McDermott + Bull has successfully placed Lakita Cavin as Senior Director, Grants & Mission Related Investments at Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF). In her new role, Lakita will manage all aspects of ADDF’s investment portfolio including contract management, negotiations of investments and grants with leading academic institutions, and biotechnology companies. She will manage legal affairs and work in partnership with the finance and science team to ensure contracts for investments are executed.
Prior to joining ADDF, Lakita spent nearly 15 years at the University of Tennessee Research Foundation in roles of increasing responsibility, most recently as a Senior Staff Attorney and Licensing Associate. She graduated with a B.S. in Pre-Medicine and Chemistry from Alcorn State University, a Ph.D. in Chemistry/Biochemistry from Auburn University and a J.D. from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. Her significant experience in scientific research, technology licensing, patent drafting, patent management, contract drafting and negotiation, and knowledge of patent law will serve as a tremendous asset in advancing the investments and mission of Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation.
Founded in 1998 by Co-Chairmen Leonard and Ronald Lauder, the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) is a vibrant, growing nonprofit which funds academic institutions and biotechnology companies conducting breakthrough drug discovery and clinical research through venture philanthropy. Their mission is to accelerate the discovery of new drugs to prevent, treat, and cure Alzheimer’s disease, related dementias, and cognitive aging.
This executive search was completed by McDermott + Bull Partner Sue Waterbury, Senior Recruiter Jessica Combs, and Senior Research Associate Josh Nichols.