He replaces Thierry Laugel, Managing Partner at Kurma Partners, who remains a member of the board.
Dr Pruzanski has more than 30 years of experience as a life sciences executive, entrepreneur and investor. He most recently served as Chair and CEO of Versanis Bio, a private clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of new medicines for the treatment of obesity and other cardiometabolic diseases, which was acquired by Eli Lilly in July 2023.
He also founded Intercept Pharmaceuticals and was the company’s CEO until 2021, having led its evolution from drug discovery stage to a global development and commercial organisation with a focus on addressing chronic liver diseases.
He serves as a board member of several private and public biotechnology companies, the Emerging Companies Section of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) and the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a non-profit policy institute focusing on foreign policy and national security.
Dr Pruzanski received his MD from McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada, an MA degree in International Affairs from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies in Bologna, Italy and Washington, DC. and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from McGill University in Montreal, Canada.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mark as the Chair of the board of directors,” said Philip Janiak, founder and CEO of Corteria Pharmaceuticals.
“He brings extensive expertise in drug development with a solid track record in the biotechnology industry. His strategic vision, outstanding leadership and passion for innovation make Mark a valuable addition to Corteria as we continue our mission to advance innovative therapeutic solutions for heart failure and obesity.”
“It’s a privilege to join the board of Corteria,” said Mark Pruzanski. “This is an exciting time in the company’s evolution as it brings its impressive first-in-class assets into the clinic, on the heels of its recent Series A financing led by top tier biotech investors. I am looking forward to working with Philip and the rest of the board to help ensure Corteria’s future success.”