bluebird bio Acquired by Carlyle and SK Capital
Slice of Healthcare Team
06/04/2025
Key highlights
- bluebird bio acquired and taken private by Carlyle and SK Capital
- David Meek appointed as new CEO to lead next growth phase
- Focus on commercial scaling of gene therapies for severe genetic diseases
- Leadership team brings extensive biopharma experience
- Investment supports manufacturing, patient access, and market expansion
Notable Quotes
“ Today marks the beginning of a new era for bluebird as its go-forward financial backing and leadership team will better enable all stakeholders to realize the full potential of our revolutionary therapies. ”
David Meek, CEO at bluebird bio
“ We believe providing bluebird the necessary funding along with the new leadership team will help bluebird realize its full potential. ”
Joe Bress, Partner and Global Co-Head of Healthcare at Carlyle
“ We believe our deep collective experience in manufacturing and commercializing therapies can help drive the next chapter of bluebird’s growth. ”
Aaron Davenport, Managing Director at SK Capital
Why This Matters
This acquisition represents a pivotal moment for bluebird bio, signaling a strategic shift toward scaling and commercializing its innovative gene therapies. With the backing of Carlyle and SK Capital, bluebird gains the financial muscle and operational expertise to extend access to lifechanging treatments for patients with severe genetic conditions. The move also underscores the growing investor confidence in gene therapy as a viable and impactful healthcare frontier.
