global oncology business to chief commercial officer. Additionally, Michael Nally, head of the company's vaccines unit, will serve as chief marketing officer.

Frazier stated "[Schechter's] leadership and unwavering dedication to finding new ways to bring Merck’s medicines and vaccines to more patients around the world have been hallmarks of his time at Merck," adding "because of him we are better positioned to address future opportunities and challenges as a global biopharmaceutical company, and Frank and Mike have a great foundation upon which to build future success."