OKYO Pharma Brings On Experienced Leader Robert J. Dempsey As CEO To Advance Neuropathic Corneal Pain Therapy Development

OKYO Pharma Limited, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for neuropathic corneal pain (NCP) and inflammatory eye diseases, has announced an immediate leadership transition. Robert J. Dempsey has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer, while Gary S. Jacob, Ph.D., will move into the role of Chief Development Officer and continue serving on the company’s Board of Directors.

Robert J. Dempsey brings more than twenty years of global ophthalmology experience to OKYO Pharma, including expertise in drug development, commercialization, and large-scale strategic transactions. He previously served as Group Vice President and Head of Global Ophthalmology at Shire, prior to the company’s acquisition by Takeda. During his time at Shire, he played a key role in the divestiture of Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5%, which became one of only three ophthalmology transactions in the last two decades to secure over $1 billion upfront. 

The sale of Xiidra to Novartis in 2019 generated $3.4 billion upfront with an additional potential $1.9 billion tied to milestone payments. Xiidra was the first FDA-approved therapy to address both signs and symptoms of dry eye disease and went on to become one of the most successful branded treatments globally. Dempsey also led the launch of Xiidra and previously managed commercial operations for Restasis (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05%. His experience is supported by a strong professional network in the eye care sector and leadership roles across several ophthalmic companies.

The transition is expected to support OKYO Pharma’s ongoing strategic plans and strengthen its progress as the company moves into its next phase of growth. A major priority will be advancing its lead program, urcosimod, which is being developed as a treatment for neuropathic corneal pain and other inflammatory conditions affecting the eye, an area in which no FDA-approved therapy currently exists.

Gabriele Cerrone, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors at OKYO Pharma, expressed appreciation for Dr. Jacob’s leadership over the past four years, noting his contributions to shaping the company’s clinical strategy and establishing its position in ophthalmology innovation. He added that Robert Dempsey’s involvement in the commercialization of major therapies like Xiidra and Restasis brings valuable strategic and commercial insight that will support the advancement of urcosimod.

In his remarks, Robert Dempsey said he is honored to lead OKYO Pharma and build on the foundation created by Dr. Jacob and the team. He emphasized the significant unmet needs in neuropathic corneal pain and inflammatory eye diseases and expressed his commitment to using his experience in global ophthalmology to accelerate the development of urcosimod and support the company’s broader strategic goals.

Dr. Jacob stated that leading OKYO during a transformative period has been a privilege and that he looks forward to contributing as Chief Development Officer and continuing to serve on the Board. He described Robert Dempsey’s appointment as an important step for the company, pointing to his extensive experience in drug development and commercialization as key strengths for OKYO’s future progress.