SAN MATEO, Calif.– Sagimet Biosciences, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics targeting dysfunctional metabolic pathways, announced today that it has appointed David Happel as chief executive officer, replacing George Kemble, PhD, who will transition to become executive chairman of the board.
“We are pleased to welcome Dave as our new chief executive officer. He brings a strong track record of developing and executing corporate business strategies, raising private and public capital, negotiating M&A transactions, scaling operations and commercializing products,” said Beth Seidenberg, MD, board chair, general partner, Kleiner Perkins, and founder and managing director of Westlake Village BioPartners. “As Sagimet anticipates moving forward to late-stage clinical trials with our lead program, denifanstat, Dave’s experience will be instrumental to the company’s growth. We are fortunate to benefit from George’s continued contributions and expertise in his new role as executive chairman of the board.”
Mr. Happel brings extensive industry experience, from biotech start-ups to large pharmaceutical companies. He was most recently president and chief executive officer of Cognoa, a pediatric behavioral health company developing AI-based technologies for developmental and behavioral health conditions, including the first FDA-authorized diagnostic aid, Canvas Dx, for autism. Cognoa was named a Fierce MedTech 2021 winner. Happel was previously CEO of Chrono Therapeutics and has held several executive and commercial positions at Horizon Therapeutics, Raptor Pharmaceuticals, Dynavax Technologies and Chiron. Happel has a BA in chemistry from Indiana University and an MBA from Indiana State University.
