Meet the Operator Behind Katogen

Doug Drysdale is a biopharma operator, strategic advisor, and Founder of Katogen, where he partners with biotech leaders, investors, and founders to translate scientific innovation into real-world business outcomes. With over 35 years in healthcare and pharmaceuticals, Doug is known for bridging the gap between rigorous science and practical execution - bringing an “operator mindset” grounded in P&L accountability, capital strategy, and company building. His work today focuses on advancing mental, metabolic, and neurological health while helping organizations scale, navigate complexity, and unlock long-term value.

Over nearly two decades as a CEO, Doug built and turned around four companies - two public and two private - leading 17 acquisitions across three continents and raising over $4.5 billion in capital. As CEO of Cybin, he took the company from molecule inception to Phase 3 trials in just three years, advancing breakthrough therapies in mental health. Previously, as Founding CEO of Alvogen, he scaled the company to $500 million in revenue across 35 countries in under six years. At Pernix Therapeutics, he led a successful turnaround, growing enterprise value from $80 million to $800 million, and earlier in his career, he drove global M&A at Actavis, leading 15 acquisitions and raising $3 billion.

In addition to his advisory work at Katogen, Doug serves as a board member and corporate advisor across the biopharma landscape, working closely with companies advancing next-generation therapeutics and drug delivery platforms. He is a recognized voice in mental health innovation, neuro-metabolic science, and longevity, frequently contributing insights through speaking engagements, media, and his monthly newsletter, Katogen Insights. Known for his thoughtful and optimistic perspective, Doug emphasizes evidence-based progress, scientific rigor, and long-term impact over short-term hype. Doug holds a degree in Microbial and Molecular Biology from the University of East Anglia and was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Having worked across more than 70 countries, he brings a global perspective to leadership, innovation, and the future of healthcare.