SYDNEY, Australia: Antisense Therapeutics Limited (ANP) announced that following his significant tenure as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director (CEO), Mark Diamond has advised that he is retiring as CEO. Mark will continue his responsibilities as CEO until a successor is appointed.
ANP Chair, Dr Charmaine Gittleson commented, “On behalf of the ANP Board, I regretfully acknowledge Mark’s resignation and understand his desire to pursue other opportunities after more than twenty years in the role.
Mark has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the Company for the benefit of shareholders, patients and his team. He became CEO at a challenging time for the Australian biotech industry when few successful biotechnology companies existed.
Under his dedication and guidance, the Company successfully transformed from a small start-up, with a licence to a second generation antisense molecule, to an ASX listed biotech with a promising lead product, ATL1102, which is entering later stage clinical development for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Mark is regarded as a most competent and successful leader in the Australian biotechnology industry, and I am sure will continue making positive contributions to the sector. I sincerely thank Mark for his support, leadership, resilience, and contribution throughout his time with ANP as CEO”.
Mr Diamond said, “I feel privileged to have served as Antisense Therapeutics CEO for what I am advised has been the longest term of any current CEO of an ASX listed biotech company. I am proud of what has been accomplished under my leadership and I believe that the Company is well positioned for a bright future ahead and that it is the right time, ahead of our upcoming AGM, for me to step down as CEO in anticipation of a suitable successor.
Antisense Therapeutics Limited has a highly accomplished board and experienced management team and I have the greatest confidence that they will continue the successful advancement of our drug development programs and in turn deliver on their substantial medical and commercial potential. I would especially like to thank the Board, our highly dedicated Antisense Therapeutics Limited employees, our specialist team of consultant advisors and the many long-term shareholders who have been alongside supporting the Company’s 20-year journey since listing. I look forward to working with my future successor when appointed for an effective handover.”
Following the Company’s Annual General Meeting of shareholders to be held on Thursday 17 November 2022, the Board will commence executive search activity both externally and internally, for a new Chief Executive Officer that can build on Mark’s legacy and spearhead the Company’s next phase of growth. Mark will continue as CEO providing leadership and continuity until the appointment of a successor, ensuring a smooth transition.