SmithKline Beecham
Executive Summary
Jerry Karabelas becomes VP-marketing of the company's U.S. prescription drug business effective June 27. Karabelas originally joined SmithKline in 1982, eventually becoming a group VP for gastrointestinal products. He left the firm in December 1989 to become CEO of Cellular Transplants Inc., a Providence, Rhode Island-based biotech firm. In his new position at SmithKline Beecham, Karabelas will replace Roger Ross, a 25-year SmithKline veteran who has decided to leave the company. The VP-marketing position currently reports to Fred Kyle, who heads U.S. pharmaceutical operations. However, the company is seeking a replacement for Kyle, who was recently given overall responsibility for worldwide manufacturing.