Cathal Friel

Cathal Friel has a diverse and extensive work experience in various industries. In 2017, they co-founded hVIVO (now hVIVO plc) and served as Chairman, leading the company to become a specialist contract research organization and the world leader in testing infectious and respiratory disease vaccines and therapeutics. Cathal also co-founded Poolbeg Pharma in 2020, focusing on the development of innovative medicines for infectious diseases.

In addition, Cathal founded Raglan Capital in 2007, providing corporate finance and investment banking services before transitioning to creating their own companies. Cathal joined the board at Imutex Limited in 2020, a joint venture aimed at advancing the development of advanced influenza and mosquito-borne disease vaccines. Cathal also served as the Non-Executive Chairman at Venn Life Sciences in 2018 and co-founded Amryt Pharma plc in 2014, a biopharmaceutical company focused on rare and orphan diseases.

Cathal'sprevious roles include serving as the Executive Chairman at Fastnet Oil & Gas plc, Founding Director at Powerscourt Investments, and Director at Merrion Stockbrokers. Cathal was also involved in the Irish Software Association as the Non-Executive Chairman from 2003 to 2005. Throughout their career, Cathal has demonstrated expertise in corporate finance, investment banking, and commercialization of products in various sectors.

Cathal Friel pursued their MBA in International Marketing from Ulster University, where they studied from 1987 to 1990. Prior to that, from 1978 to 1981, they attended Holly Cross College in Falcarragh, Co. Donegal, although their degree and field of study during this time are not specified.