Matthew Durdy will step down in June 2027 after nearly 15 years with the organisation, including seven years as CEO, as the Board begins its search for a successor.
Matthew Durdy has announced his intention to retire as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult (CGT Catapult) in June 2027, following nearly 15 years with the organisation, including seven years in the role.
Durdy joined CGT Catapult at its inception in 2012 and has been part of its leadership team throughout its development. During this time, the organisation has supported the growth of the UK advanced therapies sector by helping to build the infrastructure, capabilities and partnerships needed to support the development and delivery of life-changing CGTs to patients.
Reflecting on his tenure, Durdy said: “When I joined the Catapult at its inception, the UK had world-class science but no real industry to match it. Today, we have both — we have patients receiving therapies, developed and manufactured here, that would have been impossible a decade ago.”
He attributed this progress to collaboration across the sector, saying: ”None of that is mine; it has been the work of an extraordinary team across the Catapult, our partners in the NHS, academia, Innovate UK, industry, and the patient community. I am proud of what we have built together, and I remain fully committed to the organisation and its mission over the coming months.”
Jim Faulkner, Chair of CGT Catapult, described Durdy as a “defining figure in the UK’s advanced therapies story”, crediting his leadership with helping the organisation become an internationally respected institution and supporting the development of a UK cell and gene therapy industry capable of competing globally.
The Board will begin the search for a successor, with Coulter Partners appointed to assist with the process. Durdy will remain in post until June 2027 to support the transition.
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