Galleon Names Joseph Oliveto CEO

Galleon Pharmaceuticals, the first company to build a drug discovery and development platform focusing on pharmaceuticals for sleep apnea and related breathing-control disorders, has named Joseph Oliveto as chief executive officer, effective immediately. Mr. Oliveto replaces James Mannion, who will retire as chief executive officer and continue to serve as a strategic advisor to the company.

Mr. Oliveto brings more than 25 years of pharmaceutical and biotech experience across the areas of drug development, commercialization, manufacturing and business development. Most recently, Mr. Oliveto served as president and chief executive of Chelsea Therapeutics, a publicly held biopharmaceutical company. During his tenure as chief executive officer, he led the company through the FDA’s approval of Northera for the treatment of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, and the subsequent sale of Chelsea to Lundbeck Inc.

“Joe’s broad experience and proven track record in leading successful R&D and commercial teams will be of great value as we continue to build upon Galleon’s success to date,” said Thomas Dietz, chairman, Galleon Pharmaceuticals. “At the same time, we want to recognize the outstanding work that Jim Mannion did since founding the company as chief executive officer. Thanks to his leadership and vision, Galleon is well-positioned to continue clinical studies and eventually bring these investigational therapies to market.”