Boston — Aera Therapeutics has appointed Paul Conrad, Ph.D., MBA, as its new chief business and financial officer, the company announced Monday. Conrad brings more than three decades of experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, with a background spanning research and development, corporate strategy, business development, and finance.
The appointment comes as Aera advances its mission to develop next-generation delivery technologies and precision payloads that expand the therapeutic reach of genetic medicines. In his new role, Conrad will lead Aera’s business and financial strategy as the company prepares to move its programs closer to clinical development.
“Paul is a seasoned biopharmaceutical executive, and his leadership will be key as we continue to build the company and advance our programs toward the clinic,” said Aera CEO Akin Akinc, Ph.D. “We’re thrilled to welcome him to the team.”
Conrad most recently served as chief business officer at NextPoint Therapeutics, where he played a central role in forming research partnerships, securing financing, and scaling the company’s operations. Prior to that, he was vice president and head of business development, alliance management, and pipeline strategy at bluebird bio, where he helped expand the company’s oncology cell therapy portfolio.
Earlier in his career, Conrad held senior roles in business and corporate development at Shire, Baxalta, and AMAG Pharmaceuticals. He began his career as a biochemical engineer at Merck & Co.
“Aera is well-positioned to shape the future of genetic medicines through its innovative delivery technologies,” said Conrad. “I’m excited to join such an exceptional team and contribute to the company’s next phase of growth.”
Conrad holds degrees from Princeton University and the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and earned his MBA from Harvard Business School.
