Juno Therapeutics, a biopharmaceutical company focused on re-engaging the body’s immune system to revolutionize the treatment of cancer, announced the appointment of Robert Azelby as Executive Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer, effective immediately.
Prior to joining Juno, Mr. Azelby was at Amgen, where he was Vice President and General Manager of Amgen’s Oncology Business Unit.
“Bob is a tremendous leader who will build a world-class commercial team at Juno,” said Hans Bishop, Juno’s Chief Executive Officer and President. “His experience in growing an impressive oncology business, including planning commercial strategy and overseeing multiple launches, will play a critical role in Juno’s next phase of growth.”
At Amgen, Mr. Azelby was responsible for the Oncology Business Unit, representing over $6 billion in annual revenue with over 600 sales and marketing personnel. Since taking over leadership in May 2012, Bob grew the business to be the second largest oncology division in the U.S.
“I am excited to join Juno at a time when we have the opportunity to shape commercial strategies for a new and innovative class of product candidates that have the potential to benefit patients suffering with cancer. I look forward to building and leading a top-tier organization that will help bring these exciting medicines to patients,” said Mr. Azelby.
During his 15 year tenure at Amgen, Mr. Azelby was also the Vice President of Amgen’s U.S. Oncology Sales team, which is one of the largest oncology sales teams in the U.S. In addition, Bob has been the Vice President of Amgen’s North American Commercial Effectiveness Unit, responsible for sales and marketing functions, including market research, forecasting, sales training, and sales operations. Bob garnered international experience as Amgen’s General Manager, Netherlands, responsible for all aspects of its commercial operations in that country. Before then, Bob held numerous sales and marketing positions, each with increasing responsibilities. Roles included project management, business development, regional sales management, and national marketing director. Mr. Azelby will report to Mr. Bishop.
Mr. Azelby received his undergraduate degrees in Economics and Religious Studies from the University of Virginia and his Master of Business Administration from Harvard University.
Source: Juno Therapeutics, Inc.
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