Psyence Group Inc (CSE:PSYG) welcomed a new chief executive in former AstraZeneca Canada executive Dr Neil Maresky.
Maresky, who most recently served as vice president of scientific affairs at the pharmaceutical giant, will take the reins at the Toronto-based psychedelics firm, while Jody Aufrichtig, the group’s co-founder and current CEO, will transition into the executive chairman role.
A South African-trained doctor and one-time family physician, Maresky will oversee Psyence’s strategy and operations, including Psyence Production, Therapeutics, Experience and Function.
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“I am incredibly excited to lead Psyence into the next phase of its journey,” Maresky told shareholders in a statement.
“Never has there been a more critical time to bring innovative, natural products to address the huge burden of mental health that is impacting society, especially as we start to enter the era of pandemic recovery.”
Outgoing CEO Aufrichtig told investors that he is “delighted” to work with Maresky in his new role as executive chairman.
“We were fortunate to have attracted Dr. Maresky onto our Scientific Advisory Board right from the onset. It soon became apparent that Dr. Maresky’s skill set, experience and successful track record as a physician and pharma executive would be hugely beneficial to Psyence.”
Aufrichtig added that the firm is “well prepared” for its next stage of development after having led the successful merger of MindHealth and Psyence, followed by two successful fundraising rounds, and an IPO on the Canadian Securities Exchange.
Psyence built and operates one of the world’s first federally-licensed commercial psilocybin mushroom cultivation and production facilities. The company has an international footprint with operations in Canada, the US, the UK, Jamaica, Brazil, South Africa, and Australia.
In addition to its work in psychedelics, Psyence is also developing a nutraceutical mental wellness collection that supports improved focus, calm, and sleep.
Contact Angela at angela@proactiveinvestors.com
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