Guiding Innovation,
Sustaining Excellence
The ArcticZymes Leadership Team
Our leadership team is committed to creating a culture where exceptional scientific work thrives, paving the way for innovative solutions that accelerate your progress with reliable, precision-engineered enzymes.
Michael Benjamin Akoh (born 1973) joined ArcticZymes as CEO on September 18th, 2023. He has more than 20 years of global experience from the Life Science industry within the IVD, Medical Devices and CRO segments. Michael B. Akoh has had senior roles in both larger cooperations as well as in start-up and scale-up organisations. Most recently he was CCO at Pre Diagnostics and before that he was active as Managing Director of Wieslab AB, where he successfully scaled and grew the existing business as well as led the establishment of a new pharma services business area. Earlier on in his career he worked with commercialization of several successful solutions at Dako (Agilent) and Oticon (Demant). Mr. Akoh has a M.Sc. from Copenhagen Business School (CBS) in International Management and Marketing. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Akoh: 7,660. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Akoh: 200,000
Michael Benjamin Akoh (born 1973) joined ArcticZymes as CEO on September 18th, 2023. He has more than 20 years of global experience from the Life Science industry within the IVD, Medical Devices and CRO segments. Michael B. Akoh has had senior roles in both larger cooperations as well as in start-up and scale-up organisations. Most recently he was CCO at Pre Diagnostics and before that he was active as Managing Director of Wieslab AB, where he successfully scaled and grew the existing business as well as led the establishment of a new pharma services business area. Earlier on in his career he worked with commercialization of several successful solutions at Dako (Agilent) and Oticon (Demant). Mr. Akoh has a M.Sc. from Copenhagen Business School (CBS) in International Management and Marketing. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Akoh: 7,660. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Akoh: 200,000
Børge Sørvoll (born 1975) assumed the position as CFO on Oct 1, 2014. He has previous experience from the position as SCM Manager at Subsea 7, and before that as CFO in Front Exploration and as Managing Director of Troms Kraft Invest. Børge holds a "Siviløkonom" degree in Finance from the University of Wyoming. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Sørvoll: 100,428. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Sørvoll: 280,000
Børge Sørvoll (born 1975) assumed the position as CFO on Oct 1, 2014. He has previous experience from the position as SCM Manager at Subsea 7, and before that as CFO in Front Exploration and as Managing Director of Troms Kraft Invest. Børge holds a "Siviløkonom" degree in Finance from the University of Wyoming. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Sørvoll: 100,428. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Sørvoll: 280,000
Dr Lorentzen (born 1968) was granted a Dr Scient degree in Biotechnology from University of Tromsø in 2005. She joined the company (Biotec Pharmacon) as a Sr. Research Scientist in 2011 and holds the position as Director of Operations since 2020. She has extensive work experience within laboratory operations, management and research. She is employee elected to The Board of Directors in ArcticZymes Technologies. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lorentzen: 25,331. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lorentzen: 115,000.
Dr Lorentzen (born 1968) was granted a Dr Scient degree in Biotechnology from University of Tromsø in 2005. She joined the company (Biotec Pharmacon) as a Sr. Research Scientist in 2011 and holds the position as Director of Operations since 2020. She has extensive work experience within laboratory operations, management and research. She is employee elected to The Board of Directors in ArcticZymes Technologies. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lorentzen: 25,331. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lorentzen: 115,000.
Dr Lanes (born 1972) was granted a Dr Scient degree in molecular biology from University of Tromsø in 2000. He joined the company (Biotec Pharmacon) as a researcher the same year and the position as Director of R&D and Applications since in 2016. Olav has extensive experience in innovation management and product development. Dr. Lanes is inventor and co-inventor of eight patent- or pending patent families, all today part of the IPR assets in the company. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lanes: 7,000. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lanes: 100,000.
