#Spain #gene therapy #San Sebastián #CEO Succession #Viralgen

Viralgen Announces CEO Transition

Viralgen, a prominent organization in contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) that specializes in producing adeno-associated virus-based gene therapies, has recently announced a significant change in leadership. CEO Jimmy Vanhove will be transitioning to a new role focused on the development and expansion of Bayer's pharmaceutical supply network in the United States. This new assignment will see him stationed in New Albany, Ohio, where he will integrate into Bayer's pharmaceutical supply management team.

Angela Ochoa Chico, currently a leader at Bayer, has been appointed as Vanhove's successor and will step into the role of CEO at Viralgen effective January 1, 2027. Ochoa brings nearly two decades of international experience in pharmaceutical operations and manufacturing, making her a valuable addition to the leadership team during this pivotal time.

A Period of Transformation

Under Jimmy Vanhove's leadership over the past four years, Viralgen has transformed from an emerging CDMO to a key player in the gene therapy market. The organization has specialized in adeno-associated viral vectors (AAV), supporting gene therapy programs from initial development stages to large-scale manufacturing. During Vanhove's tenure, Viralgen expanded its facilities, infrastructure, and development capabilities, establishing a comprehensive CDMO that offers end-to-end solutions.

With a focus on quality, operational reliability, and continuous improvement, Viralgen has integrated sustainability into its growth strategies. The company is driven by its mission to bring transformative gene therapies to patients. This commitment is reflected in its collaborations with over 70 global clients and partnerships with more than 15 foundations dedicated to rare disease support.

Currently, Viralgen employs over 450 professionals in San Sebastián, Spain, and operates one of the biggest facilities globally dedicated to AAV gene therapy production. The facility's capabilities include process development, clinical and commercial production, quality control, and final filling and finishing services.

Future Directions

Jimmy Vanhove expressed his pride in leading Viralgen through this transformative period, stating, "It has been a privilege to lead Viralgen during this time of transformation. I am especially proud that as Viralgen has grown, we have maintained our commitment to those living with diseases, both common and rare, and to the patient foundations that represent them. I trust that Angela will continue this legacy and guide Viralgen into its next exciting phase."

Angela Ochoa Chico also shared her enthusiasm about joining the Viralgen team: "I am tremendously pleased to join Viralgen at such an important stage of its evolution. Viralgen has built an exceptional reputation based on scientific excellence, quality, and innovation, supported by a highly talented team. I look forward to leveraging this solid foundation to enhance our manufacturing capabilities and further solidify Viralgen's position as a trusted partner in gene therapy production, guided by the unwavering goal of delivering transformative therapies to patients in need. In the months to come, I will closely collaborate with Jimmy and the Viralgen team to ensure a smooth transition into my role as CEO."

About Viralgen

Founded in 2017 as a subsidiary of AskBio, Inc. within the Bayer AG group, Viralgen focuses exclusively on CDMO services for gene and cell therapies based on AAV. The organization provides comprehensive support from early-stage development to large-scale commercial manufacturing. Utilizing its patented Pro10™ suspension cell line and the Aava™ manufacturing platform, Viralgen achieves scalable high-yield production across all AAV serotypes. With state-of-the-art facilities in San Sebastián, Spain, which are cGMP-compliant, Viralgen can produce up to 2,000 liters in each of three certified halls. Having successfully manufactured over 2,000 batches of AAV, the company is committed to providing reliable and efficient solutions that accelerate the delivery of transformative gene therapies to patients. More information about Viralgen can be found on their website at viralgen.com and on their LinkedIn page.