Mark Hensley Joins Heron Therapeutics as Chief Operating Officer to Drive Next Growth Phase

Heron Therapeutics Welcomes Mark Hensley as New COO

Heron Therapeutics, Inc., a biotechnology company listed on Nasdaq under the ticker HRTX, has announced the strategic appointment of Mark Hensley as their new Chief Operating Officer (COO). This key decision is aimed at leveraging Hensley’s extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry to steer the company into its next chapter of growth.

A Strategic Appointment for Growth

Mark Hensley joins Heron with a robust background that spans over fifteen years in various sales and operational roles within the pharmaceutical sector. Hensley's previous roles include significant leadership positions at Veloxis Pharmaceuticals, where he served as COO and Chief Commercial Officer before being promoted to Chief Executive Officer from 2021 to 2024. His varied experience positions him as a pivotal player in advancing Heron’s operational efficiency and strategic development.

Craig Collard, the Chief Executive Officer of Heron Therapeutics, expressed his excitement about Hensley’s appointment, stating, "Mark brings extensive operational and leadership experience that positions him to play a pivotal role in our next phase of growth." Collard emphasized that Hensley's operational acumen will ensure the company operates efficiently and effectively while adhering to compliance protocols as they pursue their strategic priorities and growth initiatives.

Hensley’s Career Path: A Look Back

Before making his impact at Heron, Hensley accumulated a wealth of experience at Veloxis where his leadership led to several advancements within the company. Previous to this, he held important positions at Cornerstone Therapeutics and Chiesi USA, further confirming his capability in driving results.

Hensley’s formal education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, complemented with a minor in Chemistry, from the University of North Texas, underscoring his solid academic foundation in the sciences.

Compensation and Inducement Awards

With his new role, Hensley will receive inducement awards designed to align his interests with those of Heron’s shareholders. These awards include a non-statutory stock option to purchase 500,000 shares of Heron common stock, 500,000 restricted stock units, and a performance-based stock option allowing the purchase of up to 900,000 shares if certain stock price targets are achieved. This strategic integration of incentives is indicative of Heron’s commitment to attracting top talent and fostering a culture of growth and accountability.

Under the terms of the inducement options, Hensley will see a structured vesting period that promotes his continued service and performance alignment with company goals, outlining a clear path for his contributions to the organization’s long-term success.

About Heron Therapeutics

Heron Therapeutics, Inc. is at the forefront of biotechnology focused on enhancing patient care through innovative therapies. The company is dedicated to developing and commercializing medical innovations that significantly improve the lives of patients, particularly in the acute care and oncology sectors. Heron Therapeutics employs advanced scientific methods and patented technologies combined with a forward-thinking approach to drug discovery and development.

For those interested in learning more about Heron and its mission to redefine patient care through innovative therapies, please visit Heron Therapeutics.

Looking Ahead

The appointment of Mark Hensley marks a significant milestone for Heron Therapeutics as it embarks on its next phase of growth. With a clear vision and experienced leadership, the company is poised to enhance its operational capabilities and solidify its position within the competitive biotechnology landscape. This development is one to watch as Heron continues to progress in delivering medical innovations that alter the standard of care for patients around the globe.