VANCOUVER, British Columbia– Augurex Life Sciences Corp., a world leader in the early diagnosis of autoimmune diseases and a pioneer in the field of 14-3-3η based diagnostics, today announced the appointment of Mr. Neil Klompas as President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Klompas will succeed Augurex’s Co-founder Dr. Norma Biln, who has served as President and CEO since the Company began operations in 2008. Dr. Biln will continue to be an integral part of the company transitioning into the interim role of global head of product research and development, and will remain on the Board of Directors as its Chair.
“I have long believed that the key to successfully treating and managing a disease is its early and accurate detection and diagnosis. 14-3-3η and JOINTstat®, Augurex’s novel diagnostic for autoimmune arthritic diseases, provides Rheumatologists with an important tool to achieve this.” said Mr. Klompas. “Our next diagnostic, SPINEstat®, has the potential to transform clinical practice as a first-in-class diagnostic for Ankylosing Spondylitis, enabling physicians to make a timely and accurate diagnosis of this prevalent autoimmune disorder. I look forward to building upon the many successes of Dr. Biln and the entire Augurex team, and to leading Augurex into its next phase of commercial growth where we deliver exceptional value to our patients and shareholders.”
“This is a very exciting time for Augurex, and for me as a founder,” said Dr. Biln. “At each stage of a company’s growth, a unique leadership skillset is needed to take the company to the next level, and Mr. Klompas has the strategic and financial acumen, expertise and high-paced results-driven approach to take us there.” Dr. Biln adds, “I look forward to Mr. Klompas building the future for Augurex’s key stakeholders, starting with patients through to its customers, suppliers and shareholders. I welcome Mr. Klompas, on behalf of the whole team at Augurex and our Board of Directors.”
A seasoned life sciences executive, Mr. Klompas has been involved in healthcare and biotechnology for over 30 years in various senior leadership roles spanning operational, financial and research and development responsibilities. Most recently, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Zymeworks (NASDAQ: ZYME), where he had previously held the role of Chief Financial Officer. Prior to that, Mr. Klompas’ experience included roles with KPMG, a global financial services firm, in both the United States and Canada where he advised on transactions and financial engagements across the pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and medical devices sectors. Mr. Klompas serves as a director on the board of NervGen Pharma (TSXV; NGEN) and has served as a director and advisor to various biotechnology companies, including previously serving as Board Chair for Ovensa Inc., and on the Board of Liminal Biotherapeutics. Mr. Klompas holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of British Columbia, and is a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Professional Accountant.
