Apposite Capital-backed Kelso Pharma is focused on bringing innovative, value-added, specialty medicines to international healthcare markets, providing products that improve the lives of patients in a cost-effective and ethical manner. The company is growing through a blend of company and product acquisitions, partnerships and organic growth internationally. Scotland-based, its assets currently consist of Stirling Anglian Pharmaceuticals; Velit Biopharma; and ALTURiX.

Mr Watson is one of the founding directors of Kelso Pharma, with more than 20 years’ experience in the life sciences sector.

He said: “After more than two decades in the sector – including many years working alongside members of the Kelso senior management team – it’s time for me to hand over the financial reins.

“I’m proud of the role I’ve played in helping to build Kelso to the position it occupies today and I wish the company and its fantastic team further success going forward.”

Mr King, who succeeds Mr Watson as CFO, has held a range of senior financial roles with ProStrakan Group PLC; Kyowa Kirin International; Grünenthal Meds; and, most recently, Noveeda. Consequently, he brings extensive financial expertise and understanding of the sector to the role, including in the key areas of M&A, product inlicensing and outlicensing and partnering.

Kelso Pharma CEO, Dr Tom Stratford, said: “Allan Watson has been a key player in Kelso Pharma’s growth and we will forever be grateful to Allan for his financial stewardship and significant contribution during his time with the company. He’s been a strong, wise colleague and a good friend.

“In Alan King we have an experienced and ambitious colleague who can pick up the financial baton for Kelso and I look forward to working with him as we continue to build on our ambitious growth plans.”

Mr King said: “I know the senior management team well and I have followed Kelso Pharma’s progress with great interest.

“It is a privilege to have been given this opportunity to play my part in the next chapter of the Kelso growth story as the company continues to deliver value-for-money specialty medicines for patients.”