Former Pfizer executive to lead WebMD as CEO
NEW YORK — WebMD has tapped Pfizer's group president of animal health, consumer health care and corporate strategy to serve as its new chief executive.
Cavan Redmond was appointed CEO of WebMD, as well as a member of the company's board of directors on Thursday. He brings to his new role more than 20 years of healthcare experience, encompassing a broad range of global healthcare businesses, including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, consumer health care and infant nutritionals.
"Cavan brings unparalleled expertise and leadership in both biopharmaceutical and consumer health care to WebMD, and we are excited to welcome him to the WebMD team," WebMD chairman Martin Wygod said. "He has a successful track record in identifying and leveraging new revenue opportunities, driving efficiency and establishing sustainable growth platforms. Along with our experienced management team, I have great confidence that Cavan will take WebMD to the next level. Cavan's proven ability to drive strategy and leverage the value of brands will be invaluable as WebMD continues to define and lead the market for digital health information."
In related news, WebMD's CFO, Anthony Vuolo, who has also served as interim CEO since January 2012 while the board of directors conducted a search for a permanent CEO, will continue in the position of finance chief, the company said.
"WebMD is driving innovation in the rapidly changing healthcare market with its industry leading proprietary products and services for consumers, physicians and healthcare companies," Redmond said. "As the biopharmaceutical commercial model continues to evolve, WebMD can capitalize on these changes. WebMD's digital reach to consumers and physicians is an important part of the industry's communications infrastructure and as the healthcare industry undergoes significant changes, there is tremendous opportunity for WebMD to better enable patients and physicians to engage with one another. I look forward to working with WebMD's management team and employees, as well as the board of directors, to deliver innovation to our users and value for our customers and shareholders."