New senior VP, general counsel named at pharmaceutical firm

Abbott announced the promotion of Laura J. Schumacher to senior vice president, secretary and general counsel, succeeding Jose M. de Lasa, who is retiring at the end of March.

In her new position Schumacher, 41, will report to Miles D. White, chairman and chief executive officer, Abbott.

Previously, Schumacher was vice president, secretary and deputy general counsel.

“Laura is an outstanding lawyer and has established herself as a key member of our leadership team,” said White. “Laura’s experience and counsel will serve the company well in this increasingly complex legal and business environment.”

Schumacher joined Abbott in 1990 as an attorney in the litigation department and held various positions, including divisional vice president, litigation. Prior to joining Abbott, Schumacher was an associate attorney with the law firm Schiff, Hardin & Waite in Chicago . She earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration/marketing from the University of Notre Dame and a juris doctorate from the University of Wisconsin at Madison .

“We thank Jose for a decade of outstanding service to Abbott,” said White. “Not only did he make significant contributions to the company, Jose was also a pioneer in community service. Among his achievements, he established a successful pro bono network of attorneys to help immigrants attain citizenship.”

Jose de Lasa, 63, joined Abbott in 1994 as senior vice president, secretary and general counsel. Prior to that he was vice president, secretary and associate general counsel for Bristol Myers-Squibb Co.

This article was prepared by Lab Business Weekly editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2005, Lab Business Weekly via IncRx.com.

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