David Epstein was most recently Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Seagen, a company that discovers, develops, manufactures, and commercializes targeted cancer therapeutics with antibody-drug conjugates at its core. During David’s tenure at Seagen, its portfolio of innovative targeted cancer medicines grew significantly and he ultimately led the merger of Seagen with Pfizer. David is also a board member at Valo Health, a company using AI and machine learning technology to reimagine drug discovery and development. From 2010-2016, David served as CEO of Novartis Pharmaceuticals, a division of Novartis AG. Previously, David started and led Novartis’ Oncology and Molecular Diagnostic units.

David’s experience also extends to early-stage discovery and innovation. He served as a consultant to Flagship Pioneering, a developer of bioplatform companies, Invus and several other firms. He has served as Chairman at Rubius Therapeutics, Axcella Therapeutics, Evelo Bio and as a board member at Ring Therapeutics, Tarus Therapeutics until its successful sale in June 2022, Senti Bio, Woosley Pharma and Cellestia AG. Over the course of his career, he led the development and commercialization of over 30 new molecular entities, including major breakthroughs such as Gleevec, Tasigna, Gilenya, Afinitor, Cosentyx and Entresto. His teams gained approval for over 100 new indications and launched three Prix Galien award winning medicines. He was also recognized by FierceBiotech as one of the “25 most influential people in biopharma. David attended Rutgers University where he earned a B.S. degree in Pharmacy,  before going to Columbia Business School to earn his M.B.A.