Derek Rapp, who has led global type 1 diabetes research organization JDRF since 2014, announced his intention to leave the post at some point next year at which time he’ll join the organization’s board.
“We are very grateful for the profound effect Derek has had on the mission of JDRF and the lives touched by T1D over his decades-long commitment to our organization both as a volunteer and executive leader,” said Ellen Leake, chair of the board of the New York City-based JDRF via a statement. “He reinvigorated the organization, advanced our mission, improved field operations, and helped build best-in-class research and advocacy teams worldwide, and we are excited that he and his family plan to remain an important part of JDRF as volunteers.”
“It has been an honor to lead the outstanding teams at JDRF, and I’m excited about our continued progress toward a world without T1D,” said Rapp via that same statement. “It’s clear there is still work to be done and in a world with ever-changing challenges and opportunities, it’s imperative to have fresh perspectives and new energy. JDRF is energized and stronger than ever, and we are poised to leverage exceptional changes in healthcare and life sciences as I pass the baton to the next leader.”
The board plans to recruit “a seasoned nonprofit leader who will build capacity and further accelerate our programs,” added Leake. “We all see the potential to leverage big data, form strategic partnerships, and continue to drive commercial investment during a time of great challenges and opportunities in life sciences and technology.”
JDRF, which went by the name Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation until 2012, has consistently reported total revenue of $200 million since the start of this decade, including a high of almost $220 million in 2014. For the fiscal year 2017, JDRF reported total revenue of $202,253,797 and net assets of $77.3 million. According to the organization’s federal Form 990, Rapp earned base compensation of $725,000 during 2017 with “other” income of $48,715.
Rapp was appointed in June 2014, succeeding Jeffery Brewer, who was CEO since 2010. Before leading JDRF, Rapp had been the mergers and acquisitions lead for Monsanto Company. He previously served 10 years as CEO of Divergence, Inc. a start-up biotechnology company.
