Avacta Group PLC has announced the appointment of Christina Coughlin, MD, PhD, as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective from May 1, 2024. Dr. Coughlin, who has been a Board member since 2022 and Head of Research and Development since February 2024, played a pivotal role in driving the development of the pre|CISION™ platform. This appointment reflects the company's focus on maximizing the value from the pre|CISION™ platform for cancer treatment.

Dr. Coughlin's extensive experience in the industry, including roles at major biopharmaceutical companies such as Wyeth, Pfizer, and Novartis, as well as leadership positions in biotech companies, positions her as the ideal candidate to lead Avacta through the next stage of clinical development and commercialization. Her deep understanding of drug development and clinical experience, particularly in oncology, makes her well-suited to drive the company's strategy and present its innovative technology to the healthcare investor audience, especially in the US.

The company's Chairman, Dr. Eliot Forster, expressed confidence in Dr. Coughlin's ability to lead Avacta's next chapter, emphasizing her skillset, experience, and insight to position the company for the benefit of patients and shareholders. Dr. Coughlin herself expressed excitement about the potential of the pre|CISION™ platform to revolutionize cancer treatment and her commitment to delivering real change for patients and value for shareholders.

The announcement also marks the departure of Dr. Alastair Smith, who served as CEO for 19 years. The Board expressed gratitude for his significant role in the foundation and development of the company. Avacta has been preparing for CEO succession, considering a wide range of candidates, and Dr. Coughlin emerged as the outstanding choice for the role.

The company's focus on improving healthcare outcomes through targeted cancer treatments and diagnostics aligns with Dr. Coughlin's background and expertise, making her appointment a strategic move for Avacta.