Apple Tree Partners: Pioneering Life Science Investments with Expert Leadership

Apple Tree Partners (ATP) stands as a formidable force in the life science investment sector, renowned for its strategic investments and deep industry expertise. Founded in 1999 by Seth Harrison, ATP has consistently backed groundbreaking companies and technologies that are shaping the future of healthcare. This article delves into the leadership and key personnel driving Apple Tree Partners’ success, highlighting the profound experience and vision that define this leading venture capital firm.

Meet the Visionaries at Apple Tree Partners

At the heart of Apple Tree Partners is a team of highly accomplished individuals, each bringing decades of experience in various facets of life sciences, from drug discovery and development to corporate operations and investment strategy. This collective expertise allows Apple Tree Partners to identify and nurture promising ventures, guiding them towards significant advancements and market leadership.

Seth Harrison – The Architect of Apple Tree Partners

Seth Harrison is not only the founder but the managing partner of Apple Tree Partners. His journey in life science investing began in 1991, marking over three decades of commitment to the industry. Before establishing ATP, Seth honed his skills as a venture partner at Sevin Rosen Funds and later as a general partner at Oak Investment Partners. His early investment portfolio is a testament to his keen eye for potential, including companies like Aileron Therapeutics and Akero Therapeutics, showcasing his early bets on what have become significant players in the biotech space. His investment acumen extends to companies such as ArQule, Corvidia Therapeutics (later acquired by Novo Nordisk), and Stoke Therapeutics, illustrating his consistent ability to identify and support ventures with transformative potential.

Seth’s current board memberships reflect his ongoing commitment to the companies he believes in. He actively serves on the boards of Akero Therapeutics and Stoke Therapeutics, as well as all portfolio companies incubated within Apple Tree Partners’ current fund, demonstrating his hands-on approach to guiding company growth. Beyond his investment activities, Seth contributed to global health as a board member of the International Partnership for Microbicides from 2002 to 2010, focusing on women’s health and HIV prevention. His academic credentials include an AB from Princeton University, and MD and MBA degrees from Columbia University, complemented by a surgery internship at the Presbyterian Hospital in New York City, providing a robust foundation for his venture endeavors at Apple Tree Partners.

Operational Excellence Led by Marie-Therese Afif

Marie-Therese Afif, Head of Operations at Apple Tree Partners, is instrumental in ensuring the firm’s smooth and efficient functioning. With over 30 years of experience, Marie-Therese brings unparalleled expertise in operations, administration, human resources, legal, and compliance matters. Her tenure with Apple Tree Partners spans over 13 years, including her involvement since the firm’s inception in 1999, highlighting her deep-rooted commitment and understanding of ATP’s operational DNA. Prior to ATP, she contributed nearly a decade to the hedge fund H/2 Capital Partners, further broadening her financial acumen. Marie-Therese’s educational background from Kantonsschule Heerbrugg, Lehrerseminar in Switzerland, and a certificate in financial analysis from New York University equip her with a unique blend of skills critical for overseeing the operational backbone of Apple Tree Partners.

Investment Team: Jake Bieber-Dishart and Jonathan Blanc

Jake Bieber-Dishart, an Associate at Apple Tree Partners, plays a crucial role in identifying and evaluating promising therapeutic targets. His expertise is vital in the due diligence process that Apple Tree Partners rigorously undertakes before investment. Jake’s introduction to biotechnology investing at RTW Investments, where he assessed novel drug targets, laid the groundwork for his analytical approach at ATP. His academic achievements include a PhD in bioengineering from a joint program at the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of California, San Francisco. His doctoral research, focused on developing a high-throughput gut organoid system for drug toxicity screening, earned him the prestigious ARCS scholarship, underscoring his innovative mindset and technical skills that are highly valued at Apple Tree Partners.

