Interview with Stephen Willard, CEO of NRx Pharmaceuticals

Mr. Willard brings a wealth of experience in the management of publicly traded biotechnology companies, together with his background in law and finance. Most recently, Mr. Willard served as CEO of Cellphire Therapeutics, where he grew the company and shepherded their revolutionary human platelet platform through key clinical trials, growing the company and significantly increasing the share price. Prior to Cellphire, he served as CEO of publicly traded Flamel Technologies now known as Avadel Pharmaceuticals. Mr. Willard is currently serving a six-year term from 2018-2024 as a presidential appointee to the National Science Board.

Mr. Willard’s career in financial services includes government service as Associate Director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), where he served in the United States Senior Executive Service (SES) from 1991-1994, and on the board of E*Trade Financial Services from 2000-2014. He has practiced law in New York, London, and Washington, D.C. Mr. Willard earned his undergraduate degree from Williams College and attended Yale University where he earned a JD in law.

Interview questions:

CEO Introduction | In July, you were appointed CEO of NRx Pharmaceuticals. Please tell me about your background – what led you to join NRx Pharmaceuticals. What has been your past role in government leadership and how has it prepared you for leading NRx Pharmaceuticals.

Suicidal Bipolar Depression | Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain committed suicide within about 3 days of one another, can you give me an idea about the problem you are trying to address? For instance, how many people commit or attempt suicide?

Market Opportunity | What is the opportunity to help those suffering from Bipolar Depression? How big is the market?

Pipeline – Bipolar | Where are you in your clinical trials? When do you expect readouts?

How it Works | Can you share how the drug works? And what’s next?

Exploring PTSD | It appears you are exploring PTSD as a potential treatment plan next. Can you expand on that?

PTSD | What is the rationale for treating PTSD? Are there any approved drugs for PTSD on the market now?

Conclusion | How would you summarize where your strengths are as a company?

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

NRx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. draws upon decades of collective, scientific, and drug-development experience applying innovative science to known molecules to address very high unmet needs and bring improved health to patients. NRx Pharmaceuticals is led by executives who have held leadership roles at Lilly, Pfizer, and Novartis as well as major investment banking institutions.