MALVERN, PA — In a strategic move aimed at expanding its global footprint, Ocugen, Inc. (NASDAQ: OCGN), a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing gene therapies, has welcomed Bob Smith, former Senior Vice President of Global Gene Therapy Business at Pfizer, to its Business Advisory Board (BAB).
The addition of Smith, who led Pfizer’s global gene therapy business for nearly eight years, could potentially advance Ocugen’s ambition of becoming a leading player in the gene therapy arena. His vast experience in alliance management, business development, commercial, corporate strategy, mergers and acquisitions, and research and development executive leadership roles could prove invaluable in the company’s pursuit of business collaborations, partnerships, licensing opportunities, and public/private partnerships with governments worldwide.
Ocugen’s CEO, Dr. Shankar Musunuri, expressed confidence in Smith’s ability to drive the company’s business development activities. “Bob has the experience Ocugen needs to pursue business development activities with companies that have the size and scale to bring our gene therapies through to commercialization,” said Dr. Musunuri.
For investors, this development could signal a significant step in Ocugen’s growth strategy. The addition of a seasoned pharmaceutical executive like Smith could enhance the company’s business development capabilities and potentially accelerate its path to commercialization.
Smith’s appointment also demonstrates Ocugen’s commitment to building a robust advisory board, which already includes notable figures such as Connie Collingsworth, Senator Pat Toomey, Ambassador Joseph W. Westphal, Ph.D., and Dennis Carey, Ph.D. This diverse team of advisors will work alongside the Executive Leadership Team to strengthen Ocugen’s network across a variety of stakeholders.
As a leader in Pfizer’s gene therapy business, Smith was instrumental in developing and implementing Pfizer’s end-to-end, enterprise-wide efforts to become an industry leader in gene therapy. His expertise could potentially help Ocugen replicate that success.
“I am impressed with the science behind Ocugen’s modifier gene therapy programs and look forward to introducing this novel approach to potential business partners,” said Smith.
Ultimately, Bob Smith’s appointment to Ocugen’s BAB could be a game-changer for the company as it seeks to expand its global reach and commercialize its gene therapies. As the company continues to make strategic moves, investors will be keeping a keen eye on its progress.
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