Imugene (ASX:IMU) has moved to bolster its board by appointing two experienced non-executive directors and launching a package of governance and remuneration reviews.
The appointments of Dr Charmaine Gittleson and Mr Michael Kotsanis take effect on 30 June. The company said the appointments are intended to provide broader biotech, clinical and commercial expertise as it advances its allogeneic CAR T therapy, azer-cel, through clinical development.
Executive Chairman Paul Hopper said, “I am delighted that Charmaine and Michael are joining the Board. Both have extensive biotech experience across multiple international and ASX companies and bring a myriad of skills to bear. Their appointments result in a stronger and more balanced Board, who will support management as we progress our exciting azer-cel technology through the clinic.”
Dr Gittleson brings more than 20 years of global drug development and regulatory experience and has served as Chief Medical Officer at CSL. She holds current non-executive roles, including Chair of Percheron Therapeutics and director positions at PolyNovo and George Medicines, and has previously served on the board of Patrys.
Mr Kotsanis brings 35 years of operational leadership experience in global pharmaceutical markets, including senior roles at Hospira, Mayne Pharma, and Synthon, as well as CEO experience at Acrux. He currently serves as a non-executive director at ICE Pharma and has held public company board roles in Australia.
In response to a remuneration strike at the November 2025 annual meeting, the Remuneration Committee has initiated reviews and actions. The committee has determined there will be no salary increases for the Chair and the CEO and Managing Director, the board and CEO will forego 50 per cent of their entitlement to long-term equity incentives, and the Chair and CEO and Managing Director have re-invested up to 50 per cent of their 2025 bonus through on-market share purchases.
The company said a comprehensive review of its remuneration policies and framework will be completed ahead of the 2026 annual general meeting.