US expansion in focus as BioInvent welcomes new SVP
BioInvent has appointed Ashley Robinson as Senior Vice President of Strategy & Finance. Robinson will play a key role in strengthening the company’s strategic positioning and expanding its presence in the United States, a key market for the company’s growth ambitions. BioStock reached out to Robinson for a comment.
BioInvent is dedicated to discovering and developing first-in-class immunomodulatory antibodies for cancer therapy.
The two lead drug candidates, BI-1808 and BI-1206, are currently under evaluation in phase I/IIa clinical studies. In addition, the company’s pipeline features three early-stage clinical assets—BI-1607, BI-1910, and BT-001—which hold potential as therapies for various types of cancer.
BioInvent targets US growth with key appointment
BioInvent recently appointed Ashley Robinson as Senior Vice President Strategy & Finance. In this capacity, he will strengthen BioInvent’s efforts, presence, and strategy in the US. Robinson brings over 25 years of experience in capital markets and corporate strategy, with a track record in the biotechnology sector. Most recently, he served as Managing Director at LifeSci Advisors, where he established a Boston office back in 2017. His prior roles include senior and partner positions at Guggenheim Securities, Leerink Partners and Lehman Brothers.
BioInvent’s CEO Martin Welschof commented on the appointment:
“We are delighted to welcome Ashley as our SVP Strategy & Finance and we look forward to benefiting from his deep experience in healthcare financing and strategy,” said Martin Welschof, Chief Executive Officer of BioInvent. “Based in Boston, Ashley will spearhead our U.S. expansion as part of the strategic development of our company and the continued advancement of our unique immuno-oncology pipeline.”
A pivotal stage for BioInvent
The appointment comes as BioInvent enters a pivotal phase in its development. While timing may not be critical, having seasoned expertise represent the company in the US could prove invaluable as it prepares for significant data releases from three of its six antibody programs by the end of 2024. With seven additional readouts anticipated in 2025 across four clinical assets, these data releases — combined with the new appointment — may drive positive investor sentiment and unlock partnership opportunities in the U.S.
Comments from the SVP
We spoke with Ashley Robinson to better understand BioInvent’s planned initiatives and long-term objectives for the U.S. in the years ahead.
What inspired you to take on the role of SVP Strategy & Finance?
— Joining BioInvent represents a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in immuno-oncology. By leveraging the company’s robust pipeline, innovative approach to target discovery, and commitment to addressing unmet medical needs, BioInvent is achieving meaningful progress toward improving the outcomes for cancer patients worldwide. I am excited about contributing to a team that is pushing the boundaries of cancer treatment and I see significant growth opportunities for the company, especially in the U.S.
How can your previous experience contribute to the new position at BioInvent?
— My background encompasses a blend of strategic financial leadership, investment banking, and corporate development in the biotech sector. This experience has honed my skills in value creation, financial transactions, and strategic relationships. At BioInvent, I will leverage this expertise to drive financial strategyand forge alliances that can amplify our impact and reach.
With multiple major data readouts anticipated over the next two years, what steps do you envision to attract U.S.-based investors and strategic partners?
— To attract U.S.-based investors and strategic partners, I plan to nurture the existing, and build new, relationships with key stakeholders in the U.S. biotech and investment communities. A key element is to highlight the unique value propositions and competitive advantages of BioInvent’s pipeline.
How will having a dedicated U.S. representative improve BioInvent’s ability to secure regional licensing agreements?
— As a dedicated U.S. representative, I will engage with local partners and capitalize on market opportunities. This allows for more effective communication and the development of tailored strategies to meet the specific needs and expectations of U.S. partners, which will be further enhanced by the presence of a U.S. entity.
On the topic of presence, how will you approach building BioInvent’s presence in key U.S. biotech hubs, whether physical or strategic?
— Building on BioInvent’s presence in the U.S. involves a strategic blend of physical and virtual initiatives. We will continue to participate in industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to increase our visibility and influence.
What are the key factors in ensuring that the upcoming data releases translate into tangible financial and strategic benefits for the company?
— We will continue to effectively communicate the significance and potential impact of the data to stakeholders, aligning data releases with strategic milestones and market opportunities as well as leveraging positive data to attract partnerships, licensing deals, and investment.
Finally, what will be your key priorities and goals for the next three years?
— My key priorities for the next three years include securing funding to support our pipeline and strategic initiatives. Strengthening our presence in the U.S. and other key markets.
— These initiatives will collectively ensure BioInvent’s sustained growth, financial health, and leadership in immuno-oncology.
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