March 9, 2015
By Riley McDermid, BioSpace.com Breaking News Sr. Editor
Tim Mayleben has been COO and CFO at Esperion Therapeutics, Inc. twice—-an unusual circumstance in the revolving door world of C-level biotech suites. He was initially with the company from its founding in 1998, helped raise $200 million in equity capital before it IPO’d in 2000, and was on board when it was sold to Pfizer, Inc. for $1.3 billion in 2004.
Mayleben left in 2009 to become president and CEO of Aastrom Biosciences Inc, but he retired from that position in 2013 to return to Esperion, which Pfizer had since sold back to its original founders, where it is based in the Michigan Life Science and Innovation Center.
BioSpace asked Mayleben about the things that make him tick—and what advice he’d have for someone coming into biotech and life sciences today, particularly if they are aiming for the C-level crown.
1. What’s your hometown and do you get back there often?
I was born in Covington, KY, but lived there only briefly. If I have a home town, it’s Mankato, Minn., where I spent over half my childhood. I don’t get back there very often-–it’s too cold!
2. What was the last book you read and would you recommend it?
The last book I read was “Flash Boys” by Michael Lewis. I would recommend this book to anyone that has ever bought a stock or is thinking about buying a stock.
3. Do you have a pet?
I don’t have a pet at the moment but we’re close to adopting a miniature schnauzer again. We had two miniature schnauzers when our kids were growing up.
4. Favorite food for each season?
Dark chocolate is my favorite food, for all seasons.
5. All-time favorite movie?
My all-time favorite movie is “Caddyshack” with Bill Murray and Chevy Chase among other great characters.
6. How did you meet your spouse?
I met my spouse at work.
7. Hobbies?
Running, swimming, biking – most things fitness related.
8. What’s your favorite part of the day?
Early morning --it’s quiet and it’s a time that I can think through the day ahead along with long-term plans.
9. Do you have a personal hero?
Warren Buffet. He is wise beyond words and successful beyond compare.
10. Best advice for a young person coming into biotech or healthcare today?
Do something that you love and you will be successful. Expect to work hard. Perseverance is required!