Dr Lanes (born 1972) was granted a Dr Scient degree in molecular biology from University of Tromsø in 2000. He joined the company (Biotec Pharmacon) as a researcher the same year and the position as Director of R&D and Applications since in 2016. Olav has extensive experience in innovation management and product development. Dr. Lanes is inventor and co-inventor of eight patent- or pending patent families, all today part of the IPR assets in the company. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lanes: 7,000. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lanes: 100,000.
Grethe Ytterstad (born 1973) holds a Cand. Scient degree in Biology from The Arctic University of Norway. She rejoined ArcticZymes in June 2021 as QA and Regulatory Manager, and as of July 1st, 2023, she has taken on the role of VP Regulatory Affairs. Prior to her return to ArcticZymes, Grethe held the position of QA Manager at the Diagnostic Laboratory "Laboratoriemedisin" within the University Hospital of North Norway (UNN). She initially joined ArcticZymes (Biotec Pharmacon) in 2002, as a Process Engineer, where she later transitioned into QA. Her extensive knowledge in QA Management within the Diagnostics and Pharma sectors are reflected in her broad regulatory experience. She is well-versed in various regulations and standards, including GMP, MDR, IVDR, Blood and Cell Regulation, ISO 13485, ISO 14971, ISO 15189, ISO 9001, and ISO 17025. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs. Ytterstad: 7.269. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs. Ytterstad: 0
Grethe Ytterstad (born 1973) holds a Cand. Scient degree in Biology from The Arctic University of Norway. She rejoined ArcticZymes in June 2021 as QA and Regulatory Manager, and as of July 1st, 2023, she has taken on the role of VP Regulatory Affairs. Prior to her return to ArcticZymes, Grethe held the position of QA Manager at the Diagnostic Laboratory "Laboratoriemedisin" within the University Hospital of North Norway (UNN). She initially joined ArcticZymes (Biotec Pharmacon) in 2002, as a Process Engineer, where she later transitioned into QA. Her extensive knowledge in QA Management within the Diagnostics and Pharma sectors are reflected in her broad regulatory experience. She is well-versed in various regulations and standards, including GMP, MDR, IVDR, Blood and Cell Regulation, ISO 13485, ISO 14971, ISO 15189, ISO 9001, and ISO 17025. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs. Ytterstad: 7.269. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs. Ytterstad: 0
Dr. Jeremy Gillespie joined ArcticZymes as VP Corporate Development in June 2023. With a Ph.D. in Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Bath, UK, Jeremy has extensive experience in commercial leadership roles with biotech companies including Invitrogen, ThermoFisher Scientific, Enzymatics (QIAGEN), and Kerry Foods. His expertise and vision are valuable assets to drive ArcticZymes' growth and success. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr. Gillespie: 0. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr. Gillespie: 0.
Dr. Jeremy Gillespie joined ArcticZymes as VP Corporate Development in June 2023. With a Ph.D. in Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Bath, UK, Jeremy has extensive experience in commercial leadership roles with biotech companies including Invitrogen, ThermoFisher Scientific, Enzymatics (QIAGEN), and Kerry Foods. His expertise and vision are valuable assets to drive ArcticZymes' growth and success. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr. Gillespie: 0. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr. Gillespie: 0.
Paul Blackburn (born 1974) assumed the role of Global Vice President of Sales at ArcticZymes in September 2024. In addition to a Ph.D in vaccine development from the University of Glasgow and a degree in Medical Microbiology from the University of Edinburgh, Paul has an extensive and proven commercial background in life sciences. With over 20 years of technical and commercial experience, he has previously built and led successful teams at companies such as 10x Genomics, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Bio-Rad, and GE, where he honed his strategic leadership skills in sales and marketing. Throughout his career, Paul has been instrumental in establishing and nurturing collaborations within the research science and bioproduction sectors, leveraging his expertise to drive business growth and foster valuable relationships. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held: 0. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held: 0.
