Tryptamine Therapeutics Ltd has named former Johnson & Johnson executive Herwig Janssen as its new non-executive chairman, marking a significant board refresh as the company prepares to enter a pivotal phase of clinical development for its lead drug candidate, TRP-8803.
The appointment, effective May 12, brings decades of global healthcare leadership to the helm of the clinical-stage biotech. Janssen brings more than 40 years of pharmaceutical sector experience, including 27 years as a vice president in J&J’s pharmaceutical arm.
Eyeing clinical trials
His appointment comes as Tryptamine progresses toward world-class clinical trials using TRP-8803, an IV-infused psilocin formulation, to treat binge eating disorder (BED). Janssen, who is already a shareholder in the company, said he was drawn by Tryptamine’s “pioneering” clinical work and the therapeutic potential of psychedelic-assisted treatments.
“As we advance to the next phase of trials, I look forward to leveraging my experience in international healthcare markets to help guide the strategic direction of the business,” he said.
During his tenure at J&J, Janssen led business development and deal execution across emerging markets, helping J&J access novel technologies and facilitating licensing deals, acquisitions, co-promotions and technology transfers.
He was instrumental in building innovative ecosystems to advance human health and was awarded J&J’s highest internal honour, the James E. Burke award, for leadership and impact.
Strengthened board
The board changes also see Chris Ntoumenopoulos transition to the role of executive director. A non-executive director since May 2024, Ntoumenopoulos is a corporate adviser with deep biotech experience, having held senior roles at Race Oncology and ResApp Health (acquired by Pfizer). He also chairs NeuroScientific Biopharmaceuticals.
Tryptamine CEO Jason Carroll welcomed both appointments as part of the company’s strategy to strengthen leadership ahead of key clinical and commercial milestones.
“With decades of experience as a senior global healthcare executive, we look forward to benefiting from Herwig’s insights at board level,” Carroll said. “Chris’s move into a more hands-on executive role reflects our commitment to building an experienced, agile leadership team as we prepare to launch our next phase of clinical trials.”
The company also thanked outgoing chairman Mark Davies, who will step down effective May 12. Davies oversaw several key developments including the acquisition of Tryp Therapeutics, a $6 million capital raise and the successful completion of Phase 1 trials.
Tryptamine is currently advancing multiple clinical programs using psilocin-based therapies for BED, fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome. The latest board changes position the company to drive its commercialisation efforts and strengthen its presence in the emerging psychedelics-based therapeutics space.