XORTX Therapeutics Appoints Financial Services Veteran Depesh Narotam As Independent Director

XORTX Therapeutics Inc., a late-stage clinical pharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative treatments for gout and progressive kidney disease, has appointed Depesh Narotam to its Board of Directors as an independent director. The appointment became effective on July 27, 2026, and is expected to strengthen the company's governance with his extensive experience in financial services and strategic lending.

Narotam brings more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, where he has built strong expertise in debt financing and delivering strategic lending solutions for a wide range of clients. Throughout his career, he has developed in-depth knowledge of the real estate lending sector, helping drive market expansion, establish strategic partnerships, and support long-term business growth and performance.

The Board of Directors has determined that Narotam qualifies as an independent director under applicable Nasdaq listing standards and Canadian securities laws. In addition to joining the Board, he has also been appointed to the company's Compensation, Governance and Nominating Committee, where he will contribute to corporate governance and leadership oversight.

Narotam is based in British Columbia, Canada, and has served as Mortgage Development Manager at Vancity since December 2020. Vancity is Canada's largest community-based credit union and operates as a member-owned financial cooperative. In his current role, he has been involved in developing lending strategies and strengthening relationships with clients and business partners.

Before joining Vancity, Narotam spent 16 years at Westminster Savings Credit Union, now known as Prospera Credit Union. During his tenure, he held several leadership positions, including Mortgage Specialist and Business Development Manager, where he gained extensive experience in mortgage financing, business development, and client relationship management.

With his appointment, XORTX adds a seasoned financial services professional to its Board as the company continues advancing the development of therapies for patients living with gout and progressive kidney disease while strengthening its corporate governance and long-term growth strategy.