Roche announced significant leadership changes today as Johannes (Hans) Clevers, the company's Head of Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), prepares to retire at the end of August 2025. The departure of the renowned scientist marks a pivotal transition for the world's largest biotechnology company as it continues advancing its pipeline of potentially transformational medicines.
Strategic Impact on Drug Development
Clevers, who joined Roche's Board of Directors in 2019 before assuming leadership of pRED in March 2022, has been instrumental in accelerating the company's drug development efforts. According to Roche CEO Thomas Schinecker, "Under his leadership, the pRED organisation has accelerated several potentially transformational medicines into the final phase of development that will shape the company for the years to come."
The 68-year-old physician-scientist's tenure has been marked by significant progress in translating cutting-edge scientific research into clinical applications. Schinecker praised Clevers as "an exceptional scientist who has been instrumental in translating cutting-edge science into improved patient outcomes."
Continuity in Research Leadership
Despite stepping down from his pRED role, Clevers will maintain his involvement with Roche's research initiatives by continuing to lead the Institute of Human Biology until a successor is announced. This arrangement ensures continuity in the company's research strategy during the leadership transition period.
The Institute of Human Biology represents a key component of Roche's research infrastructure, focusing on advancing the company's understanding of human disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets.
Additional Executive Changes
Alongside Clevers' retirement, Roche announced that Barbara Schädler, Head of Group Communications and member of the enlarged Corporate Executive Committee, will retire at the end of 2025. Schädler joined Roche in 2019 and has been credited with modernizing the company's communication function over her six-year tenure.
CEO Schinecker highlighted Schädler's contributions, stating, "During more than six years at Roche, Barbara Schädler has fully integrated and modernised our company's communication function. Communications is a core pillar representing who we are as Roche."
Pipeline Implications
The leadership changes come at a critical time for Roche's pharmaceutical division, with multiple late-stage development programs potentially nearing regulatory submissions. The company has not disclosed specific details about which transformational medicines have been advanced under Clevers' leadership, but the emphasis on final-phase development suggests several candidates may be approaching pivotal clinical milestones.
Roche's position as the world's largest biotechnology company and global leader in in-vitro diagnostics underscores the significance of maintaining strong research leadership during this transition period. The company has indicated that successors for both positions will be announced in due course.
