Genera names new CEO

Walter and Eliza Hall Institute spin-out Genera Biosystems has appointed a new chief executive officer to spearhead partnership opportunities in the United States.

The company was set up in late 2001 to commercialise a platform genomics technology - a kit to detect genetic mutations- developed at the WEHI and the Australian Genome Research Facility.

Dr Suzanne Lipe, who has held numerous management positions with multinational pharmaceutical companies, will take up the reins from founding CEO Dr Amada Caples, who is now the Victorian government's biotechnology director.

Announcing her appointment, Genera director Greg Baynton said Lipe would build on the company's experienced research and production team.

"Dr Lipe will lead Genera through the commercialisation of its SIFT technology by seeking strategic partnering with US based biotechnology companies," Baynton said.

"She brings excellent commercial management skills to Genera, which will be crucial to securing the company's future growth."

Lipe has spent more than 15 years with companies including Rhone-Poulenc Rorer (now Aventis), ICI Pharmaceuticals (now AstraZeneca), CSL, Institute of Drug Technology, and Molecular Medicine.

Most recently she was a local representative of New York-based investment and advisory firm Molecular Securities.

Baynton said Lipe's experience in business development, commercialisation and negotiating complex technology-based agreements within the industry, along with her access to the US biotechnology network, would help accelerate commercialisation of Genera's technology.

"Dr Lipe's past R&D and commercial roles have ranged from basic drug discovery, clinical trials management, regulatory approval processes, business development and licensing, through to sales and marketing," he said.

"Her appointment will help ensure a smooth and timely transition from the development phase to commercialisation, providing an early and positive cash flow for the company."