Aptimmune announces the addition of three new strategic account managers — Andy Wuethrich, Brian Konz and Andy Smythe — to the company’s swine division. All three will focus on launching the new Aptimmune autogenous porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome vaccine made with Barricade technology. They will also help grow the Aptimmune portfolio of swine vaccines and augment the company’s sales organization with experienced swine industry professionals.

Wuethrich has more than 23 years of experience in agriculture, split between animal health and grain merchandising. Prior to joining Aptimmune, he worked for several animal health companies, including Elanco Animal Health. He holds a bachelor of science degree in agriculture from Purdue University.

He will assist in the development and implementation of comprehensive sales strategies. He will partner with Aptimmune Technical Services in supporting customer initiatives and manage relationships with designated key account partners.

“Andy has a deep, broad level of agriculture and animal health knowledge and a proven track record for exceptional sales and service to swine producers. He will be a tremendous asset to Aptimmune and to our sales team,” says Aaron Gilbertie, CEO, Aptimmune Biologics.

Konz was a professional key account manager for Novartis/Elanco Animal Health before joining Aptimmune. For the past 11 years, he was responsible for the sales of all swine products to Elanco’s key accounts and large veterinary swine practices in the Upper Midwest. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University.

“Brian has a strong background managing large accounts in the animal health and livestock feed industries. His knowledge and past experience will further bolster Aptimmune’s growing sales force and help us to better serve the needs of our customers,” Gilbertie says.

Smythe worked the past two years for Novartis/Elanco Animal Health as a senior executive sales representative. He also has account management experience with Novartis Animal Health and PIC USA. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in pre-veterinary medicine from West Virginia University.

“Andy has been working professionally for large animal heal and biotechnology companies in the swine industry for more than 25 years, managing customer accounts and providing sales training to others. The Aptimmune sales team and our customers are certain to benefit from his knowledge of the swine industry and his customer-focused mindset,” says Gilbertie.

Aptimmune, based in Champaign, Ill., specializes in developing and marketing a portfolio of revolutionary mucosal vaccines that provide answers for the most costly viral diseases impacting the swine industry. Aptimmune’s first vaccines are focused on addressing two major viral respiratory pathogens, PRRS virus and influenza. To learn more, visit www.aptimmune.com.