Pfizer named Kathryn Metcalfe VP, corporate reputation and policy communication – a new post in which she’s tasked with building the company’s reputation and communicating Pfizer’s stance on policy issues worldwide.

“It’s an exciting time to be at Pfizer,” said Metcalfe in a statement. “There is a tangible spirit of change at Pfizer and a strong commitment to the communications function as a strategic driver.”

Metcalfe previously headed communications for Novartis in the US. She joined Novartis in 2004 from the New York office of PR agency Cohn & Wolfe, where she was CEO.

Chief communications officer Sally Sussman called Metcalfe: “a seasoned professional with a proven track record in strategic communications and more than 15 years experience driving significant growth for leading healthcare brands.”