Santhera appoints new CFO

Swiss biopharmaceutical company Santhera Pharmaceuticals has named Catherine Isted as its new chief financial officer. 

She replaces Andrew Smith, who is stepping down after five years and will assist in the transition.

Catherine brings over 25 years of experience in life sciences finance, corporate development and investment banking. 

She was previously chief financial officer at BenevolentAI and chief executive officer and chief financial officer of ReNeuron Group. 

Her career also includes senior roles at Oxford Biomedica and investment banking firms such as Morgan Stanley and Nomura.

Catherine said: “I am delighted to be joining Santhera at such an exciting time in the company’s evolution as we establish ourselves as a global leader in DMD, making a real difference to patients worldwide. 

“I look forward to working alongside Dario and the leadership team to build on this momentum, drive commercial success and deliver value to both patients and shareholders."

Her appointment comes as Santhera continues its commercial expansion, with Catherine’s expertise in public markets, corporate strategy and financial leadership set to support the company’s next phase of growth.

Dario Eklund, chief executive of Santhera Pharmaceuticals, added: “Andrew has been an exceptional financial leader, helping to secure our financial future and enabling the company’s strong commercial trajectory. 

“After five successful years with Santhera we greatly appreciate his commitment to ensuring a seamless transition.

“We are equally thrilled to welcome Catherine Isted as our new chief financial officer.

“Her strong finance and corporate development experience within the sector, supports our efforts in evaluating additional late-stage pipeline assets in rare & orphan diseases through distribution agreements or licensing partnerships.”

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