MECHELEN: Galapagos NV (Euronext & NASDAQ: GLPG), a global biotechnology company focused on advancing cell therapies and transformative medicine, announced a strategic update Tuesday, including a re-evaluation of its previously planned corporate separation, a leadership transition, and changes to its Board of Directors.
The company originally announced on Jan. 8 its intention to separate into two publicly traded entities: Galapagos, which would advance novel cell therapies, and SpinCo, focused on building a pipeline of innovative medicines through strategic acquisitions. The separation, expected by mid-2025, was contingent on shareholder approval and customary conditions.
However, in light of regulatory and market developments, the Board of Directors has decided to reassess the separation plan and explore all strategic alternatives for its businesses, including cell therapy, to maximize resources for transformative business development transactions.
As part of its leadership changes, the Board appointed Henry Gosebruch as Chief Executive Officer of Galapagos and Executive Director, effective immediately. He succeeds Paul Stoffels, who announced his retirement in April 2025.
Gosebruch, previously named founding CEO of SpinCo, will now oversee the strategic evaluation process for Galapagos while leading efforts to build an innovative pipeline through business development initiatives.
Additionally, Jérôme Contamine, a Board member since April 2022 and formerly Lead Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Audit Committee, has been appointed Chair of the Board, succeeding Stoffels.
Stoffels will remain with Galapagos in an advisory capacity, assisting in the evaluation of strategic options for its cell therapy assets, including its flagship GLPG5101 program and decentralized cell therapy manufacturing platform.
“I am honored to have been appointed Chair of the Board of Galapagos,” Contamine said in a statement. “Paul has led with purpose and integrity, and the Board and I are extremely thankful for his leadership during this pivotal period. We are fully committed to supporting Henry in accelerating the building of an innovative portfolio while determining the best course for our cell therapy activities.”
Gosebruch expressed enthusiasm for his new role, saying, “Together with the Board, we will intensify our efforts to deliver value for all stakeholders. We are currently evaluating strategic options for our clinical programs and other assets. I look forward to working with Paul to find a value-maximizing alternative for the cell therapy business, including exploring mergers, divestitures, and out-licensing. In parallel, we will pursue transformative business development opportunities to build an innovative pipeline of differentiated medicines.”