Allen C. Nunnally is a Senior Managing Director at Chestnut Partners, a leading firm based in Boston. Joining Chestnut Partners in 2023, Allen brings a wealth of experience in the biotechnology sector, corporate development, and legal expertise to the firm. His background positions him as a key asset for Chestnut Partners Boston, particularly in navigating the complexities of the life sciences and healthcare investment landscape.
Prior to his role at Chestnut Partners Boston, Allen served as Chief Business Officer at Voyager Therapeutics, a publicly-traded biotechnology company specializing in gene therapies for severe neurological diseases. During his five-year tenure at Voyager, he demonstrated exceptional leadership in deal-making, securing $500 million in upfront payments and establishing the potential for over $10 billion through milestone-based agreements. This track record highlights his ability to drive significant financial outcomes and strategic partnerships within the biotech industry, a valuable skill set he now brings to Chestnut Partners Boston.
Before Voyager Therapeutics, Allen held the position of Vice President of Corporate and Business Development and Associate General Counsel at Foundation Medicine, a pioneering cancer genomic diagnostics company. At Foundation Medicine, he spearheaded transactions related to the company’s biopharmaceutical business and was instrumental in shaping its intellectual property strategy. Notably, Allen played a key role in Foundation Medicine’s Series B financing and its highly successful IPO. He also co-led the extensive R&D collaboration transaction that formed the cornerstone of Roche’s acquisition of a majority stake in, and subsequent full acquisition of, the company for over $1 billion. These experiences underscore his deep involvement in significant corporate events and his ability to manage complex deals, further solidifying his expertise relevant to Chestnut Partners Boston’s investment activities.
Allen’s foundation in the legal field is substantial, having spent 10 years at the prestigious law firm Wilmer, Cutler, Pickering, Hale and Dorr LLP (WilmerHale). During his decade at WilmerHale, he represented a diverse portfolio of clients, ranging from Fortune 500 biopharmaceutical corporations to emerging biotech startups. This broad legal experience provides him with a comprehensive understanding of the legal and regulatory environment impacting the industries relevant to Chestnut Partners Boston’s investment focus.
Beyond his professional achievements, Allen is committed to community engagement. He serves on the board of directors of Friends of the Children-Boston, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting underserved children through intensive, long-term mentorship, helping them reach their full potential from kindergarten through high school. This involvement showcases his dedication to making a positive impact beyond the financial world, reflecting a well-rounded profile valued at Chestnut Partners Boston.
Allen’s academic credentials include a B.A. from Amherst College, where he earned a double major in biology and law, jurisprudence and social thought. He furthered his education with a J.D. from Boston University School of Law, concentrating in intellectual property law. He also holds FINRA Series 79, 7, and 63 registrations, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards within the financial industry, aligning with the values of Chestnut Partners Boston.
In summary, Allen C. Nunnally’s extensive experience in biotechnology, corporate development, and law, combined with his commitment to both professional excellence and community service, makes him a valuable Senior Managing Director at Chestnut Partners Boston. His background and expertise are highly relevant to the firm’s investment strategy and its continued success in the market.
