Exonate, a biotechnology company developing novel, non-invasive, small-molecule therapeutics for patients with retinal vascular diseases, has expanded its Board with the appointment of Dr Rafiq Hasan as Non-Executive Director.
Rafiq brings extensive expertise in ophthalmology — specifically within the diabetic eye disease sector — from his years in global pharmaceutical businesses. The appointment further strengthens the Board of Directors as the Company continues to develop its lead candidate for diabetic eye disease, EXN407, toward Phase IIb clinical trials.
Rafiq has a proven record of success in the global pharmaceutical industry and is currently CEO of Complement Therapeutics, which focuses on developing next-generation complement medicines. In addition to his role at Complement, Rafiq holds Board and advisory roles at Oxular and BioGeneration Ventures.
Previous leadership roles within the ophthalmology sector have included Senior Vice President and Global Head of Ophthalmology at Bayer, where he oversaw the launch of Eylea for five indications within three years, and from launch to > USD $2.5bn in five years.
Catherine Beech, CEO, Exonate, said: “We’re pleased to welcome Dr Hasan to Exonate’s Board as Non-Executive Director. Rafiq’s years of expertise in diabetic eye disease, as well as treatment strategies across all stages of eye disease progression, will be invaluable to Exonate as we continue to develop our lead candidate through the clinic.”