Paul Blackburn (born 1974) assumed the role of Global Vice President of Sales at ArcticZymes in September 2024. In addition to a Ph.D in vaccine development from the University of Glasgow and a degree in Medical Microbiology from the University of Edinburgh, Paul has an extensive and proven commercial background in life sciences. With over 20 years of technical and commercial experience, he has previously built and led successful teams at companies such as 10x Genomics, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Bio-Rad, and GE, where he honed his strategic leadership skills in sales and marketing. Throughout his career, Paul has been instrumental in establishing and nurturing collaborations within the research science and bioproduction sectors, leveraging his expertise to drive business growth and foster valuable relationships. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held: 0. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held: 0.
Ruth Hendus-Altenburger (born 1983) studied biophysics at Humboldt University, Berlin, and holds a Ph.D. in protein biochemistry from Copenhagen University. Before joining ArcticZymes, she worked with various enzymes in several cross-disciplinary research projects, combining technical expertise with project management. Additionally, Ruth gained experience in analytical routine testing, formulation development, stability studies, assay development and validation under GMP regulations while working within Chemistry, Manufacturing and Control (CMC) at a biopharmaceutical company developing protein-based immuno-therapeutics. Ruth joined ArcticZymes as a Senior Research Scientist in 2021. She is leading the Project Management Office since August 2023, coordinating cross-functional project activities and contributing her technical expertise to product development and maintenance.
Ruth Hendus-Altenburger (born 1983) studied biophysics at Humboldt University, Berlin, and holds a Ph.D. in protein biochemistry from Copenhagen University. Before joining ArcticZymes, she worked with various enzymes in several cross-disciplinary research projects, combining technical expertise with project management. Additionally, Ruth gained experience in analytical routine testing, formulation development, stability studies, assay development and validation under GMP regulations while working within Chemistry, Manufacturing and Control (CMC) at a biopharmaceutical company developing protein-based immuno-therapeutics. Ruth joined ArcticZymes as a Senior Research Scientist in 2021. She is leading the Project Management Office since August 2023, coordinating cross-functional project activities and contributing her technical expertise to product development and maintenance.
The Board of Directors
Dr. Mathias is the CEO at Oxford Biomedica, a leading pure-play CDMO within the cell and gene therapy industry. Dr. Mathias was previously the CEO of Rentschler Biopharma SE, which he successfully developed into a leading global, full-service CDMO. Prior to Rentschler, Dr. Mathias served as CEO of Medigene AG, a publicly listed immuno-oncology company. During his 30-year career, Dr. Mathias has held senior roles at leading global pharmaceutical companies, including Amgen Deutschland GmbH, Servier Deutschland GmbH, and Hoechst AG. In 2019, he was awarded the “EY Entrepreneur of the Year” title in Germany. Dr. Mathias is a pharmacist by training and completed his Doctorate in Pharmacy at Paris VI University. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Mathias: 9,000
Dr. Mathias is the CEO at Oxford Biomedica, a leading pure-play CDMO within the cell and gene therapy industry. Dr. Mathias was previously the CEO of Rentschler Biopharma SE, which he successfully developed into a leading global, full-service CDMO. Prior to Rentschler, Dr. Mathias served as CEO of Medigene AG, a publicly listed immuno-oncology company. During his 30-year career, Dr. Mathias has held senior roles at leading global pharmaceutical companies, including Amgen Deutschland GmbH, Servier Deutschland GmbH, and Hoechst AG. In 2019, he was awarded the “EY Entrepreneur of the Year” title in Germany. Dr. Mathias is a pharmacist by training and completed his Doctorate in Pharmacy at Paris VI University. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Mathias: 9,000
Sharon Brownlow has a background in Biotech and extensive experience in the cell and gene therapy industry, Mrs. Brownlow is renowned for blending her scientific roots with entrepreneurial drive. Her proven track record includes senior commercial roles in Catapult and Cobra Biologics, where she effectively drove strategic business momentum and long-term revenue growth. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs Brownlow: 10,570
Sharon Brownlow has a background in Biotech and extensive experience in the cell and gene therapy industry, Mrs. Brownlow is renowned for blending her scientific roots with entrepreneurial drive. Her proven track record includes senior commercial roles in Catapult and Cobra Biologics, where she effectively drove strategic business momentum and long-term revenue growth. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs Brownlow: 10,570
Petter Dragesund is a former Senior Partner at Pareto Securities. Mr. Dragesund boasts nearly three decades of experience in investment banking. Serving in various capacities at Pareto from 1992 to 2021, including Head of the Corporate Finance department from 2001 to 2014, he brings invaluable financial acumen to the Board. Since 2021, Mr. Dragesund has been an independent investor, further broadening his insights into market dynamics.
