LEERINK Partners, a leading healthcare investment bank, today announced the appointment of Charles G. Ward III to its Board, effective January 25, 2016.

Mr. Ward has more than 30 years of experience in the investment banking industry, having served in senior positions at leading global financial institutions. Most recently, Mr. Ward was a Partner at Perella Weinberg Partners, where he led the US Advisory practice as well as their Emerging Markets activities. Mr. Ward previously served as President of Lazard and Chairman of Lazard’s Asset Management Group. At Lazard, Mr. Ward was responsible for building the firm’s business in emerging markets and led Global Industrials Banking, Global Private Equity and the Capital Markets businesses. Mr. Ward previously served as President of Credit Suisse First Boston, where he was Managing Director and Co-Head of the combined Global Investment Banking and Private Equities division. Prior to Credit Suisse, Mr. Ward was one of four individuals who founded Wasserstein, Perella & Co in 1988 and served as President of the firm from 1990 to 1994. Mr. Ward began his career at First Boston, where he was Co-Head of the M&A department.

“We’re delighted to welcome Chuck to the Board,” said Jeff Leerink, Chairman and CEO of LEERINK Partners. “With his experience of leading and developing world class advisory and asset management businesses, I am confident that Chuck will be a valuable Board member as we continue to identify and advise companies that are changing the future of healthcare.”

Mr. Ward added, “LEERINK Partners has established itself as a leader in healthcare investment banking for their offerings in advisory, strategy and capital. I look forward to joining the Board and helping the organization continue on its path of growth and success.”

Mr. Ward currently serves on the Board of Veritiv Corporation. Mr. Ward received an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA in Economics from Trinity College.

About LEERINK Partners

LEERINK Partners LLC is a leading investment bank, specializing in healthcare. Our knowledge, experience and focus enable us to help our clients define and achieve their strategic, capital markets and investment objectives. We partner with companies that develop and commercialize innovative products and services that are defining the future of healthcare. LEERINK Partners LLC is a member of FINRA/SIPC. For more information, please visit: www.leerink.com.