Machelle Sanders

Machelle Sanders is a seasoned executive with over 29 years of progressive pharmaceutical and biotechnology experience. Ms. Sanders is secretary of the N.C. Department of Commerce, appointed by Governor Roy Cooper. In the private sector, Ms. Sanders was most recently responsible for the pharmaceutical operations and technology operational strategy for Biogen’s multiple sclerosis franchise (i.e. AVONEX™, PLEGRIDY™, TECFIDERA™, and TYSABRI™). She held the title of vice president of manufacturing and general manager of the company’s largest and most advanced manufacturing facility in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. Ms. Sanders has also held leadership positions in manufacturing, global quality assurance and quality control at Biogen, Purdue Pharmaceuticals, and Diosynth-Akzo Nobel. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from North Carolina State University and a Master of Health Administration from Pfeiffer University.