Operators

Jerry Karabelas, currently executive vice-president for North America at SmithKline Beecham, is to head the global pharmaceutical operations of Swiss giant Novartis. Howard Pien will replace him at SKB. Meanwhile, Novartis has appointed Thomas Eberling to head its nutrition division, which makes Ovaltine, among other products.

CIA turns to drugs

Glaxo Wellcome technical director Joe Blaker has been elected president of the Chemical Industries Association. He will serve a two-year term.

Niche work if Oberst can get it

Deborah Oberst has been appointed vice president for technology at AlliedSignal's speciality chemicals business, focusing on growth opportunities in high-technology niches. She was previously business director of Arco Chemical's performance chemicals division.

Cranke goes East for Albright

Albright & Wilson has appointed Ray Cranke as vice-president responsible for technical matters in its Asia-Pacific region.

Boardman's the board man at RPR

Rick Boardman is to take on the role of senior vice-president and general counsel for Rhone-Poulenc Rorer. He replaces Richard Collier, who has moved to Pharmacia & Upjohn.

A tough Knut for Celanese

Knut Zeptner has been appointed president and chief executive of Celanese, Hoechst's US-based chemicals and acetate operation.

Pfeiffer looks after DuPont's dollars

DuPont has appointed Gary Pfeiffer as chief financial officer, replacing Kurt Landgraf, who is to move back to operations.