Scancell Holdings PLC (AIM:SCLP, OTC:SCNLF), the developer of novel immunotherapies for the treatment of cancer and infectious disease, has announced the appointment of Dr Jean-Michel Cosséry as its non-executive chairman with immediate effect.
The company said Cosséry will seek to drive Scancell's strategy for clinical progress and commercial development of its novel immunotherapy vaccine and antibody platforms, noting that he brings to the company over 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries and a sustained global track record of success in commercial operations as well as in capital raising, US and European public offerings, business development and M&A.
In a statement, Professor Lindy Durrant, chief executive officer at Scancell, said: "I speak on the behalf of all of Scancell that we are excited to welcome Jean-Michel and to capitalise on his experience as we continue on our journey to deliver the next stage of growth. I am deeply indebted to John Chiplin for his hard work, support and boundless enthusiasm over the last 7 years which has allowed us to build the company into the strong business it is today."
Scancell noted that Cosséry was vice president for North America Oncology at Eli Lilly, with responsibility for commercialisation of the company's oncology portfolio. Preceding this US-based position, he was vice president and managing director of the Eli Lilly's European Northern Hub, where he was chair of the Eli Lilly UK board and a member of Lilly European Executive Committee. Prior to this, he served as VP and chief marketing officer at GE Healthcare's Global Headquarters.
Following his retirement from Eli Lilly in 2018, Cosséry has served on the board of Kymab until their acquisition by Sanofi. He was also a member of the Immunocore board prior to the company's Nasdaq listing. He currently serves on the boards of Malin PLC, Exact Therapeutics AS, Eracal Therapeutics and Sophia Genetics SA. He has also been chair of The American Pharmaceutical Group in the UK, as well as a board member of the Association of British Pharmaceutical Industry.
Cosséry commented: "I am delighted to be joining the Scancell team at this pivotal time in the company's evolution and to build on the rich history it has in developing four innovate platforms. I am excited about the clinical trials in progress and the life-changing improvement these important novel cancer therapies can bring to patients, while enhancing shareholder value. I look forward to working with the board and the senior management team as we seek to advance Scancell's strategy."
As previously announced, Dr John Chiplin who has served as the company's chairman since 2016, will step down following the appointment of Cosséry.
Dr Chiplin said: "The last 7 years have been transformative for Scancell, I am leaving the company with strong management and exciting prospects ahead. I would like to welcome Dr Jean-Michel Cosséry to Scancell, his extensive experience and accomplishments speak volumes and his expertise in oncology and corporate management will be invaluable as Scancell drive its immunotherapy products through the clinic, with the aim to provide new treatment options for patients with debilitating cancers."