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San Francisco, California – June 10, 2024 – OKAVA, a clinical stage company focused on diseases of aging in dogs and cats, is pleased to announce the appointment of Kevin Fick and Jim Thompson to its Board of Directors. Additionally, Arlene Morris has joined as a strategic advisor. These appointments bring a wealth of industry expertise and leadership to support OKAVA’s mission of advancing veterinary medicine.
Jim Thompson, Independent Director
Jim Thompson joins the Board with over 25 years of proven success in omni-channel retail. He brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight to OKAVA.
Jim Thompson’s impressive career includes roles as Vice President, President, CEO, and Board Director. Most recently, he served as Chief Revenue Officer at Chewy.com, the leading online source for pet products, supplies, and prescriptions in the US. Under his leadership, Chewy experienced significant growth following its IPO in 2019. Currently, Jim serves on the Board of Primal Pet Foods, a leading manufacturer of premium pet food.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jim to our Board,” said Michael Klotsman, CEO of OKAVA. “His unique insights in the pet sector and the evolution towards on-line Rx distribution channels will be extremely valuable as we advance our clinical programs and work towards our mission of advancing pet health.”
Kevin Fick, Executive Chair
OKAVA is pleased to announce the appointment of Kevin Fick as Executive Chairman of the Board. With over 25 years of experience in the pet industry, Kevin is a highly recognized leader known for his strategic vision and impactful leadership.
Kevin Fick most recently served as CEO at Petwise Brands, where he spearheaded the growth of one of the leading platforms in the pet supplies market. Under his leadership, Petwise Brands achieved significant milestones that culminated in its acquisition by A&M Capital Partners. In addition to his role at OKAVA, Kevin currently serves on the Boards of the American Pet Products Association and the Joybound People & Pets Foundation, contributing to the advancement of the pet industry as a whole.
“Adding Kevin’s perspective and experience to our Board is a significant step forward for OKAVA,” said Michael Klotsman, CEO of OKAVA. “His deep knowledge of the pet sector and proven track record of driving growth will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of extending high-quality life in dogs and cats.”
Arlene Morris, Strategic Advisor
Arlene Morris joins as a strategic advisor. Arlene brings over 30 years of expertise in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, making her a valuable addition to the OKAVA team.
Arlene has an extensive background in leadership roles across the biotech sector. She has led public biotechnology companies as the Chief Executive Officer of Syndax Pharmaceuticals and as President and Chief Executive Officer of Affymax. In addition to her executive roles, Arlene has significant board experience, currently serving on the boards of publicly traded companies including Cogent Biosciences, Palatin Technologies, TC BioPharm, Viridian Therapeutics, and Edgewise Therapeutics. She also serves on the Board of the Charleston Animal Society.
“With over 30 years of exceptional leadership experience in the biotech industry, we are delighted to welcome Arlene as a strategic advisor,” said Michael Klotsman, CEO of OKAVA. “Arlene brings invaluable expertise in strategic development and operational excellence, and we are grateful to have her join us in our mission to improve the lives of pets affected by serious chronic diseases.”
These new appointments come at a pivotal time for OKAVA, as the company advances its pipeline assets towards FDA and EMA approval. The enhanced Board of Directors will play a crucial role in guiding the company’s strategic direction and ensuring continued progress towards its objectives.
For More Information:
Michael Klotsman, PhD, MBA Chief Executive Officer at OKAVA
Phone: 415.818.1808
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