Petter Dragesund is a former Senior Partner at Pareto Securities. Mr. Dragesund boasts nearly three decades of experience in investment banking. Serving in various capacities at Pareto from 1992 to 2021, including Head of the Corporate Finance department from 2001 to 2014, he brings invaluable financial acumen to the Board. Since 2021, Mr. Dragesund has been an independent investor, further broadening his insights into market dynamics.
Lill Hege Henriksen holds a chemist engineering degree in Biotechnology from Høgskolen in Nord-Trøndelag, a Cand.mag degree from the University of Tromsø and an MBA from the University of Nordland in Bodø. She worked in several laboratories at the University of Tromsø and University hospital before joining ArcticZymes in 2011, while finishing the MBA master’s degree. In 2012, she started full time in the marketing and sales department. She has been doing all order handling in ArcticZymes the last 10 years and know customers well. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs. Henriksen: 3,088. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs. Henriksen:
Lill Hege Henriksen holds a chemist engineering degree in Biotechnology from Høgskolen in Nord-Trøndelag, a Cand.mag degree from the University of Tromsø and an MBA from the University of Nordland in Bodø. She worked in several laboratories at the University of Tromsø and University hospital before joining ArcticZymes in 2011, while finishing the MBA master’s degree. In 2012, she started full time in the marketing and sales department. She has been doing all order handling in ArcticZymes the last 10 years and know customers well. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs. Henriksen: 3,088. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs. Henriksen:
Terese Solstad holds a Dr Scient degree in Molecular Biology from the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway. She has been working in the R&D department at ArcticZymes since 2011, focusing on the development of purification procedures, enzymatic assays, application testing, as well as product development. Through work with product development, she has gained a comprehensive understanding of the requirements from each department involved in the entire production process, from the initial stages to the final release of the product for sale. As a Product Development Manager her responsibilities at ArcticZymes Technologies lie within personnel management, research, and development of new products. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr. Solstad: 0. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Solstad: 0
Terese Solstad holds a Dr Scient degree in Molecular Biology from the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway. She has been working in the R&D department at ArcticZymes since 2011, focusing on the development of purification procedures, enzymatic assays, application testing, as well as product development. Through work with product development, she has gained a comprehensive understanding of the requirements from each department involved in the entire production process, from the initial stages to the final release of the product for sale. As a Product Development Manager her responsibilities at ArcticZymes Technologies lie within personnel management, research, and development of new products. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr. Solstad: 0. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Solstad: 0
The ArcticZymes Leadership Team
Our leadership team is deeplycommitted to creating a culture where exceptional scientific work thrives,paving the way for the innovative solutions that to elevate our partnersproducts from good to great.
Ruth Hendus-Altenburger (born 1983) studied biophysics at Humboldt University, Berlin, and holds a Ph.D. in protein biochemistry from Copenhagen University. Before joining ArcticZymes, she worked with various enzymes in several cross-disciplinary research projects, combining technical expertise with project management. Additionally, Ruth gained experience in analytical routine testing, formulation development, stability studies, assay development and validation under GMP regulations while working within Chemistry, Manufacturing and Control (CMC) at a biopharmaceutical company developing protein-based immuno-therapeutics. Ruth joined ArcticZymes as a Senior Research Scientist in 2021. She is leading the Project Management Office since August 2023, coordinating cross-functional project activities and contributing her technical expertise to product development and maintenance.
