US-based life science research provider Pharmaron raised $280m on Friday from a consortium co-led by Legend Capital, conglomerate Legend Holding’s corporate venturing arm, and private equity fund Citic M&A Fund.
Founded in 2003, Pharmaron provides research and development services for the life sciences industry. It has more than 3,000 employees spread across China, where Legend Capital and Citic are based, and the US and serves companies in North America, Europe, Japan and China.
Pharmaron will invest the money in enhancing and “significantly” expanding its core R&D activities, and sourcing technology that can help it serve its partners and customers.
The company previously raised more than $40m in a 2011 series C round featuring Legend Capital and venture capital firm DCM, both of which participated as existing investors, as well as private equity group GL Capital. It reportedly also raised an undisclosed sum in 2007.
Richard Li, Legend Capital’s managing director, said: “Being one of the first institutional investors in Pharmaron, over the past eight years we have witnessed the growth and achievement of Pharmaron and believe the company is well positioned to become a global leader in the drug R&D services industry.
“With the increased demand for innovative drug products in China, Pharmaron’s international track record and deep Chinese roots uniquely position them to serve the booming and innovative drug R&D community in China.”
Teneo Capital was Pharmaron’s financial advisor to for the deal, while O’Melveny & Meyers and Zhong Lun Law Firm were the company’s legal advisors.