Faron Pharmaceuticals Oy has announced the appointment of Dr. Juho Jalkanen as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective from May 1, 2024. Dr. Jalkanen, who has been with the company since 2006, brings a wealth of experience, having served in various roles, including Chief Operating Officer. He holds an MSc in International Business Administration & Economics, an MD, and a PhD in Molecular Medicine and Vascular Surgery. Dr. Markku Jalkanen has stepped down from his role as Chief Executive Officer but will continue as a member of the board of directors.
Dr. Jalkanen's appointment has been well received by the company's Chairman of the Board, Tuomo Patsi, who expressed confidence in Dr. Jalkanen's ability to lead the company through its pivotal phase, particularly as they advance the bexmarilimab development program and approach key milestones. Dr. Jalkanen's significant shareholding in the company, approximately 1.42% of the issued share capital, and his options further align his interests with the company's success.
Faron Pharmaceuticals Oy's investigational immunotherapy, Bexmarilimab, is a focal point for the company. It is designed to reprogram myeloid cells to activate anti-tumor immunity in hematological and solid tumor microenvironments. By targeting the Clever-1 receptor on macrophages, bexmarilimab aims to alter the tumor microenvironment, reprogramming macrophages from an immunosuppressive state to an immunostimulatory one, thereby sensitizing cancer cells to standard care and priming the immune system to attack tumors.
For more information, investors can contact Faron Pharmaceuticals directly or their investor contacts at LifeSci Advisors, ICR Consilium, Cairn Financial Advisers LLP, Peel Hunt LLP, and Sisu Partners Oy.