Mumbai: Pfizer has appointed Mr Aijaz Tobaccowalla as its managing director in India. He will succeed Mr Kewal Handa, who earlier this year, announced his intention to retire in August 2012.

"With more than 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Aijaz, "Jazz" is a seasoned leader who will continue to lead Pfizer India through this exciting period. His leadership experience, demonstrated versatility, and successful management in a constantly changing business environment, make him the ideal leader for Pfizer India", said Ahmet Goksun, Regional President, Emerging Markets Europe, Russia, India and Turkey (EURIT), a part of the Emerging Markets Business Unit.

Jazz joined Wyeth in 1991 and since then has held a number of positions in Business Technology as a member of the leadership teams of Pfizer WBB, R&D, and PCBU. In 2009 he was appointed to his most recent role, leading Business Technology for all biopharmaceutical business units. Jazz has a Masters in Business Administration from Stern School of Business, New York University and an undergraduate degree in Computer Science and Mathematics.

"We thank Kewal for his many contributions at Pfizer. Under his leadership, Pfizer India became the first multi-national pharmaceutical company to enter the branded generics market, and became a leader in exploring unique partnerships with the government to increase market access," Ahmet added.