Grethe Ytterstad (born 1973) holds a Cand. Scient degree in Biology from The Arctic University of Norway. She rejoined ArcticZymes in June 2021 as QA and Regulatory Manager, and as of July 1st, 2023, she has taken on the role of VP Regulatory Affairs. Prior to her return to ArcticZymes, Grethe held the position of QA Manager at the Diagnostic Laboratory "Laboratoriemedisin" within the University Hospital of North Norway (UNN). She initially joined ArcticZymes (Biotec Pharmacon) in 2002, as a Process Engineer, where she later transitioned into QA. Her extensive knowledge in QA Management within the Diagnostics and Pharma sectors are reflected in her broad regulatory experience. She is well-versed in various regulations and standards, including GMP, MDR, IVDR, Blood and Cell Regulation, ISO 13485, ISO 14971, ISO 15189, ISO 9001, and ISO 17025. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs. Ytterstad: 7.269. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mrs. Ytterstad: 0
Dr. Jeremy Gillespie joined ArcticZymes as VP Corporate Development in June 2023. With a Ph.D. in Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Bath, UK, Jeremy has extensive experience in commercial leadership roles with biotech companies including Invitrogen, ThermoFisher Scientific, Enzymatics (QIAGEN), and Kerry Foods. His expertise and vision are valuable assets to drive ArcticZymes' growth and success. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr. Gillespie: 0. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr. Gillespie: 0.
Paul Blackburn (born 1974) assumed the role of Global Vice President of Sales at ArcticZymes in September 2024. In addition to a Ph.D in vaccine development from the University of Glasgow and a degree in Medical Microbiology from the University of Edinburgh, Paul has an extensive and proven commercial background in life sciences. With over 20 years of technical and commercial experience, he has previously built and led successful teams at companies such as 10x Genomics, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Bio-Rad, and GE, where he honed his strategic leadership skills in sales and marketing. Throughout his career, Paul has been instrumental in establishing and nurturing collaborations within the research science and bioproduction sectors, leveraging his expertise to drive business growth and foster valuable relationships. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held: 0. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held: 0.
Dr Lanes (born 1972) was granted a Dr Scient degree in molecular biology from University of Tromsø in 2000. He joined the company (Biotec Pharmacon) as a researcher the same year and the position as Director of R&D and Applications since in 2016. Olav has extensive experience in innovation management and product development. Dr. Lanes is inventor and co-inventor of eight patent- or pending patent families, all today part of the IPR assets in the company. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lanes: 7,000. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lanes: 100,000.
Dr Lorentzen (born 1968) was granted a Dr Scient degree in Biotechnology from University of Tromsø in 2005. She joined the company (Biotec Pharmacon) as a Sr. Research Scientist in 2011 and holds the position as Director of Operations since 2020. She has extensive work experience within laboratory operations, management and research. She is employee elected to The Board of Directors in ArcticZymes Technologies. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lorentzen: 25,331. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Dr Lorentzen: 115,000.
Børge Sørvoll (born 1975) assumed the position as CFO on Oct 1, 2014. He has previous experience from the position as SCM Manager at Subsea 7, and before that as CFO in Front Exploration and as Managing Director of Troms Kraft Invest. Børge holds a "Siviløkonom" degree in Finance from the University of Wyoming. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Sørvoll: 100,428. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Sørvoll: 280,000
Michael Benjamin Akoh (born 1973) joined ArcticZymes as CEO on September 18th, 2023. He has more than 20 years of global experience from the Life Science industry within the IVD, Medical Devices and CRO segments. Michael B. Akoh has had senior roles in both larger cooperations as well as in start-up and scale-up organisations. Most recently he was CCO at Pre Diagnostics and before that he was active as Managing Director of Wieslab AB, where he successfully scaled and grew the existing business as well as led the establishment of a new pharma services business area. Earlier on in his career he worked with commercialization of several successful solutions at Dako (Agilent) and Oticon (Demant). Mr. Akoh has a M.Sc. from Copenhagen Business School (CBS) in International Management and Marketing. Number of shares in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Akoh: 7,660. Number of options in ArcticZymes Technologies held by Mr. Akoh: 200,000