Singapore: Starpharma's vice president, Dr Malcolm McColl, has been appointed CEO, Viralytics. Prior to this, Dr McColl was VP, business development, Starpharma, since 2010. He has worked for three years at Hospira as director, business development, Europe, Middle East and Africa and spent 13 years with CSL in roles in its animal health division. 

Announcing the changes, Viralytics' executive chairman, Mr Paul Hopper, said that, "Dr McColl's experience with big pharmaceutical companies such as CSL and Hospira and proven ability to negotiate at the highest level is ideal for Viralytics. Viralytics is at an important stage in its development and we're determined to do everything we can to maximize value for shareholders. Every good chairman knows that a strong CEO appointment is essential in enabling the value inflexions."

Dr McColl said, "The Viralytics platform has enormous scope and using oncolytic virotherapy to treat cancer is emerging as a compelling new technology in cancer research and treatment. Viralytics is well-respected with excellent programs already in place thanks to the good work of current and previous management. I look forward to making a substantial contribution to the future success of Viralytics and driving the programs forward."

Dr McColl brings more than 20 years biotechnology experience to the position. He has spent most of this time developing or acquiring new products and maximising commercial returns by way of partnerships with global and local pharmaceutical companies. He has completed approximately 50 R&D, licensing, M&A and other partnering transactions in his career.

Dr McColl holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Science with first class honours from the University of Melbourne and an MBA from the Melbourne Business School.