Clean Biologics has appointed Laurent Claisse as chief executive officer, as the France-based CDMO sharpens its focus on international expansion — particularly across North America.

Claisse takes over from Joseph Jammal, who served for five years and was instrumental in strengthening group operations, most notably at its subsidiary Clean Cells. Under Jammal’s leadership, the company grew its position as a leading European provider of quality control services for developers of biologic therapies.

The CEO transition comes at an important moment for the company. The group recently acquired US-based Karyologic, headquartered in North Carolina — a state well known for its deep life sciences ecosystem.

Claisse, who brings global leadership experience in biomanufacturing, joins from Sartorius, where he was senior vice-president of operations for the Washington DC–Baltimore region. His previous roles include senior executive positions at Danaher’s Pall Corporation and Molecular Devices.

“I’m thrilled to join Clean Biologics at this pivotal moment, especially following its recent strategic acquisition of Karyologic. We aim to build on this momentum by further enhancing our presence and capabilities across North America, leveraging the strong foundations already in place,” said Claisse.

Denis Ribon, managing partner at ARCHIMED – Clean Biologics’ majority shareholder — added: “Laurent’s vast international experience in operations, sales, marketing and business development, along with his proven track record in North America, aligns perfectly with our strategic ambition to strengthen our international presence. We extend our gratitude to Joseph for his remarkable contributions to Clean Biologics’ growth and welcome Laurent to further accelerate the group’s international expansion.”

Current CEO Joseph Jammal said: “I am proud of the impactful transformations we have achieved at Clean Biologics. Laurent’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter focused on extending our commercial and strategic reach, particularly in the US.”

Clean Biologics reported €30 million ($34 million) in revenue for 2024, with the US already accounting for 20% of its business — a figure, it says, is expected to rise sharply as expansion plans unfold.