China-based biotech Everest Medicines (HKG: 1952) has announced the appointment of a new CEO, Rogers Yongqing Luo, effective immediately. Luo replaces Dr. Kerry Blanchard, who resigned in August this year.
Luo’s Background and Experience
Luo joins Everest Medicines from Brii Biosciences, where he served as president and General Manager (GM) for Greater China and CEO of TSB Therapeutics. In this role, he oversaw the development of China’s first COVID-19 neutralizing antibody. Prior to Brii Biosciences, Luo was the China GM for Gilead Sciences for four years, following government affairs and marketing positions at Roche and Novartis.
Future Outlook and Portfolio Focus
Luo’s appointment comes as Everest Medicines refocuses its portfolio development. The company recently sold Asian rights to Trodelvy (sacituzumab govitecan) back to Gilead Sciences/Immunomedics. Everest’s remaining pipeline includes respiratory drug Nefecon (targeted-release budesonide), antibiotic Xerava (eravacycline), autoimmune disease drug etrasimod, and a range of mRNA vaccines led by EVER-COVID19-M1, designed for use as a booster shot.-Fineline Info & Tech
