Former CEO of Mirati Therapeutics and Ipsen, David Meek is slated to take over the reins from Andrew Obenshain as chief executive at bluebird once the deal closes, expected in the first half of 2025. “With the backing of Carlyle and SK Capital, we will bring the capital and commercial capabilities needed to accelerate and expand patient access to bluebird’s life-changing gene therapies,” Meek said.
Obenshain noted that while bluebird has been “at the forefront of gene therapy,” financial challenges made it clear that “securing the right strategic partner was critical” for the company’s future. The company said a “third and final denial” by the FDA of bluebird’s appeal for a priority review voucher also further complicated its financial outlook.
Still, Carlyle partner Joe Bress expressed confidence in bluebird’s potential, stating that his firm’s healthcare team is “excited about what lies ahead.” Similarly, Aaron Davenport, managing director at SK Capital, praised bluebird’s “scientific leadership” and “track record…on severe genetic diseases, and track record of successful product development and launch.”
