Kevin W. Sharer will retire from his roles as chairman and chief executive officer of Amgen in 2012. He held both those roles since 2000 and has been at Amgen for 20 years of service to Amgen. Mr. Sharer will step down as CEO effective May 23, 2012, and remain as chairman until December 31, 2012. Robert Bradway, currently president and chief operating officer, will replace Mr. Sharer in both roles.

In addition, Roger Perlmutter will retire as executive vice president of R&D effective February 12, 2012. Dr. Perlmutter will then work with Amgen as a consultant to aid in the transition for one year. Dr. Perlmutter joined Amgen in 2000. Sean Harper will take Dr. Perlmutter’s role, reporting to Bob Bradway. Dr. Harper will be responsible for Amgen’s global R&D functions.

Bob Bradway joined Amgen in 2006 as a vice president in operations.  He was appointed chief financial officer in 2007, and was named president and chief operating officer in 2010.  Prior to joining Amgen, Mr. Bradway worked for 19 years with Morgan Stanley.

Dr. Harper joined Amgen in 2002, and has held leadership roles in early development, medical sciences and global regulatory and safety. His current role is senior vice president, global development, and he serves as chief medical officer for Amgen. Prior to joining Amgen, Dr. Harper worked for six years at Merck Research Laboratories.  

“Today Amgen announces its next generation of leaders as we pass the reins to Bob Bradway and Sean Harper,” said Mr. Sharer. “Bob and Sean have demonstrated sound judgment, delivered consistently excellent operating results and provided strong leadership in a variety of challenging roles. Amgen will be in good hands. I would particularly like to thank Roger Perlmutter for his eleven years of service. He has been an outstanding head of R&D, and his accomplishments have benefited millions of patients.  In the months ahead, we will focus on making the transition to Bob and Sean seamless.”