Kivu Bioscience is naming Brunilda Shtylla Chief Business Officer, with Shtylla assuming the same role she held at Sutro Biopharma.

Shtylla is tasked with leading corporate strategy, business development, and partnership initiatives as Kivu advances its antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) pipeline. As a clinical-stage biotechnology company, Kivu develops next-generation ADCs for difficult-to-treat cancers.

How Shtylla Will Impact Kivu

Shtylla’s appointment signals the company’s desire to advance its pipeline in clinical development and expand strategic collaborations.

“Kivu’s differentiated ADC platform and advancing pipeline position the company to deliver meaningful innovation in targeted cancer therapies,” Shtylla said. “I’ve been highly impressed by the team’s speed, thoughtful and disciplined approach, and proven ability to rapidly execute.

Shtylla added an enthusiasm to “lead strategic partnerships, accelerate pipeline advancement, and help bring new treatment options to patients.”

Kivu Bioscience COO Reacts

Kivu President and Chief Operating Officer Mohit Trikka, PhD, also contributed thoughts on Shtylla’s appointment.

“Brunilda [has] … a proven track record of structuring innovative partnerships and creating long-term strategic value,” Trikka said.

Trikka also mentioned that Kivu is preparing to advance its second ADC candidate into the clinic. In June 2025, the company entered a manufacturing agreement with Sterling Pharma Solutions regarding Kivu’s lead oncology ADC candidate, KIVU-107.

“[Shtylla’s] expertise will be invaluable in accelerating Kivu’s growth and advancing new therapies for patients,” Trikka said.

Prior to the Kivu appointment and her work at Sutro, Shtylla advised numerous organizations including Genentech, Grail, and Edwards Lifesciences. She also held leadership roles at LifeScan, which is a Johnson & Johnson company.