They will work with the in-house team, led by Director of Corporate Affairs, Amanda Callaghan.

The ABPI represents research-based pharmaceutical companies, both large and small, in the UK. Luther will support the ABPI to communicate the contribution made by the pharmaceutical industry to the UK economy, but also its role in bringing life-saving and life-enhancing medicines to patients. The ABPI’s members supply 90 per cent of all medicines used by the NHS, and are researching and developing 90 per cent of the current medicines pipeline.

Luther will support the ABPI in its work to communicate the importance and value of innovation, particularly in relation to research and development; encourage greater uptake of and access to medicines; and to ensure a fair price for medicines in the UK.

Amanda Callaghan, Director of Corporate Affairs for the ABPI, said:

"The ABPI has a challenging agenda in today's dynamic political and economic environment. We are investing in our ability to successfully represent our members and making substantial changes in our approach to communications and public affairs. The team is delighted to have Luther Pendragon alongside to offer strategic insight into the issues we are facing."

Simon Whale, Managing Director at Luther Pendragon, said:

“There couldn’t be a more interesting time to be working with the ABPI. NHS reforms and a changing commercial environment mean that the pharmaceutical industry’s issues are at the top of the political agenda. We’ll be working to ensure that the industry is joined up in its public affairs, from the sharp end of politics to partnership with the NHS.”

ENDS

Media enquiries

ABPI Press Office
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7747 1410 or +44 (0) 20 7747 1441
Mobile: +44 (0) 7850 312064 or +44 (0) 7808 641811  
Email: pressoffice@abpi.org.uk     

or

Sam Bevans
Associate Director, Luther Pendragon
Tel: +44 (0)20 7618 9100
Email: sambevans@luther.co.uk  

Notes to editors

The ABPI represents innovative research-based biopharmaceutical companies, large, medium and small, leading an exciting new era of biosciences in the UK. 

Our industry, a major contributor to the economy of the UK, brings life-saving and life-enhancing medicines to patients. Our members supply 90 per cent of all medicines used by the NHS, and are researching and developing 90 per cent of the current medicines pipeline, ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of helping patients prevent and overcome diseases. 

We are the Government recognised body negotiating the pricing of branded medicines on behalf of the entire industry. Working with our Research Affiliate Members, we promote the UK as a destination of choice for international life sciences investment.