CHRIS McKendrick has been recruited by WSA Healthcare (WSAH) as its first CEO.
Established in 2018 by David Watson and Shaz Ahmed, the Scottish-based progressive healthcare group offers new therapeutic approaches, including the use of stem cells, to transform and improve longevity and quality of life.
WSAH operates three early-stage companies in the healthcare and life sciences sector. Its first company, in 2018, was regenerative medicine specialist Foys Medical, followed by research company ExonGenics and, in 2020, PPE Direct Scotland.
Chris’ appointment marks a major step forward in WSAH’s plans, providing the corporate expertise it needs to realise its ambitious business strategy. The COVID period has accelerated its business plans as demand for its ethically sourced PPE rose substantially, enabling the company to advance plans to open the UK’s first dedicated stem cell clinic on the outskirts of Glasgow in 2022.
Chris has substantive experience of implementing growth strategies and leading businesses from the ground up to become global, multi-million pound brands. Sought-after by private equity companies and business founders, his track record for success includes the restructuring and exponential growth of companies such as Evans Cycles, Cath Kidson and Arran Aromatics, while latterly working with PG Paper to devise plans to support its continued entrepreneurial growth.
David Watson, WSAH Co-Founder, said:
“We are now into year three of our business and growing rapidly, so this is the right time to introduce a CEO. Having established an ethical approach to our PPE supply business, the success of that operation has made it possible to move ahead with our plans to create a centre of excellence for regenerative medicine and stem cell research in Scotland ahead of schedule. Chris’s proven expertise and experience for putting in place the corporate structures that deliver value and direction is exactly what we need to build our business with strength and purpose for both domestic and international markets.”
Taking up the new role, Chris said:
“This is an exciting time to join WSAH. We are living in a health crisis and there’s a new understanding of the importance and significance of our immune systems. WSAH’s new therapies, as part of Scotland’s burgeoning life science sector, may previously have been regarded as dreams for the future and out of reach for the majority. But no longer – the clinic will be a major step towards making innovative therapies available for all, transforming lives. I look forward to working with David and Shaz to build a successful operation that will realise that ambition.”
