# Ne oldu?

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has announced two key leadership changes effective later this year. Melanie Carr has been assigned Deputy Executive Director duties as of 1 August 2026, following the retirement of Ivo Claassen. Franck Fourès has been appointed as the new Head of the Veterinary Medicines Division, joining EMA on 1 September 2026 from his role as Director of the French Agency for Veterinary Medicinal Products (ANMV).

# Ayrıntılar

According to the official EMA press release, Melanie Carr transitions into the Deputy Executive Director position, a role that supports the Executive Director in the agency's overall strategic direction and operations. Her appointment comes as part of a planned succession following Claassen's decision to retire. Meanwhile, Franck Fourès brings extensive experience from the French regulatory landscape. Having led ANMV, he is now tasked with overseeing the Veterinary Medicines Division at the EMA, which is responsible for the evaluation and supervision of veterinary medicinal products across the European Union.

# Neden önemli?

These appointments are significant as they shape the future leadership of the EMA during a period of continued focus on veterinary medicine safety and antimicrobial resistance. The Veterinary Medicines Division plays a central role in the authorization of veterinary drugs and the implementation of the EMA's animal health strategy. Having a new head with direct experience from a national competent authority is expected to strengthen the connection between national and European-level regulatory decisions.

# Sırada ne var?

The EMA has indicated that further updates regarding the composition of the new leadership team may follow. Stakeholders in the veterinary and human pharmaceutical sectors are advised to monitor official EMA communications for any additional changes or announcements regarding committee compositions and other managerial roles in the coming months.