Inventiva: Chris Benecchi Appointed Chief Operating Officer Ahead of Phase 3 NATiV3 Results
The biopharmaceutical company entrusts operational management to a pharmaceutical industry executive as it approaches the results of its pivotal Phase 3 NATiV3 study, expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Operational Leadership Ahead of Phase 3 Results
Inventiva (Euronext Paris and Nasdaq: IVA) announced on August 31, 2026 the appointment of Chris Benecchi to the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO).
According to the press release, Chris Benecchi will lead the company's operational preparation as it approaches the results of the pivotal Phase 3 NATiV3 study evaluating lanifibranor in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.
A potential launch of lanifibranor in the United States, subject to regulatory approval, is anticipated in 2028. The company states it is strengthening its organization, infrastructure and commercial capabilities in view of this possible commercialization.
Thirty Years of Experience in the Biopharmaceutical Sector
Chris Benecchi brings 30 years of experience in the biopharmaceutical sector, in commercial, operational and strategic leadership roles.
He recently held the position of Chief Executive Officer of Motric Bio, a company within Aditum Bio. Previously, at Sage Therapeutics, he held successive positions as Chief Operating Officer, Chief Business Officer and Chief Commercial Officer, playing a role in the United States launch of Zurzuvae. He also led the global launch preparation of Bimzelx (bimekizumab) at UCB and oversaw worldwide launch preparation activities at Alexion for a portfolio of treatments in rare diseases.
He held commercial leadership positions at Acorda Therapeutics, Takeda Pharmaceuticals and Johnson & Johnson. He holds an MBA from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business and a Bachelor of Arts from Colby College.
