#Spain #gene therapy #San Sebastián #Viralgen #AAV

Viralgen's Leadership Change

Viralgen, recognized as a top contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) focusing on adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy, has officially announced a crucial leadership transition. As of January 1, 2027, Angela Ochoa Chico will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer, taking over from the incumbent Jimmy Vanhove, who will redirect his efforts towards an expansion initiative within Bayer's U.S. Pharmaceutical Product Supply Network based in New Albany, Ohio.

This leadership shift ushers in a new era for Viralgen, which has gained prominence under Vanhove's helm. Over the course of his four-year tenure, the CDMO has transformed from a nascent organization into a formidable player in AAV gene therapy, catering to developmental stages through to commercial-scale production. The consolidation of its facilities and capabilities has allowed it to cultivate relationships with an impressive portfolio of over 70 customers and partners worldwide.

Jimmy Vanhove has expressed pride in the progress made and emphasized the importance of sustaining an unwavering commitment to addressing the needs of individuals afflicted by rare diseases. Throughout his leadership, Viralgen's focus has consistently been on improving the operational framework while incorporating sustainability into its growth model. The company has not only strengthened its infrastructure but also improved its service offerings by enhancing its process development capabilities, achieving remarkable operational reliability, and nurturing a culture of continuous improvement.

With more than 450 professionals currently employed at its headquarters in San Sebastián, Spain, Viralgen operates a world-class facility dedicated to the production of AAV-based gene therapies. This facility features comprehensive capabilities that include process development, clinical and commercial production, quality control, and fill-finish solutions, thereby enabling it to handle the demands associated with high-yield production.

Angela Ochoa Chico arrives with nearly two decades of extensive international experience across various domains, including pharmaceutical operations, strategy, and organizational transformation. Prior to joining Viralgen, she held a strategic capacity at Bayer’s Pharmaceuticals Division as the Product Supply Strategy Excellence Lead. Her previous roles have entrenched her in the fabric of manufacturing and quality organizations within a global context, particularly in Mexico, which equips her with a nuanced understanding of the industry's complexities.

Chico has articulated her keen enthusiasm to join Viralgen at this pivotal juncture. She expressed her determination to build upon the strong foundations laid by her predecessor, striving to further enhance the company's manufacturing capabilities and fortify its reputation as a trusted partner in gene therapy production.

In her upcoming months, she aims to closely collaborate with Vanhove and the Viralgen team to ensure a seamless transition and uphold the quality and operational excellence that customers have come to rely on.

As a leader in the field, Viralgen plays a critical role in the advancement of gene therapies designed to address a broad spectrum of diseases. With its forward-looking leadership and committed workforce, the organization is poised for ongoing growth, ensuring that transformative therapies are consistently delivered to those in need.

In summary, the strategic shift in leadership at Viralgen marks an important milestone as the company prepares to navigate the future of gene therapy with renewed vigor and vision under Angela Ochoa Chico's leadership. The commitment to delivering impactful, life-changing therapies retains its central focus while evolving its operational strategies in line with market demands.