Calidi Biotherapeutics has appointed Eric Poma, Ph.D., as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a strategic leadership transition aimed at advancing the company's innovative cancer treatment platform. Poma, who assumes the role on April 22, brings over three decades of biotechnology leadership experience to the position.
With a proven track record from his previous role at Molecular Templates, where he raised over $250 million and secured strategic partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies like Takeda, Vertex, and Bristol Myers Squibb, Poma is well-positioned to guide Calidi's clinical development efforts. The leadership change comes at a critical juncture as the company prepares to launch a dose-escalation trial for CLD-201, a potential breakthrough in treating solid tumors.
Calidi Biotherapeutics specializes in developing innovative stem cell-based platforms designed to enhance the immune system's ability to combat cancer. The company's unique approach involves using allogeneic stem cells that can carry oncolytic viruses, potentially offering more effective and safer treatments for various oncological indications, including high-grade gliomas and metastatic solid tumors.
Poma's appointment suggests a strategic focus on advancing the company's preclinical off-the-shelf enveloped virotherapies, which aim to target disseminated solid tumors. This approach could represent a significant step forward in cancer treatment, potentially offering new hope for patients with challenging and complex cancer diagnoses.
The leadership transition, with Allan Camaisa remaining on the Board of Directors, indicates a carefully planned succession strategy designed to maintain continuity while bringing fresh strategic vision to the company's clinical development efforts.
