Chris York is a seasoned legal executive with extensive experience guiding global biopharmaceutical organizations through complex regulatory, operational, and corporate environments. As general counsel and chief of staff at Orchard Therapeutics, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the company’s legal strategy while supporting executive leadership in advancing the organization’s mission to deliver transformative gene therapies to patients with severe genetic diseases.
In his dual capacity, Chris oversees all legal, compliance, and corporate governance matters, ensuring alignment with evolving regulatory frameworks across international markets. He brings a pragmatic, solutions-oriented approach to risk management, enabling the company to navigate the unique challenges of the biotechnology sector. As Chief of Staff, he partners closely with the executive team to drive strategic initiatives, enhance organizational efficiency, manage board engagement, as well as identify, prioritize, and support key business priorities.
In his role, Chris helped negotiate and structure the $477 million acquisition of Orchard Therapeutics by Kyowa Kirin and took a critical leadership role to support business combination efforts following the transaction closing in January 2024.
Prior to joining Orchard Therapeutics, Chris was a member of the Mergers & Acquisitions group at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Affiliates, where he advised clients on strategic transactions, SEC reporting and compliance, and corporate governance matters.
Chris is recognized for his ability to integrate legal insight with business strategy, fostering cross-functional collaboration and contributing to sustainable growth. He earned a Juris Doctor from Boston University School of Law and completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Richmond where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy, politics, economics and law.