Calidi Biotherapeutics Taps Biotech Veteran Eric Poma as New CEO to Drive Clinical Development

Calidi Biotherapeutics has appointed Eric Poma, Ph.D., as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership transition for the biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cancer treatments. Poma, who assumes the role effective April 22, brings over three decades of biotech leadership experience that could prove pivotal in advancing the company's systemic virotherapy platform.

With an extensive background that includes leadership roles at Molecular Templates, Poma has demonstrated a track record of securing substantial funding and strategic partnerships. During his previous tenure, he raised over $250 million and established critical collaborations with major pharmaceutical companies including Takeda, Vertex, and Bristol Myers Squirdd, skills that could be crucial for Calidi's future growth and development.

The leadership change comes at a critical juncture for Calidi Biotherapeutics, as the company prepares to initiate a dose-escalation trial for CLD-201, its investigational therapy targeting solid tumors. Poma's expertise in navigating clinical-stage biotechnology companies positions the organization to potentially accelerate its therapeutic development pipeline.

Calidi's unique approach centers on a proprietary stem cell-based platform designed to enhance cancer treatment. The company's technology focuses on utilizing allogeneic stem cells capable of carrying oncolytic viruses, with the potential to improve treatment efficacy and patient safety across multiple oncological indications, including high-grade gliomas and solid tumors.

The company's preclinical research suggests a promising dual approach that could potentially treat or prevent metastatic disease, representing a significant advancement in cancer immunotherapy. Poma's leadership is expected to help Calidi translate its innovative research into clinical applications that could meaningfully impact patient outcomes.

As Calidi Biotherapeutics transitions to this new phase of clinical development, Poma's appointment signals the company's commitment to advancing its cutting-edge cancer treatment platform. His proven ability to guide biotechnology companies through complex clinical stages makes him a strategic choice to lead the organization's next chapter of scientific innovation and potential therapeutic breakthroughs.