These strategic hires reinforce AOP Health’s ambition to emerge as a global player in the field of rare and complex diseases. With extensive international experience and a track record of success, the newly appointed leaders bring the knowledge, expertise, and vision needed to fuel sustainable growth.
Melissa Fellner appointed Vice President Global Brands
With a background in science and broad experience in commercialization, Melissa Fellner has held senior leadership roles in one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. At AOP Health, she contributes deep marketing and strategic know-how to support the company’s international expansion.
Melissa Fellner, Vice President Global Brands: At AOP Health, I see a rare combination of expertise, purpose, and patient focus. It’s the ideal environment to build strong teams and deliver meaningful growth – for the business and to make a difference for the patients we serve.
Fellner will lead the Global Brands, driving lifecycle strategies for the company’s portfolio and accelerating international brand integration across functions and markets. Her leadership – based on transparent communication, strategic focus, and empowerment – is geared toward building resilient, high-performing teams that actively accelerate the company’s growth.
Alexander Kraft takes over as Vice President Technical Operations
With a PhD in biology and over two decades of experience in pharmaceutical operations, Alexander Kraft brings both scientific rigor and organizational foresight to AOP Health. Drawing on senior roles in pharma production and quality across diverse settings, he now strengthens and evolves the company’s operational infrastructure as it scales internationally.
Alexander Kraft, Vice President Technical Operations: AOP Health is at the tipping point in its transformation into a globally aligned company. My role is to build the systems and standards that make sustainable growth possible while maintaining the company’s agility and sense of purpose.
In his new role, Kraft will oversee supply chain, quality and manufacturing (packaging) operations – functions essential to international expansion. For Kraft, Technical Operations is a strategic engine that turns ambition into execution.
Andreas di Egidio becomes Vice President Business Development & Alliance Management
A pharmaceutical chemist by training, Andreas di Egidio joins AOP Health with over 20 years of experience in business development, supported by a global network in pharma innovation. His mission: to drive growth through strategic partnerships and transformative transactions.
Di Egidio brings deep experience in international partnering, operational leadership, and stakeholder management. He values diversity, clarity, and decisiveness – qualities that will be pivotal as AOP Health expands its global presence, with a strong focus on the US market.
Andreas di Egidio, Vice President Business Development & Alliance Management: Business development is not a department, it’s the company’s growth engine. It’s about identifying the right partners and strategic assets, leading cross-functional teams, and providing clear direction amid uncertainty – all with the goal of delivering value to patients.
Supporting a bold vision for the future
The appointment of Fellner, Kraft, and di Egidio marks a pivotal moment in AOP Health’s transition. Strengthening the leadership team is a key step in building the operational, scientific, and commercial foundations for long-term success – while staying true to the company’s founding principles of Needs. Science. Trust.
About AOP Health
AOP Health is a global enterprise group with roots in Austria, where the headquarters of AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals GmbH ("AOP Health") is located. Since 1996, the AOP Health Group has been dedicated to developing innovative solutions to address unmet medical needs, particularly in the fields of rare diseases and intensive care medicine. The group has established itself internationally as a pioneer in integrated therapy solutions and operates worldwide through subsidiaries, representations, and a strong network of partners. With the claim "Needs. Science. Trust." the AOP Health Group emphasizes its commitment to research and development, as well as the importance of building relationships with physicians and patient advocacy groups to ensure that the needs of these stakeholders are reflected in all aspects of the company’s actions.