Prilenia Therapeutics Adds Lis Leiderman as CFO

Prilenia Therapeutics is appointing Elisabeth (Lis) Leiderman, MD, MBA, as Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Background and Experience

Leiderman has been CFO at several biotechnology companies, including Atsena, Decibel, and Dewpoint. Prilenia, a biopharmaceutical company, focuses on accelerating progress for people affected by Huntington’s disease (HD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Leiderman’s two decades-plus of experience also includes a current stint on the board of Autolus Therapeutics. She also was previously on the board of Bluebird Bio. Her investment banking experience extends to past senior positions with UBS, Credit Suisse, and Nomura.

Prilenia CEO Welcomes New CFO

Prilenia CEO Michael Hayden, PhD, cited Leiderman’s work in finance, corporate development, and investment banking in life sciences as strengths.

“Lis is a physician and neuroscientist by training, bringing a rare and exciting combination of scientific training, financial expertise, deal-making and strategic vision,” Hayden said. “She will play a key role as we execute on our mission to deliver pridopidine to people with HD, ALS and potentially other neurodegenerative diseases. I am thrilled to welcome Lis to Prilenia and to seeing the significant value she will contribute to our leadership.”

CFO’s First Tasks

Leiderman said her initial focus with Prilenia will be driving its financial and strategic priorities. She will manage the company’s runway to anticipated Phase III completion, while preparing to expedite potential commercialization.

“I am excited to join the company at this important stage, embarking on two significant Phase III studies,” Leiderman said. “We are all fully committed to completing our pivotal Phase III ALS and HD studies.”

Looking toward the future, Leiderman said she also will assist in generating data supporting submissions for potential approvals.