David Simmons joined PPD in 2012 as chairman and chief executive officer. In this role, he leads the company’s global workforce of more than 24,000 employees, across 46 countries, in the design and execution of drug development programs on behalf of biopharmaceutical clients.

Under his leadership, PPD’s total enterprise value has tripled, the number of employees has doubled and the company has received numerous accolades. In 2017, Simmons was named the recipient of the Louis V. Gerstner, Jr., Excellence Award by The Carlyle Group for exemplifying excellence in leading a Carlyle portfolio company.

Simmons came to PPD following 15 years with Pfizer Inc. In his most recent position with Pfizer, he was president of the emerging markets and established products business units.

Simmons serves on the board of directors for Albany Molecular Research, Inc. (AMRI), which provides a complete suite of solutions in discovery, development, analytical services, API manufacturing and drug product to the biopharmaceutical industry. He also serves on the board of directors for Edelman Financial Engines, America’s largest independent investment advisor, which Barron’s ranked #1 for quality in 2018.

Simmons is active in philanthropic endeavors, which includes serving as a trustee of the Linsly School in Wheeling, West Virginia, and a director for First Tee of Greater Wilmington.

Simmons earned a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics and industrial management from Carnegie Mellon University.