The International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) has appointed Thomas (Tom) B. Hartman as the organization’s new permanent CEO and President, effective 1 June 2020. He will succeed Tim Howard, who served as the organization’s acting CEO and president after John Bournas, the former CEO and president, stepped down from his position effective Jan. 8, 2020.

Hartman has a history of success in the pharmaceutical industry, rising to the role of Vice President of GMP Operations, Biopharm CMC, for GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). His extensive executive leadership experience and strong commitment to product quality, includes all aspects of biopharmaceutical CMC supply chain management. Most recently his team established manufacturing capability for the supply of viral vectors, enabling GSK’s cell and gene therapy platform. 

“The recent pandemic highlights the need for effective platforms for collaboration to resolve complex industry challenges,” said Hartman. “ISPE and its more than 18,000 Members are positioned well to support the entire pharmaceutical industry in the development and manufacturing of transformational medicines for patients. It is a true privilege to be given the opportunity to play a significant role in the industry, and I look forward to working with the ISPE Board, staff, worldwide Membership, and all industry stakeholders to further advance and build on ISPE's success over the past 40 years.”

Hartman, who holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Villanova University and an MBA from Eastern University, is experienced in all aspects of biopharmaceutical CMC functions including cell banking, materials management, manufacturing including microbial and mammalian expression systems, and support functions including facility monitoring, engineering, capital project management, validation, and quality control, often leading negotiations with international external supply CMO/CRO’s. 

Prior to joining GSK in 2001, he held multiple engineering and operations roles with a major US-based chemical manufacturer, including a five-year expatriate role in the Netherlands and the UK, culminating with responsibilities as head of engineering at a large chemical facility. In his career, Tom has successfully conducted business in multiple countries including the US, UK, East/West Europe, China, Korea, Singapore, India, and Mexico.  

Hartman has been a Member of ISPE since 2001 and was elected to the ISPE Board of Directors in 2013, most recently serving as the 2019–2020 Vice Chair.