Garabedian has been vice president of corporate strategy at Celgene Corporation since July 2007 ans was responsible for Celgene’s strategic and financial plan and supported the executive management team in shaping the long-term vision of the company through proprietary R&D investments and strategic M&A, including work in helping to execute the company’s 2008 acquisition of Pharmion.
Garabedian, who has served as a director since June, will continue as a member of the board and David Boyle II, who held the post of interim CEO and president, will continue in his role as CFO and senior vice president.
AVI BioPharma chairman William Goolsbee said that they believe Chris’ experience is ideal for driving products from early development through commercialisation, while also leveraging business development opportunities to unlock further value from our unique RNA-based therapeutics technology platforms.