HeartWare International, an innovator of less invasive, miniaturized circulatory support technologies for advanced heart failure, has appointed Katrin Leadley, M.D., as chief medical officer of HeartWare, effective September 1. Leadley brings to HeartWare extensive strategic leadership, with more than 20 years of clinical and industry experience at life sciences firms, including Quintiles, Boston Scientific and JenaValve Technology in Munich, where she spent the last three years as chief medical officer leading the company's clinical, regulatory, scientific and medical activities.

During her time at JenaValve, Leadley oversaw the company's global clinical programs and worldwide regulatory strategy.  She provided leadership and guidance as the company's safety officer for all JenaValve products throughout the product lifecycle and she offered medical guidance to the organization's R&D, marketing and physician training programs. She also was responsible for the company's scientific communications and for collaborating with key opinion leaders in the field.

Previously, Leadley spent eight years at Boston Scientific, based in San Jose, Calif. and Munich, where she was global senior medical director, clinical sciences. During her time at Boston Scientific, Leadley oversaw the implementation of worldwide policies and processes for the medical and clinical sciences function of the cardiovascular platforms. She also provided medical oversight and participated in preparing regulatory submissions and approvals in the U.S. and Europe.

In addition, Leadley has held managerial positions at several other life sciences companies based in California, including Advanced Stent Technologies in Pleasanton, Pulmonx in Palo Alto, and Quintiles/The Lewin Group in San Francisco.

Leadley will succeed David Hathaway, M.D.