CHRIS GARABEDIAN

Chris Garabedian stands out as a highly influential figure in the life sciences investment landscape, known for his unique blend of operational expertise and strategic investment acumen. As the CEO of Perceptive Xcellerator, an integral part of Perceptive Advisors, he spearheads the incubation and acceleration of groundbreaking early-stage biotechnology companies. In addition to this leadership role, Mr. Garabedian is a Portfolio Manager for Perceptive Advisors' private equity and venture capital funds, actively shaping the firm's investment strategy in the dynamic healthcare sector.

Perceptive Advisors is a leading investment firm dedicated to the healthcare and life sciences industries. Under Chris Garabedian's guidance, the firm's investment focus areas are primarily innovative drug discovery and development platforms, novel therapeutic modalities, and companies addressing significant unmet medical needs. He is particularly adept at identifying promising biotech ventures that possess strong scientific foundations and clear pathways to clinical and commercial success. His approach often involves hands-on engagement with portfolio companies, leveraging his extensive operational background to guide their growth and development.

Garabedian's career background is marked by significant leadership roles in the biotechnology industry. Prior to joining Perceptive Advisors, he served as the President and CEO of Sarepta Therapeutics, where he is widely credited with orchestrating a remarkable turnaround. During his tenure at Sarepta, he led the company through critical stages of development, including the advancement of treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, ultimately transforming it into a leading gene therapy company. Before Sarepta, he held senior executive positions at major pharmaceutical and biotech firms, including Genzyme (now Sanofi Genzyme) and Celgene (now Bristol Myers Squibb), where he gained invaluable experience in drug development, commercialization, and corporate strategy.

His notable involvement extends beyond Sarepta, encompassing a range of strategic investments and board positions in emerging biotech companies. Through Perceptive Xcellerator, he has been instrumental in fostering a new generation of life sciences innovators, providing not just capital but also crucial strategic guidance and operational support. Chris Garabedian's deep understanding of the scientific, clinical, and regulatory landscapes makes him a sought-after partner for entrepreneurs and a key driver of innovation in the biotech investment community.