LifeArc, the self-funded, not-for-profit medical research organisation today announced the appointment of Stéphane Maikovsky as Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO), succeeding Dr Melanie Lee who stepped down from the role last month.

Stéphane joined LifeArc as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Trustee in June 2022 to lead the organisation’s Finance, Investment, Early Ventures, Information Technology and Operational Effectiveness teams.

On taking up his new role, Stéphane said, “I am delighted to be leading this organisation to deliver our bold strategy, which will see us spend over £1 billion by 2030 in areas of science where we believe we can have the greatest impact for patients. The LifeArc team, with its tremendous drive, shared values and a unique combination of expertise, has the resources and capabilities to make life science life-changing for patients around the world.

“I would like to thank Melanie for her dedication and determination in guiding LifeArc in her five years here, and for her steadfast commitment to delivering better outcomes for patients.”

“We are thrilled to have Stéphane leading our organisation. He brings a wealth of expertise that will help drive LifeArc forward in its mission to take promising early medical research and turn it into life-changing breakthroughs for patients. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Melanie for her leadership of LifeArc. She has left us in a strong position to realise our ambitions and deliver on our strategy.”

Ian Gilham, Chair of the LifeArc Board of Trustees

Stéphane was previously CFO at the Francis Crick Institute for over six years, where he made a considerable impact by leading their financial strategy, planning and commercial partnerships. He has also held a number of senior financial, commercial and strategic roles in global biotechnology and business. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants and has an LLM in Medical Law and Ethics from the University of Edinburgh.

The process to recruit a permanent CEO is underway.