Jonathan Blanc, a Senior Associate at Apple Tree Partners, brings 15 years of experience in corporate value creation and transaction execution. Before joining Apple Tree Partners, Jonathan was Director of Corporate Strategy and Portfolio Analytics at Acceleron Pharma, where he was instrumental in strategic planning, capital allocation, and asset valuation. His prior role as a Director in PwC’s Deals practice, providing valuation and advisory services to life science companies, further solidifies his expertise in financial strategy and deal-making within the industry. Jonathan’s academic foundation includes a BA in economics and an MA in international economics and finance from Brandeis University. He is also a CFA charterholder and a member of both the Boston Security Analysts Society and the CFA Institute, credentials that highlight his deep financial expertise and commitment to professional excellence at Apple Tree Partners.

Oncology Leadership: Raj Chopra

Raj Chopra leads oncology initiatives as Head of Oncology and Venture Partner at Apple Tree Partners. His distinguished career includes leading the Cancer Research UK Cancer Therapeutics Unit at The Institute of Cancer Research in London, one of the largest academic drug discovery groups globally. His focus on targeted protein degradation and advanced 3D cell culture models underscores his commitment to cutting-edge cancer therapeutics. Raj’s industry experience includes roles at Celgene as Corporate Vice President of Translational and Early Drug Development, and leadership positions at AstraZeneca’s Oncology Therapeutics group. His academic beginnings as Director of Hematological Oncology at Christie Hospital and group leader at the Paterson Institute for Cancer Research further root his expertise in both clinical and research aspects of oncology. Raj’s involvement with Artios Pharma and Monté Rosa Therapeutics as a non-executive director and co-founder, respectively, highlights his entrepreneurial drive in the biotech sector. He holds a PhD in medicine, cell, and molecular biology from University College London and is a Fellow of multiple Royal Colleges and Societies, reflecting his high standing in the medical and scientific community, which significantly enriches Apple Tree Partners’ oncology investment strategy.

Clinical and Medical Expertise: Paul Eisenberg

Paul Eisenberg, Chief Medical Officer and Venture Partner at Apple Tree Partners, offers over 30 years of profound experience in drug development across various therapeutic areas. His extensive career includes significant leadership roles at Eli Lilly and Amgen. At Eli Lilly, he held key positions in Cardiovascular Discovery and Translational Medicine, drug development, commercialization, and drug safety. Subsequently at Amgen, he led Global Regulatory and Safety and was involved in the development and global registration of all Amgen products from 2006 to 2014. Paul also headed Amgen’s Global Medical Affairs, addressing challenges in access to innovative therapies and representing Amgen in PDUFA V negotiations. His early research focused on thrombosis mechanisms in ischemic heart disease, contributing to novel anti-thrombotic therapies. With an MD from New York Medical College and an MPH in tropical medicine from Tulane University, along with professorship at Washington University and directorship of the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Barnes-Jewish Hospitals, Paul’s academic and clinical background significantly enhances Apple Tree Partners’ medical and scientific evaluations.

Financial and Legal Foundations: William Engels and Daniel Finkelman

William Engels serves as the Chief Financial Officer for Apple Tree Partners, bringing robust financial leadership to the firm. Prior to joining ATP, Bill was CFO and CCO of Cohesive Capital Partners, a private equity co-investment firm. His experience also includes roles at Centerbridge Partners and Clarus Ventures, a life sciences venture capital firm. Starting his career at Ercolini & Company, a public accounting firm, Bill is a Certified Public Accountant in New York and holds a BS in accounting and finance from Northeastern University. His comprehensive financial background is crucial for Apple Tree Partners’ fiscal strategy and management.

Daniel Finkelman, General Counsel for Apple Tree Partners, brings over 45 years of legal expertise in corporate and partnership law, specializing in private investment funds. His career includes representing funds that have raised over $50 billion in committed capital. Dan has been Apple Tree Partners’ principal funds counsel for 20 years, joining after retiring as a partner at Proskauer Rose. His JD and MBA from Columbia University provide a strong foundation for his legal and business acumen, making him an invaluable asset to Apple Tree Partners in navigating the complexities of investment law.

