Mallinckrodt plc (NYSE: MNK), a global specialty pharmaceutical company, announced yesterday that it has named Carlos V Paya, MD, PhD as its new director.

Dr Paya has 30 years of branded pharmaceutical industry, science and medical practice experience, and joins the Mallinckrodt board effective today, 22May 2019. He will serve as an independent director on the board's Portfolio Committee. He recently stepped down as the president, chief executive officer and board member of Immune Design Corp. He previously served as president of Elan Pharmaceuticals, and spent a number of years with Eli Lilly and Co in discovery research, clinical development leadership roles, most recently global leader of the diabetes and endocrine franchise. Prior to his industry roles, Dr Paya spent around a decade at the Mayo Clinic-Rochester, including his role as professor of medicine, immunology and pathology, and vice dean of the clinical investigation program. He is also a member of the board of BIO (Biotechnology Innovation Organization), and a board member and chair of the nominating and governance committee for Fludigm Corporation, a biotechnology tools provider.

Angus Russell, chairman of the of Mallinckrodt board, said, 'Carlos brings an important blend of industry expertise and clinical experience to our Board, including direct involvement in drug development, innovation, commercialisation and international markets. He is a proven leader with strong strategic, operational, clinical and leadership skills, with a track record of delivering results in challenging and competitive markets. I am confident that our board and Mallinckrodt will benefit from his unique experiences, diverse insights and strategic counsel.'