Crédit Agricole Private Equity Expands Biotechnology Team

Crédit Agricole Private Equity's venture capital division has strengthened its biotechnology focus with the addition of two new investment professionals. Alexia Perouse joined as Investment Director in January 2005, and Guillaume Dupont joined as Business Manager at the end of 2004.

The biotechnology portfolio, established four years ago, currently comprises 12 European companies. Investments have been made in partnership with other investors, including Sofinova and Axa PE, focusing on new therapeutic approaches in cancer, asthma, and infectious diseases, as well as opportunities in production, medical technology, and pharmaceuticals.

Perouse brings extensive experience in the life sciences sector. Her prior roles include heading research at Chiron Vaccines and working at Sofinova Partners, where she was involved in identifying opportunities and making investment decisions within the sector.

Dupont's background includes a degree from Ecole Polytechnique and a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from Stanford University, where he conducted research. He also has experience from the chemicals division at Syngenta.

Crédit Agricole Private Equity is the asset management company of Crédit Agricole S.A., specializing in private equity investments in unlisted companies across various segments. The firm advises business managers on their growth plans.