The plant biotechnology company 22nd Century Group has hired John D. Pritchard as Vice President of Regulatory Science, who formerly worked as the Head of Regulatory Science for Imperial Brands, UK, according to a company press release.

The company said that Pritchard would lead the company’s global regulatory and compliance activities. In the statement, the company added that Pritchard would be involved in working with the FDA in support of the company’s Modified Risk Tobacco Product (MRTP) application for Very Low Nicotine (VLN) cigarettes and the planned rule by the FDA to require the reduction of the nicotine content of all cigarettes sold in the US. In addition to that, he would be responsible for overseeing the company’s initiatives with foreign governments that are interested in using the company’s VLN tobacco in their countries.
Pritchard served in key management roles in product stewardship, compliance, research, and regulatory departments for over 12 years at Imperial Brands.
Henry Sicignano, III, President and CEO of 22nd Century Group commented on Pritchard, saying, “John’s knowledge and experience will be invaluable to the company’s efforts to engage lawmakers, public health officials, and FDA scientists in our mission to make VLN cigarettes the world’s first MRTP… and, even more importantly, to facilitate the FDA rule to make all cigarettes sold in the United States minimally or non-addictive. What’s more, John will spearhead our important discussions with foreign governments that are interested in bringing to market our proprietary Very Low Nicotine Content tobacco in their countries.”
Pritchard commented on his new role, saying, “I am delighted with the opportunity to join the 22nd Century team and I look forward to working with a company whose mission is to reduce the harm caused by smoking.”