Christoph Koenen EVP, Chief Medical Officer Otsuka

Motivated each day by the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients, Christoph leads Otsuka’s global R&D strategy that includes the entire clinical development process from first in human to late stage development. As a physician, his compassion for patients is a necessary spark for innovation in clinical trial management, understanding that the greatest benefit of a successful launch will be patients’ access to a novel treatment. Christoph is equally passionate about interacting with regulatory authorities globally as well as ensuring safety and access for patients on a local level.

As Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Christoph also oversees Medical Affairs, which consists of medical strategy and field medical teams, bridging the research and commercial organizations. For Christoph, Otsuka’s collaborative and inclusive culture is at the core of everything, guiding strategy and execution to develop treatment options to help improve health worldwide.

Before joining Otsuka in 2019, Christoph was Head of Cardiovascular Medicine and Development at Bristol-Meyers Squibb (BMS), helping to develop its next generation of cardiovascular medicines. Prior to his role at BMS, Christoph worked for Novo Nordisk in various medical and development functions in Europe, as well as in the US. Christoph's medical background has informed his ability to combine scientific innovation with a strategic approach to business development opportunities, regulatory navigation, and global patient access solutions.

Christoph received his medical degree from Ruprecht-Karls University School of Medicine in Heidelberg, Germany, in 1994. He also holds an MBA from Schiller International University, and is board certified in internal medicine and diabetology.