Global pharmaceutical business executive Ido Kanyon has been appointed CEO of medicinal cannabis company AusCann, effective May 22.
Mr Kanyon brings more than 15 years’ senior executive experience in the pharmaceutical industry, most recently at Teva Pharmaceutical Industries.
He was the global head of Specialty Pipeline, Global Marketing and Portfolio at Teva headquarters in the US where he was responsible for the company’s specialty medicine pipeline portfolio, tasked with maximising the value of the company’s R&D investment in innovative medicines.
AusCann says his expertise in operational excellence across multiple R&D and manufacturing pharmaceutical technologies enabled Mr Kanyon to design and implement best-in-class industry standards to transform Teva’s operational performance in sites across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. Previously, he has held several quality assurance and regulatory affairs leadership roles at Teva.
“Our extensive executive search generated an impressive field of candidates and Ido stood out for his leadership acumen and track record of commercial achievements throughout his career,” AusCann Chairman Dr Mal Washer said.
“Ido is very highly regarded in the pharmaceutical industry and, having worked both for start-ups and for one of the largest pharmaceutical firms worldwide, he understands AusCann’s start-up origins and where the firm is headed. We’re confident that his experience, energy and drive will successfully lead AusCann into its next phase of growth as a pharmaceutical development, sales and marketing business.
Mr  Kanyon said: “Medicinal cannabis will have an ever-increasing presence in healthcare as a credible treatment for chronic pain and additional indications with unmet medical needs. I believe there’s a unique opportunity to place patients, physicians and caregivers at the centre of our mission.”
Interim CEO, Dr Paul MacLeman, will step back into his role as an Executive Director when Mr Kanyon commences with the business in May.
