Eagle Genomics Ltd, the Cambridge-based bioinformatics consultancy, has changed CEO as it bids to accelerate its progress.

David Flanders replaces founding CEO, Abel Ureta-Vidal, who remains as full time chief operating officer.

Flanders brings more than 25 years' international experience in the bioinformatics and life sciences sector. He will strategically lead company growth as it capitalises on the multi-sector need for bioinformatics services arising from recent advances in sequencing technologies.

Ureta-Vidal will focus on operations to support growth and to maintain Eagle’s reputation for high-quality project delivery to customers.

Flanders said: “I was immediately impressed by how professional the Eagle team is, and how dedicated they are to delivering excellent service to their customers. I look forward to working with them to expand into new areas and diversify their already impressive customer portfolio of major international biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.”

Ureta-Vidal added: “After over three years as CEO, it is now the right time for a more experienced executive to bring the company to the next level. I am pleased to welcome David and look forward to working with him as Eagle enters a period of rapid growth.

“In my role as COO, I shall focus on internal efficiency and front-line project delivery to ensure that Eagle’s customers continue to get the best quality service.”

Flanders is former site head for the UK operation of a US R & D and manufacturing biotechnology company and also COO of a proteomics and systems biology start-up, as well as senior director of a major bioinformatics provider.

He has US experience both in the agricultural technology industry and at Stanford University.

• PHOTOGRAPH SHOWS: Former CEO at Eagle Genomics, Abel Ureta-Vidal takes up the Chief Operating Officer role at the company