Nephron Pharmaceuticals Expands Leadership Team with Key Appointments

Over 170 Years of Combined Experience

Lexington, SC – Nephron Pharmaceuticals Corporation is proud to announce several leadership appointments that highlight the commitment to Transformation, Execution, and Trust in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Austin McDonald has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO), Edwin Rodríguez Schroeder as Executive Vice President of Quality Systems, Cynthia Byland as Senior Vice President, Production Projects and Leadership Strategies, Cassandra Freeman as Supplier Quality Director, Chris Murrin as Director of Human Resources and Employee Benefits, and Vinod Kumar as Vice President of Microbiology. Additionally, Joe Mergo, who has served as Nephron’s COO since 2021, will transition to the role of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Together, these leaders bring over 170 years of combined experience in leadership, operations, and innovation.

Austin McDonald, a seasoned pharmaceutical executive with more than 36 years of global experience, is a recognized expert in sterile manufacturing, facility implementation, and regulatory compliance. As COO, Austin will focus on streamlining operations and driving innovative solutions to ensure Nephron continues to meet the needs of patients, hospitals, and surgery centers.

Joe Mergo, who joined Nephron in 2021, has been instrumental in overseeing the company’s operations. With 25 years of public service, including his tenure as Lexington County Administrator, Joe is known for his steady leadership and ability to navigate complex challenges. As CAO, Joe will focus on administrative strategy and the seamless execution of Nephron’s organizational goals.

Edwin Rodríguez Schroeder, with decades of expertise in regulatory compliance and quality systems, has successfully guided numerous pharmaceutical companies in optimizing their operations and maintaining world-class manufacturing standards. As Executive Vice President of Quality Systems, Edwin will lead Nephron’s quality assurance initiatives and help the company achieve its operational excellence goals.

Cynthia Byland, with more than 25 years of healthcare leadership experience, brings a diverse background in clinical operations, physician engagement, and project management to her role as Senior Vice President, Production Projects and Leadership Strategies. A former U.S. Air Force service member, Cynthia has led strategic cost-savings initiatives, operational enhancements, and performance improvement programs in various healthcare organizations. At Nephron, Cynthia will focus on aligning production projects with leadership development strategies to drive operational success.

Cassandra Freeman, with decades of experience in quality engineering and operations management, joins Nephron as Supplier Quality Director. Her career spans roles at leading companies in automotive and industrial manufacturing, including General Motors, Lear Corporation, and Detroit Manufacturing Systems. Cassandra brings deep expertise in quality control, supplier development, and process improvement. At Nephron, she will focus on ensuring that suppliers meet the highest quality standards and support the company’s operational goals.

Chris Murrin, a U.S. Army veteran with over 11 years of service, brings military precision and leadership to his role as Director of Human Resources and Employee Benefits. During his military career, Chris honed his expertise in training, organizational management, and strategic planning in high-stakes environments. Most recently, he served as Chief Human Resources Officer for Lexington County, where he championed wellness initiatives and staff development programs. At Nephron, Chris will focus on fostering a culture of wellness, growth, and excellence for the company’s workforce.

Vinod Kumar, an experienced microbiologist and subject matter expert in sterility assurance, joins Nephron as Vice President of Microbiology. With extensive experience in both medical and pharmaceutical microbiology, Vinod has implemented robust contamination control programs for sterile manufacturing facilities and has overseen the qualification of high-purity water systems. His leadership will focus on ensuring microbial quality assurance and compliance with regulatory standards in all of Nephron’s manufacturing processes.

“At Nephron, we are building a leadership team committed to transforming how we operate while delivering high-quality medications to those who need them most,” said Lou Kennedy, CEO of Nephron Pharmaceuticals. “With over 170 years of combined experience, Austin, Edwin, Cynthia, Cassandra, Chris, Vinod, and Joe bring unmatched expertise and leadership to our team. Their contributions will ensure we execute with precision and earn the trust of the patients and partners we serve.”

These appointments reflect Nephron’s focus on innovation and operational excellence. With this expanded leadership team, the company is well-positioned to continue setting the standard in pharmaceutical manufacturing.