Strategic Communications: Sally Jacob

Sally Jacob, Head of Communications for Apple Tree Partners, commands 25 years of experience in biopharmaceutical corporate affairs and life sciences communications. Her previous role as VP of Communications at Pfizer’s Medical and Global Product Development divisions involved leading strategic initiatives in research transparency and public health education. She also spearheaded communications for the launch of SpringWorks Therapeutics, a Pfizer spinout focused on rare diseases. Earlier in her career, Sally led corporate brand communications for Amgen and held positions at Bristol-Myers Squibb. Her academic credentials include an AB in history from Princeton University and an MA in English from Cornell University, equipping her with the skills to effectively articulate Apple Tree Partners’ mission and achievements to a broad audience.

Scientific and Entrepreneurial Venture Partners

Apple Tree Partners is further strengthened by a team of Venture Partners and Entrepreneurs in Residence, each contributing specialized scientific and entrepreneurial skills:

Matthew P. Jacobson: A Venture Partner and co-founder of Nine Square Therapeutics, Matthew is a leading figure in computer-aided drug design and computational structural biology. His co-founding of Global Blood Therapeutics and Relay Therapeutics highlights his entrepreneurial success.
Paul Da Silva Jardine: As a Venture Partner, Paul brings 25 years of experience from Pfizer Research, where he led teams that developed multiple clinical candidates and FDA-approved medicines. His founding of Staten Biotechnology and role in creating programs for Chinook Therapeutics showcase his drug discovery and entrepreneurial expertise.
Neena Kadaba: An Entrepreneur in Residence, Neena is a science-driven investor with 15 years of experience in building strategic partnerships. Her board roles at Eyevensys, IOME BIO, and Calcimedica, and her experience at Quark Venture and QB3, demonstrate her investment and startup acceleration skills.
Spiros Liras: A Venture Partner with a career in leading scientific innovation at Biogen and Pfizer, Spiros has a strong background in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery. His work on cutting-edge drug discovery concepts enhances Apple Tree Partners’ scientific strategy.
Stephanie Maiocco: As a Scientist in Residence, Stephanie focuses on protein engineering and has contributed to innovative protein technology platforms at Akrevia Therapeutics and Elstar Therapeutics. Her expertise in protein design and assay development is crucial for evaluating biotech ventures.
Mark Mitchnick, MD: A Venture Partner with three decades in drug product development, Mark has founded and exited three companies, including sunSmart and Particle Sciences. His inventions and entrepreneurial success in digital health and drug delivery add diverse expertise to Apple Tree Partners.
John F. Reilly: An Entrepreneur in Residence and CSO at Nereid Therapeutics, John has over 20 years of biopharmaceutical leadership experience. His roles at Goldfinch Bio, Catabasis Pharmaceuticals, and Novartis demonstrate his expertise in target discovery and translational strategy.
Victor Rusu: A Principal at Apple Tree Partners, Victor focuses on emerging targets and technologies, with expertise in cell biology and functional genomics. His background in biotech equity research and at Jnana Therapeutics enhances ATP’s investment analysis in novel therapeutic areas.
Brian Vash: An Entrepreneur in Residence specializing in protein engineering, Brian has extensive experience in designing and producing novel proteins. His leadership at Elstar Therapeutics and contributions at Novartis in biologics and protein therapeutics strengthen Apple Tree Partners’ technical capabilities.

Special Advisors and Leadership Support

Vern Norviel: As a Special Advisor, Vern is a partner at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich and Rosati, specializing in IP strategies for life science companies. His decades of experience and roles at Perlegen Sciences and Affymetrix provide invaluable legal and strategic counsel to Apple Tree Partners.
Eva Zhou: Head of Talent, Eva brings over a decade of experience in executive search, building leadership succession and talent acquisition strategies at Biogen and Korn Ferry. Her expertise in identifying and fostering top-tier talent is crucial for Apple Tree Partners and its portfolio companies.

Conclusion

Apple Tree Partners distinguishes itself through its exceptional team—a collective of seasoned professionals whose diverse expertise spans the entire spectrum of life science investment and development. From the foundational leadership of Seth Harrison to the specialized skills of each team member, Apple Tree Partners is exceptionally positioned to continue leading and shaping the life science investment landscape, driving innovation and fostering the growth of companies that are making a significant impact on global health. Their commitment to expertise, experience, and strategic insight solidifies Apple Tree Partners’ position as a premier partner in the life science industry.