Alzprotect strengthens its management team with the appointment of Dr. Olivier Defert as Chief Operating Officer
Lille (France), on 6th March 2023, Alzprotect, a biotechnology company focused on developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, announced the appointment of Dr. Olivier Defert as Chief Operating Officer (COO). Dr. Defert brings over 20 years of experience in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries, having held leadership positions in several companies. He is a highly qualified medicinal chemist who has held leadership positions at BioVersys SAS and Tarsier Pharma, among others. He founded Olea MedChem Consulting, where he served as CEO from 2009 to 2021. In 2010, he co-founded the company Amakem NV, where he managed CMC, IND-enabling studies, and medicinal chemistry as Director of Preclinical Development. He has managed several research programs and collaborations with academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and investors. His expertise in medicinal chemistry, CMC, preclinical development, and project management will be essential in advancing Alzprotect's drug development programs. The appointment of Dr. Defert as COO underscores Alzprotect's commitment to building a world-class team and advancing its mission to develop innovative therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. Alzprotect is funded by Xerys Invest.
Dr. Philippe Verwaerde, CEO and President of Alzprotect, stated, "We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Olivier Defert as Alzprotect's new Chief Operating Officer. His extensive experience and exceptional leadership skills in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries make him the ideal candidate to help drive our growth and innovation in developing drugs for Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Defert's expertise in medicinal chemistry, CMC, preclinical development, and project management will be a major asset to our team as we work to develop new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. We are confident that his appointment will accelerate our mission to offer innovative and effective treatments to patients and families affected by PSP and Alzheimer's disease. We are privileged to have Dr. Defert on our team and look forward to progressing together."
Dr. Noelle Callizot, Chief Science Officer, added: "Olivier's arrival is an opportunity for Alzprotect and will accelerate the development of AZP2006 in PSP and in new therapeutic indications. His experience also allows us to quickly approach the development of AZP2006 at an international level."