Biotalys, an agricultural technology company developing protein-based biocontrol solutions for crop and food protection, recently appointed seasoned agricultural executive Kevin Helash as the company’s new chief executive officer (CEO). Helash, currently CEO of EnviroKure, will take on his new responsibilities upon termination of his current engagement, at the latest on December 1. Helash will replace Patrice Sellès, who will then step down from his position as CEO and director in mutual agreement with the company. Sellès has agreed to remain in an advisory role for 30 days from the end of his appointment to ensure a smooth transition.

Helash’s nomination as director will be proposed for confirmation at the next shareholders meeting.

Simon Moroney, chairman of the board of directors of the company, stated: “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Patrice for his tireless efforts for Biotalys over the last four years. Under his leadership, Biotalys has become a widely respected public company, well-positioned to help change farming practices to create a sustainable and safe food supply. I look forward to welcoming Kevin Helash as the company’s new CEO.”

Moroney continued, “Kevin comes with deep experience and a successful track record in our industry, including the commercialization of biological products in North America and Europe, which will be instrumental as we prepare to introduce our first biocontrol Evoca to the U.S. market, once regulatory approval is obtained. As the company is entering its next growth phase, he is ideally qualified to drive the execution of Biotalys’ business plan.”

Kevin Helash is currently the CEO of the U.S. biostimulants and biofertilizers company EnviroKure, which he has been leading for the last year. A results-driven corporate executive, Helash brings more than 30 years of international experience developing and executing aggressive growth strategies while controlling costs and enhancing profitability. His experience spans commercializing numerous breakthrough technologies in the agricultural industry on a global scale, including in positions as CEO of Marrone Bio Innovations - previously listed on Nasdaq - and Agrinos, and as vice president and corporate officer of Agrium (now Nutrien).

“I’m delighted to become the new CEO of Biotalys and look forward to leading the company to commercialization with the planned market introduction of its series of biocontrol product candidates,” said Helash. “Biological agents will play a central role in transforming the crop protection industry and with its unique capabilities, Biotalys is ideally positioned to become a major player in this market.”

Patrice Sellès commented: “I am very proud of what we have achieved at Biotalys over the last few years, including major partnerships in research, development and distribution, the breakthroughs in production capabilities and the listing on Euronext Brussels. I would like to thank the whole Biotalys team for their enthusiasm and dedication during my tenure as CEO and wish them the best under the new leadership.”