Expression Therapeutics Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing next-generation cellular therapies, has appointed David F. Townson, Ph.D., as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Townson brings extensive executive leadership experience from premier pharmaceutical organizations and a proven track record of advancing transformative oncology and cell therapy programs from development through global commercialization.

“David’s appointment represents a pivotal moment for Expression Therapeutics,” said Mohan Rao, Executive Chairman of the Board. “His rare combination of scientific depth, operational excellence, and launch experience across Pfizer, Novartis, and Bayer positions him uniquely to lead Expression through its next phase of growth. David has lived through the inflection points that defined modern cell therapy, and he knows how to build organizations that deliver results for patients and investors.”

Experience

Townson most recently served as Franchise Lead for Immuno-Oncology and Precision Medicine at Bayer, where his portfolio included advanced innovative therapies. At Novartis, he led the CAR-T Program Management Office and played a pivotal role in the development and launch of KYMRIAH, the first FDA-approved CAR-T therapy as well as important contributions to organization’s hemophilia brands. At Pfizer, he served as Worldwide Portfolio Director, managing a broad global portfolio and guided cross-functional teams to deliver breakthrough therapies while driving meaningful value to investors. Across these three organizations, Townson’s leadership has contributed to several global product approvals, and successful Investigational New Drug (IND) applications spanning oncology, immuno-oncology, and cell therapy.

“Expression Therapeutics has exactly what the industry needs right now: differentiated science, proven manufacturing capability, and a team that understands how to move assets from hypothesis to human proof of concept with discipline,” said Townson. “My mandate is straightforward: execute with precision, advance programs that demonstrate compelling patient benefit, and build a company defined by operational excellence.”

Under Townson’s leadership, Expression Therapeutics will focus on clinical execution excellence, leveraging manufacturing as a competitive advantage, applying rigorous portfolio governance proven at the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies, and pursuing strategic partnerships that accelerate development and expand market access.