Zerhouni will report directly to Christopher Viehbacher, CEO of Sanofi-aventis, and join the executive committee and the management committee.
Sanofi-aventis said that since Zerhouni appointment as scientific advisor to Christopher Viehbacher in February 2009, Zerhouni has been instrumental in redesigning the R&D model to foster increased innovation, the first pillar of the Group’s strategy.
Zerhouni said that as an adviser, he is honored to be given the opportunity to join them in making sure that, here at Sanofi-aventis, they discover and develop the important therapies to alleviate the pain and suffering of patients around the world.
Sanofi-aventis CEO Christopher Viehbacher said that he has had the privilege of working with Elias for a long time.
"Through his vast experience and visionary approach, he has provided excellent advice and insight and has been central in implementing what is now one of the most promising R&D models in healthcare," Viehbacher said.