LEO Foundation and Nordic Capital partner up to further strengthen LEO Pharma’s leading position in medical dermatology
In 2020, LEO Pharma launched its 2030 strategy with the ambition to be a global leader in medical dermatology by expanding its leading branded topical dermatology franchise and developing a deep, innovative pipeline. To support the company’s long-term objectives and ambitious growth strategy, the LEO Foundation now welcomes Nordic Capital as a new active minority owner. Nordic Capital will invest EUR 450 million in LEO Pharma and support the 2030 strategy in partnership with the LEO Foundation who will remain the company’s majority shareholder.
“The partnership with Nordic Capital is a strong confirmation that LEO Pharma is an exceptional company with a valuable heritage in topical dermatology that has clear potential to grow into a leader in innovative therapies,” said Jesper Mailind, CEO of the LEO Foundation. “I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to welcome Nordic Capital onboard. With Nordic Capital we have secured a supportive and seasoned partner going forward with deep medical expertise and a strong track record supporting value creation in innovative healthcare businesses globally. Further, their strong Scandinavian heritage lends itself to a common cultural understanding and approach. I am confident that the partnership will further enhance the considerable growth potential of LEO Pharma, and it is a natural next step on LEO Pharma’s journey.”
Nordic Capital is one of the most active and experienced investors in healthcare globally. The firm has a strong track record of investing in innovative companies and building industry leaders in close partnership with management teams and co-owners. Since inception in 1989, Nordic Capital has invested more than EUR 7 billion in 29 healthcare investments across Europe and North America. Within pharmaceuticals, Nordic Capital’s current and previous investments include Acino, Nycomed, Fougera, Biovitrum and Meda. Today, Nordic Capital has 14 portfolio companies in the broader healthcare sector with c. 44,000 employees and aggregate revenues in excess of EUR 6 bn.