Geno Hires New Chief Legal Officer

Genomatica (Geno) has hired its first chief legal officer. Shawnte Mitchell will fill the new role at the sustainable ingredients company. Mitchell brings nearly two decades of experience helping innovative biotech companies scale which, along with her legal expertise and strategic insights, is “a powerful addition to the Geno team as it partners with major global brands to lead the sustainable materials transition,” according to the San Diego-based company.

“Shawnte has an impressive track record helping companies in the life sciences and biotechnology industries achieve meaningful impact,” said Geno CEO Christophe Schilling. “She's an astute leader working to be part of the solution to protect and create a more sustainable future. Shawnte's experience building world-class legal teams will be essential to fueling our trajectory as we work to lead the materials transition to reduce fossil fuel consumption and combat the climate crises.”

Mitchell has an extensive background helping biotech innovators provide complex solutions to grow their business. She was previously executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary at Zogenix, where she helped the public company achieve a successful exit through an acquisition by global biopharmaceuticals industry giant UCB. Before Zogenix, Mitchell served as senior vice president, general counsel for corporate affairs and chief compliance officer at Aptevo Therapeutics Inc., a biotech company focused on bringing novel immuno-oncology therapeutics to market.

At Geno, Mitchell will be responsible for growing the legal team and serving as a trusted partner as the company continues to scale.

She joins Geno during a year of high-impact deals that are bringing the company's sustainable materials to more brands and consumers, including a $120 million joint venture with Unilever to scale a plant-based alternative for palm oil.