BionorthTX announced Dec. 4 that its board of directors had appointed Jorge Varela as president and chief executive officer, directing the association that represents the life sciences industry for 26 counties in North Texas including Dallas, Fort Worth and Arlington.
Dr. Terry Foster, who had been serving as Interim CEO for the organization, will continue to serve on the board of directors and the executive committee.
“In hiring a CEO, we looked for a proven executive capable of taking bionorthTX to the next level of success through innovative programs and services,” Chairman Frank Grassler said in a news release. “We are confident that Jorge is the right person to build on the momentum following the successful iC3 Summit conference.”
Varela, described as an entrepreneur, seasoned executive and angel investor, has founded or been part of the leadership team at successful startups in multiple industries.
He most recently was executive vice president at the Texas Research and Technology Foundation, where he co-founded and was CEO of VelocityTX, an innovation hub in south Texas.
Prior to that he was the director of TECH Fort Worth, a technology and business incubator whose startups have contributed more than $3 billion to the North Texas economy.
“I am incredibly excited to assume this role, as I am for the future of the association,” Varela said in the news release. “Our board is focused on taking the right steps to move bionorthTX forward and our membership is eager to take an active part in developing a strong life sciences community. Together they are the key drivers necessary to increase the number of high paying jobs, and to build a healthier North Texas.”
www.bionorthtx.org
¬– FWST Staff
