#USA #Atlanta #COPD #Altesa BioSciences #Brett Haumann

Altesa BioSciences Welcomes Brett Haumann as New CEO

Altesa BioSciences, a pioneering clinical-stage pharmaceutical company, has announced the appointment of Dr. Brett Haumann, MBBCh, MBA, as its new Chief Executive Officer. This major leadership transition comes at a pivotal time for the company, which is focused on developing innovative treatments for chronic lung diseases, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma.

A Leader with Extensive Experience

Dr. Haumann brings with him over three decades of experience in respiratory medicine. He has previously held various senior roles, including CEO at RIGImmune and Chief Medical Officer at Circassia and Theravance Biopharma. Dr. Haumann's extensive background in building and leading global respiratory and anti-infective programs makes him a fitting choice for Altesa at this crucial moment in its growth.

Having been a non-executive member of Altesa’s Board, Dr. Haumann seamlessly transitions into this executive role during a period of accelerated momentum following the initiation of a critical clinical trial and a successful Series B financing round, which raised $75 million. The company recently launched its Phase 2b CARDINAL study, assessing vapendavir's effectiveness in treating rhinovirus infections in COPD patients.

Moncef Slaoui, Chair of the Board, praised Dr. Haumann's vision and operational excellence, aligning perfectly with Altesa's objectives to enhance treatment options for patients suffering from chronic lung conditions. The move is seen as pivotal in advancing the company's late-stage assets and broadening its impact in the medical field.

What is Vapendavir?

Vapendavir is an investigational oral medication developed by Altesa BioSciences, which has shown promising results during a recent Phase 2a trial. This preliminary research indicated that vapendavir improved symptoms, reduced illness duration, and helped maintain small airway function in COPD patients exposed to rhinovirus. If approved, the drug could potentially transform the treatment landscape for COPD exacerbations caused by viral respiratory infections, enhancing the quality of life and reducing healthcare costs significantly.

The Importance of the CARDINAL Study

The CARDINAL study, which is in its Phase 2b stage, is a multinational, randomized, placebo-controlled trial that aims to enroll 900 COPD patients across the U.S. and U.K. The study is designed to reflect real-world treatment models, focusing on identifying and supporting patients at the greatest risk of exacerbation due to rhinovirus infections.

Participants in the trial will be closely monitored over a set period. They will be randomized to receive either one of two doses of vapendavir or a placebo upon confirming a rhinovirus infection. The primary goal is to assess improvements in respiratory symptoms using established patient-reported outcomes. Additional endpoints will evaluate the time to symptom resolution, overall quality of life, healthcare resource utilization, and lung function metrics.

Commitment to Patients

Dr. Haumann expressed a deep commitment to Altesa's mission, highlighting the potential for vapendavir to make a significant difference in the lives of patients with chronic respiratory diseases. He sees the company's exceptional team and innovative science as key factors driving progress this year, especially with the successful initiation of the Phase 2b CARDINAL study.

As the new CEO, Dr. Haumann is focused on ensuring that the advancements made are not only meaningful but also strategically aligned with the company's goals to better serve patients who have long been underserved in medical care. His leading role at Altesa BioSciences signals a promising future for the company and the patients it aims to help.

In summary, the appointment of Brett Haumann as CEO is a significant milestone for Altesa BioSciences, setting the stage for groundbreaking advancements in the treatment of chronic lung diseases and ensuring that patients receive the most effective care possible.