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CAMBRIDGE, Mass. & SALISBURY, England – KalVista Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: NASDAQ:), known for its development of small molecule protease inhibitors, has announced a significant leadership change as it transitions towards becoming a commercial entity.
The company has appointed Benjamin L. Palleiko as its new Chief Executive Officer and a member of the board, effective immediately. The change comes as the company prepares to file a New Drug Application (NDA) with the U.S. FDA for its hereditary angioedema (HAE) treatment, sebetralstat, in the first half of 2024.
Palleiko, who has been with KalVista since 2016, previously serving as the President, Chief Business Officer, and Chief Financial Officer, succeeds Andrew Crockett, who has stepped down as CEO and a board director.
This executive shift is part of a planned transition that aligns with the company’s evolution following the success of its KONFIDENT Phase 3 trial for sebetralstat, which is positioned as the first potential oral, on-demand therapy for HAE.
Brian J.G. Pereira, MD, Chairman of the KalVista Board of Directors, expressed confidence in Palleiko’s ability to lead the company through this pivotal phase, citing his extensive tenure and experience. Palleiko’s background includes more than 25 years in the industry, encompassing a decade in investment banking and senior executive roles in various biotechnology companies. He also has a military background as a Naval Aviator in the US Navy.
The company’s NDA filing for sebetralstat is on track for the first half of 2024, with additional filings in Europe and Japan anticipated in the second half of the year. Sebetralstat represents a significant advancement in HAE treatment, offering a new oral, on-demand therapeutic option.
KalVista’s focus remains on addressing diseases with substantial unmet needs through the development of its oral protease inhibitors. The company’s oral Factor XIIa inhibitor program is also highlighted as a promising new generation of therapies for HAE and other conditions.
This leadership transition and the upcoming regulatory filings mark a crucial period for KalVista as it moves towards commercialization and expansion of its product offerings. The information in this article is based on a press release statement from KalVista Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
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