Genedrive PLC on Monday said it appointed James Cheek as its new chief executive officer, effective immediately.
The Manchester-based molecular diagnostics company said Cheek replaces David Budd, who notified Genedrive of his intention to resign with immediate effect.
Genedrive said Cheek brings ‘extensive commercial and operational experience at a senior level through a successful career with established diagnostic companies’.
This will be valuable as the company expands its commercial footprint and opportunities within the UK and more widely, Genedrive said, particularly Cheek’s ‘extensive involvement’ in selling into the NHS.
Genedrive also announced the appointment of Research & Development Director Gione Miele as chief scientific offer and executive director, also effective immediately.
The company pointed to Miele’s ‘considerable experience in the development of molecular diagnostic technologies and systems’. Miele has been R&D director at the firm since 2015 and at its predecessor Epistem since 2011.
‘The focus of the board remains on the development and commercialisation of novel point-of-care molecular diagnostic opportunities available to the company. [Cheek]’s appointment underlines the board’s commitment to the ongoing successful commercial execution of the company’s innovative portfolio,’ said Chair Ian Gilham.
Incoming CEO Cheek commented: ‘I am very pleased to be joining Genedrive at such a pivotal time for the launch and commercialisation of new rapid point-of-care pharmacogenetic tests for antibiotic induced hearing loss in children and optimal treatment selection for stroke patients on the Genedrive platform.
‘I look forward to working with the outstanding individuals at Genedrive, to deliver solutions that our customers need.’
Shares in Genedrive were up 7.5% to 12.90 pence each in London on Monday afternoon.
On Wednesday morning last week, shares rose 17% to 13.20 pence each after Genedrive said that its CYP2C19 point of care test achieved marking registration in the UK, known as UKCA.
Genedrive said the test to help manage treatment in stroke patients is now readying for NHS introduction, targeting December.
It expects to submit its application for the EU’s CE marking in the first half of 2024.
Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
