Pfizer Taps Novartis Veteran Jeffrey Legos to Lead Oncology R&D Efforts

Jeffrey Legos, Ph.D., has been appointed as Pfizer's new chief oncology officer26.

Legos joins Pfizer from Novartis, where he served as executive vice president and global head of oncology and hematology development6.

In his new role, Legos will guide Pfizer's cancer R&D efforts, ranging from preclinical to late-stage clinical work6.

Legos replaces interim Chief Oncology Officer Roger Dansey, M.D., who is retiring6.

This appointment is part of Pfizer's ongoing leadership restructuring following its $43 billion acquisition of Seagen in 20236.

Pfizer aims to have at least eight blockbuster cancer drugs by 2030, focusing on breast cancer, genitourinary cancer, blood cancer, and thoracic cancers1.

The company plans to double the number of patients treated with its innovative cancer medicines from about 2.3 million in 2023 to 4.6 million by 20301.

Pfizer is working to increase the proportion of biologics in its revenue mix from 6% to 65% by 20301.

The appointment of Legos aligns with Pfizer's 2025 priority to improve R&D productivity with a sharpened focus, particularly in oncology5.

This leadership change comes as Pfizer continues to execute its strategy to enhance its position in the oncology field and drive breakthrough innovations in cancer treatment15.

Sources:

1. https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/pfizer-fleshes-out-oncology-strategy-targeting-8-blockbuster-cancer-drugs-2030

2. https://firstwordpharma.com/story/5933164

5. https://insights.pfizer.com/jpm-2025/

6. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/pfizer-taps-ex-novartis-leader-helm-cancer-rd-work