LONDON, May 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

The Marken Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Wesley P. Wheeler, MBA as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Wheeler succeeds Gerard Barba, who will remain the Chairman of the Marken Board of Directors.

Marken's Board and executive management team have sought to add an executive such as Mr. Wheeler for his depth of experience in the life science industry as well as a strong background in logistics to further strengthen market leadership and maintain Marken's solid growth path.

Prior to joining Marken, Wes held the title of President and CEO of Patheon Inc., a top contract manufacturing services company. Wes was also a former President of Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, and has previously held senior executive roles of increasing responsibility in manufacturing, marketing and engineering at GlaxoSmithKline, plc. Preceding his 22 year career in pharmaceuticals, Mr. Wheeler had a successful 12 year career at ExxonMobil. He holds a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Masters of Business Administration.

"As the nature of biopharmaceutical R&D changes, well controlled clinical supply chains will be a significant factor in the success of key life science companies and the industries that support them. The Board and I feel that Wes can bring his experience from the drug manufacturing, biotechnology and traditional pharmaceutical industries to augment an already strong management team and continue Marken's growth," said Gerard Barba, Marken's Chairman.

Mr. Khawar Mann, managing partner, APAX LLP., said: "We are delighted that Wes has agreed to join us at Marken. His operations background and successful track record in the pharmaceutical industry will give us the tools we need to continue building Marken's portfolio of services and geographies, and thus realize our greatest potential as a leading logistics services provider."

About Marken

Founded in 1980, Marken is focused on supporting the logistics of life Science companies. They manage the global collection, transportation, storage and distribution of specimens and clinical trial supplies. Additionally through their depot network, Marken supports regional storage and distribution of life science materials. Marken's team members and network of facilities bridge the distance between patients and the essential resources of life science companies.

http://www.marken.com

SOURCE Marken