AI startup Anthropic on Tuesday added India-origin Vas Narasimhan, Chief Executive Officer of Novartis, to its board of directors, making him the first executive from the pharmaceutical industry to join the company’s governing body.

Vas Narasimhan has joined Anthropic’s board alongside Dario Amodei, Daniela Amodei, Jay Kreps, Reed Hastings, and other members. His appointment marks the company’s second board addition this year, following the induction of Chris Liddell in February.

Narasimhan was nominated by the Anthropic Long-Term Benefit Trust—an independent governing body whose members hold no financial stake in the company—highlighting Anthropic’s unique oversight structure.

The AI firm is also reportedly considering an initial public offering (IPO), which could take place as early as this year, signaling its growing ambitions in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence space.

“Vas brings a truly rare combination of expertise and leadership to our board,” said Daniela Amodei, Co-founder and President of Anthropic. “He has overseen the development and approval of more than 35 breakthrough medicines, navigating one of the most highly regulated industries while delivering real impact for patients worldwide. At Anthropic, we are deeply focused on ensuring that powerful AI technologies are developed and deployed safely, responsibly, and at scale. This is something Vas has consistently achieved throughout his career, balancing innovation with rigorous standards and global responsibility. We’re incredibly excited and grateful to have him join us at this important stage of our journey.”

The Anthropic Long-Term Benefit Trust functions as an independent governing body, with members who do not hold any financial stake in the company, reinforcing a structure designed to prioritize long-term impact and responsible decision-making.