Abcam appoints new chairman

Abcam, a global provider of life science research tools, has announced the appointment of Peter Allen as non-executive chairman with immediate effect.

Allen assumes the role of chairman from Louise Patten, who has been serving as interim chairman and will revert to a non-executive director.

Allen has more than 20 years’ experience as an executive director, non-executive director and chairman in a wide range of life science companies. He is currently non-executive chairman of AIM-listed companies Clinigen, Advanced Medical Solutions and Diurnal Group, as well as privately owned Oxford Nanopore Technologies and is also a non-executive director of privately owned Istesso. From 1992-2004 Peter served as CFO of Celltech Group.

Louise Patten, interim chairman of Abcam and interim chairman of the Nomination Committee, said: "Following a thorough process, the board was unanimous in their view that Peter is the right candidate to chair Abcam. We are confident that his wide business experience, his industry knowledge and his personal qualities will enable him to make a significant contribution to the future of the company."

Peter Allen commented: "I am looking forward to taking on the role of chairman and am delighted to have the opportunity to help take Abcam to the next stage in its development and growth. I look forward to working with Alan Hirzel, his executive team and the board in implementing the company's strategic vision and building on its position as global leader in the sale of research reagents to deliver continued long term, profitable growth."

Following the appointment of Peter Allen, Louise Patten has resumed her position as senior independent director, which had been performed by Mara Aspinall on an interim basis during the search process.

The process to appoint Peter Allen was led by Louise Patten, interim chairman. The Nomination Committee appointed the leading executive search and board advisory consulting firm Lygon Group to conduct the search for a new chairman. An extensive search was conducted and a shortlist of candidates was agreed before interviews were conducted.

The board considers Allen to be independent, as defined by Code Provision B.1.2 of the UK Corporate Governance Code. Allen does not currently have any interests in Abcam shares.

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