BIO Appoints Veteran Communications Leader Sarah Alspach as Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer
Today, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) named Sarah Alspach as its new executive vice president and chief communications officer. Alspach, a communications veteran, will join BIO’s senior leadership team. Her first day will be December 9.
“Sarah brings remarkable passion, experience, relationships and creative insights to this important role here at BIO,” said BIO President & CEO John F. Crowley. “She has led some of the very best story-telling and communications campaigns in our industry that describe the power of biotechnology to transform lives. Her appointment further strengthens BIO’s commitment to the virtuous circle of biotech-driven innovation, our efforts to support and collaborate with the patient community, and our work to help bring to market solutions to improve human health and our environment. We are excited to welcome Sarah to our team.”
Alspach joins BIO from Massachusetts-based bluebird bio, one of the world's leading gene therapy companies. While at bluebird, Sarah oversaw external affairs – including corporate communications, government affairs and patient advocacy – for the FDA approval and launch of three gene therapies, including a first-of-its-kind therapy for sickle cell disease. Prior to bluebird, Alspach served as chief communications officer for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. She also led integrated communications initiatives at GSK for over 10 years.
"Every day, biotech firms persevere in the face of incredible odds, guided by their mission to overcome devastating and intractable illnesses, answer our greatest environmental challenges, and strengthen and protect the communities where we live and work,” said Alspach. “I'm thrilled to join the talented team at BIO to tell these stories, to connect the experiences of patients and families with policy leaders in Congress, state capitals, and around the world, and to help researchers and innovators everywhere improve the lives of all those they aim to serve."
Alspach will join BIO’s Senior Executive Team, which is composed of the leaders of the association’s eight Centers of Excellence, including Health Care Policies & Programs, Agriculture & Environmental Policies & Programs, Patient Advocacy, Communications, Business Operations, Federal Government Affairs, State Government Affairs and Legal.
Crowley also thanked Scott Frotman, Senior Vice President, Public Affairs, for his work as Interim Chief Communications Officer. “Scott’s leadership has been critical for BIO for many years and especially over the transition this past year. I am pleased that he will continue in his leadership role at BIO working closely with Sarah on our communications efforts ahead,” added Crowley.