Startups strengthen teams for accelerated growth

Release Therapeutics (RTx) is a Geneva-based company on a mission to treat genetic diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) without gene therapy. It is developing a breakthrough, implantable cell encapsulation platform technology to overcome the blood-brain barrier and deliver therapeutic proteins to the CNS. Following the recent completion of a pivotal study with the Company’s technology in non-human primates (NHPs), and in preparation for the upcoming developments such as preparing for the Series A and advancing its therapeutic platform towards clinical development, RTx has appointed Julien Grogg as the CEO. In his previous capacity as Chief Operating Officer (COO), Grogg led the Company’s evolution into a BioMedTech company focused on treating disorders of the CNS, together with outgoing CEO, Thomas Mehrling. His Grogg’s expertise spans therapeutic development, business development and corporate strategy, underscored by 18 years of experience in drug, medical device and Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (ATMP) development from bench to market. He has a proven track record in securing funding, achieving clinical translation and attaining market access for implantable cell encapsulation products.

Invenesis CTO takes on new role
Maxime Alessandri has joined Invenesis as the new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Invenesis, based in Neuchâtel, is a biotech company offering R&D services for drug discovery to industrial partners across the Animal Health, Plant Protection (Crop), pharmaceutical sectors, and Academia. Maxime brings a wealth of expertise in electrophysiology and computer science, coupled with a forward-thinking approach and a passion for technology. He will play a pivotal role in advancing our innovation strategy, developing cutting-edge technological solutions, and integrating into the leadership team to further enhance our ability to support clients in achieving their most ambitious projects.

Magnes strengthens team in the US
Medtech company Magnes, which analyses human movements using wearable sensors and AI algorithms to improve the mobility of neurological patients, is expanding its presence in the US by appointing JC Muyl as Head of Commercialization for North America, with a base in San Francisco. JC brings a wealth of experience in scaling digital health startups, having led C3i from a 20-person team in NYC to a global workforce of 1,500. His expertise spans Life Sciences, Clinical Trials, Behavioral Health, and Medical Devices, making him an exceptional product strategist. JC’s innovative approach, particularly his work integrating Generative AI into digital health, will be key as Magnes accelerates its growth. In addition to his professional achievements, JC is a passionate advocate for mental and physical disability causes, founding MyRareData, a non-profit that provides digital health solutions to rare disease communities.

Wyden appoints Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Wyden, a global leader in institutional digital asset trading technology, has welcomed Rémy Schimmel Maillet-Contoz to its team as executive member and leadership team as Chief Financial Officer, bringing extensive director-level leadership from his tenure of nearly two decades in the banking and financial services industry. Prior to joining Wyden, he held positions including CFO at Cembra, CFO of British private bank Coutts, Director of Client MI at Natwest Group, and Senior Finance Business Partner at Lloyds Banking Group. In his new role, he will oversee the development and implementation of finance strategy as well as the day-to-day management of financial operations, including compliance.

Obligate welcomes Chief Business Officer (CBO)
Tobias Wohlfarth has been appointed as the new Chief Business Officer (CBO) at Obligate, the fintech company providing solutions that allow companies to issue on-chain bonds and debt securities, obtaining funding from investors. In addition to his outstanding contributions as Head of Origination, Wohlfarth will now also take on responsibility for shaping Obligate’s product vision, leading our investment solutions offering, and overseeing business operations.
“With his strategic leadership and deep expertise, we are confident that he will help us elevate our mission to rewire the financial system to enable truly efficient flow of capital”, commented the company.

UpBoards welcomes new CEO
Since this year, seasoned business leader, Beat Bolzhauser is the new CEO at UpBoards, succeeding Andreas Halbleib. The founders Raphael Markstaller and Yannick Tuch will continue in their roles on the Board of Directors and provide situational support for the operational business. Founded in 2018, UpBoards develops, produces and distributes sustainable recycled sheets made from mixed plastic waste of high quality and a wide range of applications. Thanks to its patented manufacturing process, specially developed machinery, in-depth knowledge, rich experience and great expertise, UpBoards is among the pioneers and drivers of the reuse of mixed plastic waste - which is currently still primarily thermally recycled (=incinerated) or ends up in landfills or the sea.

Wonderfill apoints new COO
Wonderfill is fighting against plastic waste by providing an innovative beverages station to enable people to consume personalised beverages by simply refilling reusable bottles and glasses. Their commitment to reducing waste and fostering a more sustainable society is the driving force behind the team’s daily efforts. Supporting this mission is the newly hired COO Florencia Kühne. She brings startup experience and a Master’s in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which will be valuable to drive the company’s mission forward of making refilling the new normal.

(RAN)

Image: Julien Grogg (RTx), Rémy Schimmel Maillet-Contoz (Wyden), Tobias Wohlfarth (Obligate), JC Muyl (Magnes), Beat Bolzhauser (UpBoards), Maxime Alessandri (Invenesis), Florencia Kühne (Wonderfill).