Global genomics-driven diagnostics and research services company MedGenome announced on Wednesday that it has named Dr Amit Kakar as the chairman of its board, effective immediately.

Dr Kakar is to succeed Dr Felix Olale, MD, PhD, who has completed his two-year term as chairman of the board and will now focus on heading growth of the company's US and North America business.

Dr Kakar has served on MedGenome's board of directors since 2022 and is managing partner and head of Asia at Novo Holdings, a global life sciences investor owned by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. He brings over 30 years of experience in healthcare and life sciences, also serving on the boards of Doctor Anywhere, ESCO, and Qure.ai. Previously, he led Healthcare Investments at Avenue Capital for eight years, overseeing pan-Asia healthcare investments. He spent 14 years with GE Healthcare in senior roles across India, China and the US. Dr Kakar also headed M&A and Business Development at Everlife Asia in Singapore. His extensive expertise in healthcare investing, operations, management and leadership will support MedGenome's strategic growth in the coming years.

Mahesh Pratapneni, Group CEO & Co-founder of MedGenome, said, 'I am pleased to welcome Dr Amit Kakar as Chairman of the MedGenome Board. As a board member over the past few years, Dr. Amit has played a pivotal role in guiding the company to accomplish its organic and inorganic expansion plans. In his new role as Chairman of the Board, Dr. Amit will continue to guide the company on its growth initiatives. His sector expertise, leadership experience, strong industry connections, and deep knowledge of our business are powerful assets to both the board and the company as we execute our long-term strategy. We look forward to working closely with Dr. Amit to ensure MedGenome continues to make a positive impact on human lives. I also want to thank Dr. Felix for his tremendous contributions as chair and look forward to his continued contribution as a valued member of the MedGenome leadership team.'