Managing an early-stage life science company requires vision, expertise, patience and commitment. Mike’s strong background in pharma and biotech company management enables him to bring a unique perspective to new deal opportunities and existing portfolio companies.

Mike has been a Venture Partner with Pappas Capital since January 2010 and served as a member of the firm's Board of Advisors from 2004 to 2010. Mike currently serves as Chairman of Mirum Pharmaceuticals (a Pappas Ventures V portfolio company), as Executive Chair of Plexium, Sorriso Pharmaceuticals, Spruce Biosciences, Theolytics, and Reneo Pharmaceuticals (a Pappas Ventures V portfolio company that he co-founded), and as a director for Horizon Therapeutics (NASDAQ: HZNP). In 2011, he spearheaded the founding of Lumena Pharmaceuticals (a Pappas Ventures IV portfolio company), and served as CEO until it was acquired by Shire plc in 2014. Prior to Lumena, Mike was President and CEO of Auspex Pharmaceuticals, and President and CEO of SGX Pharmaceuticals until its sale to Eli Lilly. Prior to joining SGX in 2001, Mike served as President and CEO of Trega Biosciences until its acquisition by Lion Bioscience. He also served as President of BioChem Therapeutics, the pharmaceutical arm of BioChem Pharma, from 1994 to 1998, and served as President and COO for Ansan during 1994. From 1974 to 1993, Mike served in various roles with Glaxo Holdings plc and Glaxo Inc., including positions as Vice President of Corporate Development and head of worldwide business development.

Mike previously served as CEO and subsequently Executive Chair of Amplyx Pharmaceuticals (a Pappas Ventures V portfolio company), which was acquired by Pfizer. He also previously served as a director for BioMarin Pharmaceutical (NASDAQ: BMRN), Mirati Therapeutics (NASDAQ: MRTX) (a Pappas Ventures III portfolio company), Balance Therapeutics (a Pappas Ventures IV portfolio company), Selventa (a Pappas Ventures II portfolio company), Biothera Pharmaceutical, Ziarco Pharma (acquired by Novartis), and three public companies, SGX Pharmaceuticals, IDM Pharma and Achillion Pharmaceuticals.

Education:

University of Nottingham, United Kingdom (BS in Chemistry)