Leadership Shifts and Strategic Moves Shape Pharmaceutical Landscape

In a week marked by significant leadership changes and strategic developments, the pharmaceutical industry continues to evolve rapidly. From cell therapy experts taking on new roles to the emergence of promising startups, the sector is witnessing a flurry of activity that promises to shape its future direction.

Cell Therapy Veterans Find New Homes

Steve Gavel, a seasoned cell therapy executive, has been appointed as the Chief Commercial Officer at Cabaletta Bio. This move comes just months after his brief stint at Orca Bio, following a six-year tenure at Legend Biotech. Gavel's extensive experience, including his role in launching the CAR-T therapy Carvykti in partnership with Johnson & Johnson, positions him as a valuable asset in Cabaletta's commercial strategy.

In a similar vein, Ashvattha Therapeutics has tapped Robert Dempsey as its interim CEO. With over two decades of experience in ophthalmology, including building out Shire's eye care franchise, Dempsey is set to guide Ashvattha through a critical phase. The company recently received FDA approval for its phase 2b/3 clinical trial design in two eye disease indications, marking a significant milestone in its development pipeline.

Strategic Appointments and Emerging Players

Alentis Therapeutics, a Swiss biotech focusing on claudin-1-targeting antibodies for fibrosis and cancer, has brought on Mark Pruzanski, M.D., as its new CEO. Pruzanski, known for founding Intercept Pharmaceuticals and leading the development of liver disease medicine Ocaliva, brings a wealth of experience to the role.

Meanwhile, the allergy-focused startup Excellergy has emerged with a $70 million Series A funding round. The company is led by CEO Todd Zavodnick, co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer Geoffrey Harris, Ph.D., and Chief Medical Officer Philip Brown, M.D., signaling a strong leadership team backing its ambitious plans.

Industry Giants Make Strategic Moves

Established players are also making noteworthy changes. Geron Corporation is welcoming Ahmed ElNawawi from Novartis Oncology as its new Chief Commercial Officer, replacing the departing Jim Ziegler. This transition comes alongside the departure of longtime Chief Operating Officer Andrew Grethlein, Ph.D., indicating a significant shift in Geron's executive team.

In a move towards innovation in research practices, Charles River Laboratories has formed a new scientific advisory board led by former FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner Namanjé Bumpus, Ph.D. This initiative aims to guide the company's strategic shift toward animal testing alternatives, reflecting growing industry trends in ethical and efficient research methodologies.