• Dr. Cynthia Verst-Brasch has been named vice president, global medical affairs, marketing and communications, at Kendle International Inc. Verst-Brasch has executive leadership responsibility for Kendle's late-phase pharmaceutical product development service offerings. She joined Kendle in 2002 from Procter & Gamble Pharmaceuticals, North American Medical and Technical Affairs. She holds a doctorate and a bachelor of science degree in pharmacy from the University of Cincinnati, a master of Science from the University of Illinois and a bachelor of science in biological sciences from Northern Kentucky University.

• Robert Onieal has been appointed chief operating officer at Deaconess Hospital. Onieal has more than 20 years of hospital administration experience. He comes to Deaconess from Mission-St. Joseph's Health System in Asheville, N.C. He is responsible for developing services and managing the day-to-day direction of all hospital operating units.

• The following have been named management team at the newest Red Lobster restaurant in Forest Park: Scott Renner has been named general manager; Katie Jostworth and Cindy Gardner named culinary managers; Mindy Gerschutz, service manager; and David Cunningham, beverage and hospitality manager.

• A nationally and internationally recognized expert in education, public policy, and work force development, Donna Alvarado, president of Aguila International, has joined KnowledgeWorks Foundation's board of directors.

• Todd Wheatley has joined the investment firm of Oppenheimer and Co. Inc. as an associate vice president of investments in the downtown Cincinnati office. Wheatley was previously with Smith Barney as a financial adviser since 1990. He holds a degree in economics from the University of Cincinnati.

Have news of promotions, awards, honors, retirements or company openings or relocations? Send information to Shirley Dees, Enquirer Business News, 312 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202.