John L. Higgins, born in 1968, has an impressive background in finance and a strong grip on corporate leadership. He graduated with an A.B. in Economics from Colgate University. Higgins has been driving Ligand Pharmaceuticals as its CEO since January...

John L. Higgins, born in 1968, has an impressive background in finance and a strong grip on corporate leadership. He graduated with an A.B. in Economics from Colgate University. Higgins has been driving Ligand Pharmaceuticals as its CEO since January 2007, leading the company through various phases of growth and restructuring. His tenure saw the shift of the company towards innovative pharmaceutical solutions, largely focusing on business development and clinical advancements. Before joining Ligand, he was the Chief Financial Officer at Connectics Corporation, a public specialty pharmaceutical company. Beyond his role at Ligand, Higgins also serves on the board of Biocryst Pharmaceuticals, further showcasing his expertise in the biotech sector. His leadership style emphasizes aligning executive pay with company performance, aiming for transparency and motivation among management. Interestingly, his total compensation peaked at over $6.3 million in 2018, while in 2022, he received a modest $730,455 due to his retirement from the CEO position later that year. He's been recognized for his strategic vision in corporate development, steering Ligand towards significant licensing agreements and partnerships that have bolstered the company’s market presence.