SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Life Science Washington, the state’s life science trade association, today announced the appointment of its new President & CEO. Leslie M. Alexandre, DrPH, most recently director for the Office of Research Development and Collaborations at Georgia Regents University Cancer Center (now Georgia Cancer Center at Augusta University), will assume the role on Tuesday, May 31.
Dr. Alexandre is an established business leader and 30-year veteran of the life sciences and health care industries. Her background includes leadership roles in biotechnology and health care startups, as well as several Fortune 500 companies. She was President & CEO of the internationally renowned North Carolina Biotechnology Center from 2002 to 2007 and has held senior positions at the National Cancer Institute and prominent research universities.
“We are extremely pleased to have Dr. Alexandre join our team,” said John Wecker, PhD, interim President & CEO and Board Chairman for Life Science Washington. “Dr. Alexandre knows what it takes to build successful life science enterprises and has a clear passion for using that experience for the benefit of our member organizations. I have no doubt that her leadership will drive continued industry growth across Washington state.”
At the Georgia Cancer Center, Dr. Alexandre led teams of scientists, clinicians and administrators to secure funding for its research programs, infrastructure and community outreach. In addition, she fostered relationships with biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, foundations and other universities and research institutions.
Dr. Alexandre will join Life Science Washington during a time of tremendous growth and opportunity. The state saw more than $3 billion in life science transactions in 2015, up from $1.6 billion in 2014. There are approximately 800 life sciences organizations in the state, located in 92 different cities. Furthermore, life sciences is the fifth largest employment sector in Washington, employing nearly 100,000 people statewide (Washington Research Council, 2014).
“A Washingtonian by birth, I am very excited to have the opportunity to lead this outstanding association and accelerate the growth of our life sciences economy,” said Dr. Alexandre. “Working with our members and partners throughout the state, I am confident we can establish Washington globally as a premier location for life science innovation and supportive public policy.”
Life Science Washington members and industry leaders will have the opportunity to meet Dr. Alexandre during the annual Life Science Innovation Northwest conference, held on June 1 and 2 at the Washington State Convention Center.
About Life Science Washington
Life Science Washington (formerly Washington Biotechnology & Biomedical Association) is an independent, non-profit 501(c)(6) trade association. Its mission is to support and grow Washington state life sciences through advocacy, collaboration and investment. Serving nearly 700 members, Life Science Washington brings together research institutions, investors and innovators to grow the state’s life science economy. More information can be found at www.lifesciencewa.org.