Perth, Australia: PharmAust Limited (ASX: PAA & PAAO), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Michael Thum, PhD, as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Dr Thurn will assume the role on 1 September 2023.
Michael brings broad experience in drug discovery, development, regulation and commercialisation, acquired through leadership roles in research organisations and industry. His previous responsibilities have included leading a variety of US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Investigational New Drug (IND) applications across a range of therapeutic areas and the evaluation of drugs and vaccines for registration in Australia.
Michael has also been responsible for the execution of Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials and business development activities across animal and human health products. He possesses strong entrepreneurial, leadership and management skills that have seen him achieve outstanding results over a 25 year career in the biotechnology industry.
With the assistance of the executive search firm Williams Hall, an international executive recruitment process was started earlier this year. The Board was delighted by the quality of candidates and immense interest in the position. Michael’s combination of enthusiasm and overall experience with drug regulation, clinical development, shareholder relations with retail and institutional investors and capital raising was outstanding.
“I am thrilled that this robust and competitive process has culminated in identifying a biotechnology leader of Michael’s calibre,” commented PharmAust Chairman Dr Roger Aston. “As we look to the future the Board is very confident Michael will continue to build momentum on the positive interim results from the ongoing Phase 1 Motor Neurone Disease study to increase market awareness and create significant value for our shareholders. We look forward to working with Michael.”
“This is an incredible opportunity to join PharmAust at this significant point in the Company’s journey,” commented incoming CEO Dr Michael Thurn. “We have an exciting and maturing animal health and human pipeline, an excellent Board and world-class clinical advisors and collaborators to draw knowledge. I look forward to working with the Board and the team to advance PharmAust’s product pipeline.”
Dr Roger Aston will remain Chairman of the Board but will transition into a non-executive role assisting with his 40 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry.
Leave a Reply