Flagship Pioneering lures former BMS exec to its scientific team

Massachusetts, USA-based biotech incubator Flagship Pioneering has announced that pharma and biotech leader Rupert Vessey is joining the company as chief scientist and executive partner, effective July 31.

In this newly-created role, Mr Vessey will work closely with Flagship’s origination teams, engaging deeply with the science and strategies behind emergent early-stage companies, providing perspective and guidance on how to evolve and position Flagship's bioplatforms for pipeline and product success. Mr Vessey will also advise Flagship’s strategic initiative Pioneering Medicines on its expanding portfolio of therapeutic candidates.

Mr Vessey’s departure from Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) was revealed in a late January regulatory filing. He served as executive vice president and president of research of BMS, overseeing the advancement of promising programs, technologies, and assets across all therapeutic areas, from discovery through proof-of-concept. He was previously president of research and early development at Celgene, which BMS acquired.