Paws and profits: Gallant announces new members to its board of directors

This October, National Veterinary Associates, a global network of more than 1400 veterinary hospitals, specialty practices, and pet resorts, announced a new head of enterprise transformation with extensive experience in data and analytics. Meanwhile, the animal health biotechnology company Gallant, has added 2 new members to its board of directors.

Continue reading to learn more about each of these individuals.

Sean McDonald, head of enterprise transformation, National Veterinary Associates

Earlier this month, the National Veterinary Associates (NVA) appointed Sean McDonald as its head of enterprise transformation. In his new role, McDonald is contributing to modernizing the company’s systems, scaling digital capabilities, and accelerating decision-making backed by data.

In his most recent role, McDonald was the chief financial officer for Aon’s Global Enterprise Client Group and Innovation portfolio, where he developed new operating models and implemented governance structures to help drive commercialization. In other prior roles, McDonald worked in investment banking and corporate development at Robert W. Baird & Co., Optum, and Citadel Investment Group.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Sean to NVA’s Executive Leadership Team,” John Bruno, CEO of NVA, said in a company release.¹ “Sean brings a wealth of experience in leveraging data and analytical insights to drive process and operational innovation that delivers strategic growth. He is a well-respected leader and trusted problem solver, known for unifying teams and inspiring excellence across global organizations.”

Misti Ushio, PhD, Board of Directors, Gallant

Recently, Gallant, which develops ready-to-use stem cell therapies for pets, added Misti Ushio, PhD, to its Board of Directors. Ushio has more than 25 years of experience in biotechnology and is the founding CEO of the startup TARA Biosystems, later acquired by Valo Health, known for developing lab-grown human cardiac tissue for drug development. Ushio has also held leadership roles at Harris & Harris Group, where she led life sciences investments. She has also worked at Merck, where she helped develop vaccines and biologics.

Currently, Ushio is a managing partner at Digitalis Ventures and is a lead investor in Gallant. “Building a new therapeutic category requires talent, technology, and a great deal of passion. Gallant has it all," Ushio said in a news release.² "As an investor, I've been impressed by how quickly the team is advancing [their ready-to-use stem cell therapy for refractory feline chronic gingivostomatitis] through clinical trials and the FDA process, and I'm excited to support them more directly as they prepare to go to market—shifting care from managing symptoms to targeting disease at its source."

Doug Drew, MBA, Board of Directors, Gallant

In addition to Ushio, Doug Drew, MBA, also joined Gallant’s Board of Directors. Drew previously served as global president of Mars Veterinary Health, leading the network of more than 3000 veterinary hospitals through a global expansion. During his tenure, he also directed a $500 million initiative at Mars to support workforce career development, diversity, and practice operations.

“Gallant's therapy...fits seamlessly into daily practice and, most importantly, addresses a real gap for pets with many common and underserved conditions. I'm looking forward to contributing to a company that's making regenerative medicine part of routine veterinary care," Drew said in a Gallant news release.

In the same announcement, Gallant’s CEO, Linda Black, DVM, PhD, commented on both Misti’s and Drew’s appointments. “Misti is a veteran biotech executive who knows how to turn complex science into category-defining products, and Doug has spent his career listening to veterinarians and delivering tools they trust. Their voices reflect both sides of what we're building—scientific excellence and practical impact. I'm grateful to partner with them as we move toward commercialization," she said.²

References

1. National Veterinary Associates Appoints Sean McDonald as Head of Enterprise Transformation. News release. October 1, 2025.
2. Biotech and Veterinary Innovators Dr. Misti Ushio and Doug Drew Join Gallant Board of Directors. News release. Gallant. October 7, 2025. Accessed October 28, 2025. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/biotech-and-veterinary-innovators-dr-misti-ushio-and-doug-drew-join-gallant-board-of-directors-302576626.html