Ironwood Pharmaceuticals has appointed Edwards Owens to the company’s board of directors.
Owens is a former partner at investments advisor Wellington Management, and joins the US-based biopharma at a time of growth following the approval of Linzess (linaclotide) in the US for irritable bowel syndrome and constipation.
“After decades of observing companies from the outside, I am excited to be part of what I hope and expect will be one of the next great growth companies in biotech,” said Owens.
“The execution of a successful launch of Linzess should provide our team with the resources to build an exceptional business, focused on improving human health and advancing patient care.”
Owens served at Wellington from 1974 to his retirement in 2012, spending 18 years as portfolio manager for the Vanguard Health Care Fund.
During his tenure, the Vanguard Health Care Fund was the best performing mutual fund among all mutual funds.
Peter Hecht, CEO of Ironwood, commented on the appointment of Owens: “He has deeply probed the strategy, growth, successes and challenges of nearly every company in the healthcare space during his investing career, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to tap into his insights, business savvy and ownership focus.”