CordenPharma Names Dr. Jean‑Luc Herbeaux as New CEO to Drive Next Growth Phase

Basel‑based CordenPharma, a leading global pharmaceutical CDMO, said on 15 September 2026 that Dr. Jean‑Luc Herbeaux will step in as chief executive officer starting 1 October. The move marks the start of a new chapter for the company after more than a decade of rapid expansion.

Herbeaux arrives from Hovione, where he spent four years at the top as CEO after previously serving as COO. Before that he cut his teeth at Evonik, holding several senior positions in specialty chemicals and sustainable materials. In short, he brings a deep operational background in the CDMO world and a track record of scaling complex, global businesses.

He will inherit a platform that has grown from a €245 million revenue base to over €1 billion under the stewardship of Dr. Michael Quirmbach. Quirmbach, who led CordenPharma since 2019, will not disappear; he will stay on the board and act as senior advisor, offering continuity and strategic guidance.

“I’m excited to join CordenPharma at this pivotal moment,” Herbeaux said in a statement. “My focus will be clear – execute our growth plans with discipline, deepen our partnerships with customers, and keep strengthening the capabilities they rely on to bring life‑saving medicines to patients worldwide.”

Quirmbach reflected on his 12‑year journey, noting, “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together. The company is in a strong position for its next phase, and I look forward to supporting the team from the board.”

The leadership transition coincides with recent strategic moves, including the acquisition of peptide CDMO AmbioPharm and ongoing investments in manufacturing capacity across the United States, Europe and Asia. Today CordenPharma employs roughly 3,500 people and supports customers from early‑stage development through commercial production.