Abasi Ene-Obong, co-founder and CEO of 54gene, has announced his resignation.
The news comes just two months after the company laid off 95 employees, accounting for 30% of its workforce.
54gene is a company that conducts genomics research, services, and development.
The company’s general counsel said in a statement on Tuesday that it has appointed Teresa Bost as interim CEO, who will be supported by Delali Attipoe, chief operating officer.
According to the company, Ene-Obong will remain on the board of 54gene while taking on the role of senior advisor.
“Abasi has decided to step down as CEO, but will remain involved in the company’s future plans, such as strategic partnerships and fundraising.” We can’t say what new interests he’ll pursue, if any, but we wish him well and still consider him a valuable team member,” 54gene said.
Ene-Obong, for one, believes the startup is in good hands because Bost and Attipoe “have deep insight into the workings of 54gene.”
He also stated that he would continue to give the company his full support.
“I have always believed that the magnitude of genetic diversity in Africa and other highly diverse populations will materially impact our understanding of biology and lead to better medicines and interventions for the global population,” he said.
“I’d like to thank the 54gene board of directors for their years of support, as well as the many talented scientists and technology professionals I’ve had the pleasure of working with during my time at the company.”
“I will continue to support the company and the scientific ecosystem in general, especially the African genomics ecosystem.” Teresia and Delali bring decades of building and scaling experience.
