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The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), the world’s largest science and public advocacy organization for biotech companies, announced a leadership update and the appointment of an interim CEO.
Dr. McMurry-Heath steps down
Dr. Michelle McMurry-Heath, who served as BIO’s President and CEO since June 2020, is stepping down from her position, effective October 11, 2022.
She will continue to “serve as Advisor to the Executive Committee, providing advice and assistance on key BIO initiatives” through the end of the year.
Expressing gratitude to Dr. McMurry-Heath for her service, Ted W. Love, M.D., President and CEO of Global Blood Therapeutics and Vice-Chair of BIO’s Executive Committee and Board, said, “Dr. McMurry-Heath has earned widespread admiration and recognition as a voice for the biotech industry, broadening awareness of key industry imperatives, such as supporting life-saving biotech innovation and overcoming the challenges of COVID-19, and advancing initiatives to increase diversity and inclusivity across the biotech industry.”
Rachel King appointed interim CEO
Rachel King, co-founder and former CEO of GlycoMimetics, Inc., has agreed to serve as interim President and CEO.
“I am deeply committed to the mission and vision of BIO. Together, we are going to continue to tackle important policy issues related to health, agriculture, and the environment. The strategy of BIO remains on track,” said King in a separate statement.
King, a previous Chair of the BIO Board, is a highly experienced biotech executive who has served in large pharmaceutical organizations as well as an entrepreneur who co-founded her own biotech company. In addition to her role at GlycoMimetics, King has worked at Novartis, Genetic Therapy Inc., and other companies.
“We look forward to working together with Rachel and the staff at BIO to continue important efforts that support innovation for people and patients in all aspects of biotechnology from food and agriculture to healthcare,” said Paul Hastings, President and CEO of Nkarta Therapeutics and Chair of BIO’s Executive Committee and Board.
In the meantime, BIO will conduct a search for a full-time successor.
Watch BIO’s January 2020 interview with Rachel King, where she discussed the GlycoMimetics technology and the importance of supporting biotech innovation:
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPCoT_O4gkA[/embedyt]
