Acceleron Pharma, a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of novel therapeutic candidates that engage the body’s ability to rebuild and repair its own cells and tissues, has announced the appointment of the experienced commercial executive, Thomas McCourt, to its board of directors, effective immediately.

"We are pleased to welcome Thomas McCourt to our board of directors. Tom’s expertise in designing and implementing commercial strategy, building sales and marketing organizations and launching several important therapeutics, will be invaluable as Acceleron prepares for the next stage of corporate growth," said Francois Nader, M.D., chairman of Acceleron’s board of directors.

McCourt serves as chief commercial officer and senior vice president of marketing and sales of Ironwood Pharmaceuticals. McCourt brings 30 years of experience building commercial strategies and capabilities across multiple companies for new therapies. Prior to joining Ironwood in 2009, where he led the commercial launch of Linzess, McCourt led the U.S. brand team for denosumab at Amgen. Before that, he held a number of senior commercial roles with Novartis, including directing the launch and growth of Zelnorm for the treatment of patients with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic constipation. He was also vice president of strategic marketing and operations during his tenure at Novartis.

Earlier in his career, McCourt was part of the founding team at Astra Merck Inc., leading the development of the medical affairs and science liaison group and serving as brand manager for Prilosec. He earned a degree in pharmacy from the University of Wisconsin, where he serves as a member of the board of visitors for the School of Pharmacy.