EMD Serono, an affiliate of Germany-based Merck, has named James Hoyes president. He will be responsible for driving the strategic direction of the U.S. commercial organization as well as managing the day-to-day business of the U.S. affiliate of Merck. Hoyes will also serve as a member of the executive management board for Merck Serono, the global pharmaceuticals division of Merck.

Hoyes previously served as chief commercial officer for EMD Serono and also led the neurology franchise as vice president of marketing.

Prior to joining EMD Serono, he held a variety of commercial roles of increasing responsibilities at Elan, Sanofi and Sterling Drug. He also has extensive experience working in a partnership environment with other biopharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer, BMS, UCB and Wyeth.