PALO ALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 26, 2001--Varian Medical Systems (NYSE:VAR) today announced the appointment of John "Andy" Anderson Thorson II to vice president of New Business Development. Thorson, 39, will be a primary driver of the company's strategic plans for growth through acquisition of businesses that complement the company's expertise in cancer care and diagnostic imaging subsystems. He will report to Varian Medical Systems President and CEO Richard M. Levy.
"Andy Thorson is uniquely equipped to manage our new business development and acquisitions which are key elements in our strategy for growth," said Levy. "He brings considerable experience in originating corporate acquisitions and joint-venture projects in the U.S., Canada, and Asia. He has proven capabilities in evaluating new business opportunities in a global context. We expect that he will help the company to build a solid foundation for future growth."
Thorson brings to Varian over 18 years of international experience in corporate new business development, merchant banking, private equity advisory, and start-ups. Prior to joining Varian, Thorson was a partner and director of Pegasus Capital, a Singapore-based boutique merchant bank with clients in the technology, chemicals, cement, property, services, and banking sectors across Southeast Asia. Previously, as assistant vice president and then as general manager for Southeast Asia with Ciments Francais, he pioneered Asian operations for a $3 billion global manufacturing concern and managed U.S. and Canadian strategic planning projects.
Thorson holds an MBA in Finance and Strategic Planning from the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business and an AB in International Relations from Stanford University.
Varian Medical Systems, Inc., (NYSE:VAR) of Palo Alto, is the world's leading manufacturer of integrated cancer therapy systems as well as X-ray tubes and flat-panel sensors for imaging in medical, scientific, and industrial applications. Varian Medical Systems employs approximately 2,400 people and reported sales of $690 million in its most recent fiscal year ended Sept. 29, 2000. For more information, visit www.varian.com.
CONTACT: Varian Medical Systems
Spencer Sias, 650/424-5782