Julie O´Neill

 

Professional Summary

 

Julie O'Neill, based in Ireland, has built an impressive career as a leader and advisor in the life sciences sector, holding several significant positions across prominent organizations. She offers a wealth of experience, having navigated through various influential roles, from executive to non-executive positions.

 

Educational Background

 

O'Neill began her educational journey at Trinity College Dublin, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy. Her pursuit of higher education continued at University College Dublin, where she completed an Executive MBA. She further augmented her credentials by becoming a Chartered Director through the Institute of Directors, equipping her with the skills needed for high-level governance and strategic roles.

 

Career Highlights

 

Throughout her career, O'Neill has held a series of influential positions. Her most recent endeavors include serving as the Chairperson at HOOKIPA Pharma Inc. since August 2024, where she has also been a Non-Executive Director since November 2018. In addition, she chairs NIBRT (National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training) and has been a board member for Advancion Sciences (formerly ANGUS Chemical Co) and Achilles Therapeutics plc since 2021.

Julie O'Neill's expertise extends to international arenas, having served as a Non-Executive Director at DBV Technologies in Paris and at ICON plc in Dublin. She concluded a significant tenure at ILC Dover in June 2024, where she was also a Non-Executive Director. Moreover, she contributed to Ireland's National Treasury Management Agency by serving on the Strategy Committee for the State Claims Agency from August 2020 to February 2023.

Julie’s early career includes pivotal roles at Alexion Pharmaceuticals, where she served as Executive Vice President of Global Operations from 2015 to 2018, and before that as Senior Vice President and General Manager for Ireland. Notably, she spent seventeen years at Gilead Sciences as the VP of Operations and General Manager for Ireland, showcasing her long-term commitment and ability to oversee large-scale operations. Additionally, her earlier roles included positions at Helsinn Birex Pharmaceuticals Limited and Burnil Pharmacies Limited, cementing her foundational expertise in pharmaceuticals and operations management.

 

Leadership and Influence

 

Julie O’Neill’s career illustrates a consistent trajectory of leadership and influence in the life sciences sector, underpinned by substantial academic achievements and extensive industry experience. Her roles demonstrate a robust capacity for strategic oversight, governance, and operational leadership within both listed and private companies in various international markets.