#USA #Basel #CordenPharma #Jean-Luc Herbeaux #Michael Quirmbach

Transition of Leadership at CordenPharma

CordenPharma, a global leader in pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing, has announced a significant leadership change. Effective October 1, 2026, Dr. Jean-Luc Herbeaux will take over as the company’s Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Dr. Michael Quirmbach. This transition marks a pivotal moment as CordenPharma enters its next growth phase, building upon a decade of development under Quirmbach’s guidance.

A Legacy of Growth and Transformation

Dr. Michael Quirmbach has been at the helm of CordenPharma since 2019, but his relationship with the company dates back 12 years. During this time, he has been instrumental in reshaping the business into a leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO). Under his leadership, CordenPharma has witnessed remarkable growth—expanding its annual revenue from 245 million euros to over 1 billion euros.

As Dr. Quirmbach transitions out of his dual roles as CEO and President, he will remain engaged with the company as a board member and senior advisor. His continued involvement promises to bring valuable experience and industry insights, ensuring a smooth leadership transition while maintaining strategic direction.

Welcoming Dr. Jean-Luc Herbeaux

Dr. Herbeaux joins CordenPharma from Hovione, where he served as CEO for over four years. His extensive background also includes roles as Chief Operating Officer and various senior management positions at Evonik, a global leader in specialty chemicals and sustainable materials technology. His successful tenure in these roles equips him with the operational and strategic expertise necessary to lead CordenPharma.

In his new role, Dr. Herbeaux will focus on executing a long-term strategy that emphasizes sustained growth, operational excellence, customer service, and the continuous development of CordenPharma’s global platform. His appointment comes at a time when the company is embarking on a new phase of growth following significant strategic expansions and investments, including the recent acquisition of AmbioPharm, a specialist in peptide contract development and manufacturing.

CordenPharma currently operates 13 facilities across Europe, North America, and Asia, employing over 3,500 staff. This extensive network supports clients throughout the drug development process from initial phases to commercial manufacturing.

Shared Vision for Future Success

Industry leaders and stakeholders express enthusiasm about the leadership change. Judith Charpentier, the Joint Managing Partner and Co-Head of Flagship, praised Dr. Quirmbach’s exceptional contributions. She expressed gratitude for his leadership and collaboration, while also looking forward to working with Dr. Herbeaux. Herbeaux’s expansive industry experience is anticipated to strengthen CordenPharma’s position in the CDMO sector.

“I am excited to join CordenPharma and collaborate closely with Astorg during this defining period of the company's development,” Dr. Herbeaux remarked. He acknowledged the impressive foundation laid by Quirmbach and his team and sees significant opportunities ahead. “My focus will be on executing our growth plans with discipline, deepening our customer partnerships, and enhancing the capabilities we rely on to develop and manufacture critical medicines for patients worldwide.”

Dr. Quirmbach expressed pride in CordenPharma's achievements over the past years, recognizing the teamwork and contributions of peers, clients, and partners. He emphasized the company's strong position for future development and is committed to continuing his role on the board and as a senior advisor, further supporting the company he helped build.

About CordenPharma

CordenPharma specializes in supporting innovative biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies with complex modalities through its comprehensive outsourcing services, covering the entire supply chain. With a commitment to scientific excellence and collaboration, CordenPharma offers high-value services focusing on peptides, small molecules, custom lipid excipients, lipid nanoparticles (LNP), sterile injectables, and oligonucleotides. The acquisition by Astorg, a leading pan-European private equity firm, positions CordenPharma for accelerated growth and reinforces its role as a global leader in the CDMO industry. For more information, visit cordenpharma.com and follow CordenPharma on LinkedIn.