Calidi Biotherapeutics has selected Eric Poma, Ph.D., as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership transition for the biotech company focused on innovative cancer therapies. Poma, who will assume the role on April 22, brings over three decades of industry experience to guide the company's next phase of clinical development.
With an extensive background in biotechnology leadership, Poma previously held key roles at Molecular Templates, where he demonstrated substantial fundraising and partnership capabilities. During his tenure at Molecular Templates, he successfully raised over $250 million and established strategic partnerships with prominent pharmaceutical companies including Takeda, Vertex, and Bristol Myers Squibb.
The leadership change comes at a critical juncture for Calidi Biotherapeutics, which is preparing to advance its systemic virotherapy platform. The company is poised to initiate a dose-escalation trial for CLD-201, its investigational therapeutic targeting solid tumors. Poma's expertise is expected to be instrumental in navigating the complex landscape of clinical-stage oncology research and development.
Calidi's innovative approach centers on utilizing stem cell-based platforms designed to enhance the immune system's ability to combat cancer. The company's proprietary technology involves using allogeneic stem cells as carriers for oncolytic viruses, with potential applications in treating high-grade gliomas and other solid tumors. This unique platform aims to protect, amplify, and potentiate oncolytic viruses, potentially improving treatment efficacy and patient safety.
The transition sees former CEO Allan Camaisa transitioning to a Board member role, ensuring continuity of strategic vision while welcoming Poma's fresh perspective. This leadership shift underscores Calidi Biotherapeutics' commitment to advancing its preclinical off-the-shelf enveloped virotherapies, which are designed to target disseminated solid tumors and potentially prevent metastatic disease.
As the biotechnology sector continues to evolve rapidly, Poma's appointment signals Calidi's strategic intent to accelerate its clinical development trajectory. His proven track record of securing funding and establishing critical industry partnerships positions the company to potentially make significant strides in cancer treatment research.
