Vir Biotechnology Enhances Leadership with New CFO Appointment
Vir Biotechnology Inc. has taken a significant step in strengthening its executive team by appointing Jason O’Byrne as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This appointment is set to take effect on October 2, 2024. Mr. O’Byrne will be joining the executive management team and will directly report to CEO Marianne De Backer.
A Proven Financial Strategist
Jason O’Byrne brings over 20 years of extensive experience in finance and operations. Widely recognized for his expertise in financial discipline, he has a well-documented track record in capital allocation, corporate strategy, and operational execution. This experience is expected to play a crucial role as Vir Biotechnology continues its expansion into oncology while addressing unmet needs in infectious disease.
Previous Experience and Achievements
Before joining Vir, Mr. O’Byrne was the CFO at Caribou Biosciences, Inc., where he spearheaded finance, investor relations, corporate communications, IT, procurement, and operations. He played an integral role in advancing Caribou's clinical-stage cell therapies in oncology and autoimmune disease. At Audentes Therapeutics, he led financial operations and managed the integration during its acquisition by Astellas Pharma in 2020.
Moreover, at Genentech, part of the Roche group, he served in numerous significant roles, including Regional Head of Commercial Finance for Asia Pacific and Global Head of Finance for Product Development. His 13-year tenure at Genentech honed his expertise across manufacturing, research, clinical development, business development, and commercialization.
Vir's Vision and Mr. O’Byrne's Role
CEO Marianne De Backer expressed confidence in Mr. O’Byrne’s leadership, citing his prowess in financial strategy across public companies as indispensable for Vir’s journey forward. "Jason’s leadership is a perfect fit as we embark on the next chapter for our organization," she stated.
Mr. O’Byrne is equally enthusiastic about his new role, expressing admiration for Vir’s commitment to developing differentiated antibody therapeutics. His focus will be on advancing new therapeutic options for patients, especially as Vir expands its efforts in oncology and infectious diseases.
About Vir Biotechnology
Vir Biotechnology is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to transforming lives via innovative medicines targeting serious infectious diseases and cancer. Its portfolio includes programs for chronic hepatitis delta, hepatitis B infections, and multiple oncology initiatives. With a strong foundation in preclinical research, Vir is poised to make significant advances in the field of immune system-powered therapeutics.
