COSCIENS Biopharma appoints Anna Biehn as new CEO amid leadership change

With over 25 years of experience in biopharma and consumer products, Anna Biehn will officially assume the CEO role at COSCIENS Biopharma on May 5, 2025.

Leadership transition scheduled for early May

COSCIENS Biopharma Inc. (NASDAQ: CSCI, TSX: CSCI), a company focused on the development and commercialization of health and wellness products sourced from natural ingredients, has announced a significant leadership change. Anna Biehn, who has more than two decades of experience in the consumer goods and life sciences sectors, will take over as Chief Executive Officer, replacing Gilles Gagnon, who has served in the role since 2008. The leadership transition will become effective on May 5, 2025.

Biehn brings strategic and operational expertise

Throughout her career, Anna Biehn has held key positions at companies that prioritize natural-based product development. She previously served as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Strategy and Marketing at NuTek Natural Ingredients, where she focused on integrating consumer insights into product development. Her background also includes leadership roles at Conagra Brands, along with board memberships at various organizations, which have contributed to her broad understanding of business growth and strategy.

Statement from the board and outgoing CEO

Ronnie Miller, Chairman of the Board at COSCIENS Biopharma, stated, "We trust in Biehn's ability to lead the company into its next phase of growth." Following the leadership transition, Gilles Gagnon will remain with the company in a strategic advisory capacity. He commented on Biehn’s appointment, highlighting her achievements in bringing natural products to market and expressing confidence in her capacity to guide the company within the evolving life sciences sector.

COSCIENS Biopharma, formed through the merger of Aeterna Zentaris and Ceapro Inc., maintains a diverse portfolio including cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals. The company is recognized for its proprietary plant-based extraction technologies, which support product development for both skincare brands and potential pharmaceutical applications.