New president and CEO appointed to Genome Canada

Ottawa, ON – Genome Canada has announced the appointment of Marc LePage as the organization’s new president and CEO.

“Mr. LePage has deep roots within the Canadian genomics community and a track record of success in advancing this cutting-edge field of science, technology and innovation. His regional, national and international experience, coupled with exceptional fundraising and communication skills, make him extremely well qualified to lead Genome Canada in harnessing the transformative power of genomics for the benefit of all Canadians,” said Lorne Hepworth, the organization’s chair of the board.

Mr. LePage has served as president and CEO of Génome Québec since 2011 where he led a major increase in research activity and enhanced focus on the development of genomic applications within priority sectors of the province.  Prior to this role, he was special advisor (climate change & energy) at the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C. and consul general in the Canadian Consulate in San Francisco/Silicon Valley. In addition, he was executive vice-president of corporate development during the founding of Genome Canada in 2000, and made key contributions to the rapid ramp up the organization, its programs and peer review system.

“Canada has a thriving genomics research enterprise and I am honoured to take on the leadership role of an organization that I know and admire,” he said. “I look forward to working in close partnership with Canada’s six regional Genome Centres, scientists across Canada, and many partners from the public, private and not-for-profit sectors to realize the great potential of genomics for Canada.”