The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Investor joins Exscientia
Dundee-based drug discovery firm Exscientia has appointed a new deputy chairman.
Alex Snow, an experienced investor, banker and entrepreneur, has joined the Dundee University spin-off’s board of directors.
Mr Snow previously founded Oxford Sciences Innovation (OSI) and raised more than £600 million to commercialise world-leading science originating at Oxford University.
Prior to OSI, Alex spent 20 years in investment banking and fund management, most recently as CEO of the hedge fund Lansdowne Partners.
He was also the founder and CEO of Evolution Group, an investment banking and securities firm, which was sold to Investec Bank for £232 million in 2011.
Andrew Hopkins, chairman and CEO of Exscientia, said: “Alex brings deep investor knowledge and unique entrepreneurial skills to the board.
“He has a passion for translating cutting edge science into long-term, tangible value.
“The deep and active commitment Alex has shown to the company and the energy he brings to the role of deputy chairman will bring immense value.
“We are confident that his extensive experience in the investment community and wide networks will be invaluable in supporting the company’s strategy for growth.”
Exscientia is at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence-driven drug discovery and design.
This year the company signed a deal with global pharma company Sanofi potentially worth up to £210 million. It also agreed a strategic drug discovery collaboration with GlaxoSmithKline and sold a minority stake to German drug giant Evotec for €15m. It has also opened a second office in Oxford.
Mr Snow said: “Exscientia is a truly exciting company with the potential to be a game-changer in the pharma industry, as a tech company that discovers drugs.”