Vertex isn’t lying down and waiting for Incivek to become obsolete, either. Vertex is developing an all-oral hep-C therapy of its own, known as VX-222, that’s being tested in combination with Incivek. Interim results released in July show that the combination could be an effective therapy for treating the most common genotype 1 hep-C patients in as few as 12 weeks and no more than 24 weeks.
A step above his peers
As you can see, Vertex is having no problem holding its own and introducing new and revolutionary therapies in multiple areas of focus. What often gets overlooked is that Jeffrey Leiden and Vertex do a phenomenal job of taking care of their employees and in giving back to their surrounding communities.
If you’re looking for a fun and innovative job in the health-care industry, landing a job with Vertex will net you a minimum of four paid weeks of vacation from day one! In addition to the typical perks we see at most well-run companies (e.g., health and dental benefits), the company’s Massachusetts locations offer on-site fitness centers. Companywide, Vertex offers quarterly health education seminars and offers on-site flu shots. Vertex also recognizes an outstanding employee each year with the Outstanding Research Award. The winner, which receives the award for “contributing to a solution of a critical scientific problem,” receives a whopping $10,000.
Vertex maintains a key position as a philanthropist within its communities as well. In Boston, it has developed a partnership with two public schools to help support educational activities in advance placement courses. When its new corporate headquarters being built in Boston is complete, it’ll allow students from these participating schools to conduct scientific projects alongside Vertex’s lead scientists. Many of the company’s employees also participate in community volunteer programs.
Two thumbs up
Vertex may be unprofitable at the moment, but it’s making some very smart moves from the viewpoint of shareholders. Both its FDA-approved drugs, as well as its developing pipeline, make it a very attractive investment. CEO Jeffrey Leiden has played a good part in keeping Vertex’s employees, improving its surrounding communities, and enriching the pockets of shareholders. For that, I give Mr. Leiden two emphatic thumbs up!
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The article This Is One Incredible CEO originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Sean Williams.
Fool contributor Sean Williams has no material interest in any companies mentioned in this article. He loves giving credit when credit is due. You can follow him on CAPS under the screen name TMFUltraLong, track every pick he makes under the screen name TrackUltraLong, and check him out on Twitter, where he goes by the handle @TMFUltraLong.Motley Fool newsletter services have recommended buying shares of Vertex Pharmaceuticals and Gilead Sciences.
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