Biotech company Alligator Bioscience has appointed current CFO Johan Giléus as its new CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2027. This was disclosed in a press release.

Giléus will succeed Sören Bregenholt and will also remain CFO. The appointment follows the company's strategic refocusing on its financial interest in the HER2-targeted antibody HLX22. Following the CEO change, Alligator will operate with a minimal organization, supported by the board and external consultants.

Alligator's stock plunged more than 70% on July 23 after the company announced that it was discontinuing development of the drug candidate mitazalimab.

"Sören has led Alligator with energy, integrity and perseverance, as he and his team have worked tirelessly during a challenging period for the biotech industry. Although the outcome for mitazalimab did not meet our expectations, Sören guided Alligator through its strategic refocusing with professionalism and care, and we are very grateful for all that he has contributed," says Hans-Peter Ostler, chairman of Alligator's board.

Alligator's stock has lost nearly 98% of its value over the past year.