Stiefel Laboratories Names First COO

Stiefel Laboratories

since 1994, is the new chief operating officer for the firm.

The COO post is a new one for Stiefel, which is based in Duluth and is opening a major research and development facility in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Thompson will also oversee operations at Stiefel subsidiaries Glades Pharmaceuticals and StoneBridge Pharma.

"My job is to lead from behind, not be in front," Thompson said in a statement. "This company is growing rapidly, and it is important that resources are allocated appropriately throughout the world to best serve the business and take advantage of our global footprint. I feel privileged to be a part of Stiefel's senior management team and participate in the expansion of new markets and introduction of new products."

Thompson has served as president of Glades Pharmaceuticals and as senior vice president for business services at Stiefel.

Stiefel, which was founded in 1847, focuses on skin-care products.

Stiefel Research Institute plans to invest more than $50 million, transfer its New York research and development site to RTP, and create 200 jobs.