First Manhattan Company (FMC) increased pressure in its proxy fight with Vivus Inc, an obesity drug manufacturer. FMC said that it went through advanced discussions about the replacement of the current Vivus CEO. This will take place once FMC prevails to gain control in the company's board.

In a filing with US regulators, First Manhattan Company said that it has already hired recruiters. The move was to identify potential candidates who are experienced in the pharmaceutical industry. This would make it easier to identify people who are qualified for the CEO position.

FMC has recommended six candidates that it hoped to win a seat on the VIvus board. This will be decided during the shareholders' meeting next month. FMC also said that it would take necessary steps to change the leadership in the company given the replacement for CEO prevailed.

FMC senior managing director Sam Colin and a Vivus board nominee stated that its recommended directors have garnered support from other Vivus shareholders. Names were not dropped during a telephone interview to Colin.