Syndax Pharmaceuticals, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing an innovative pipeline of cancer therapies, appointed Neil Gallagher president, head of research and development (R&D), effective April 10, 2023.

Gallagher brings more than 20 years of industry experience, most recently serving as chief medical officer, vice president, head of development at AbbVie, where he led multiple development programs through approval and oversaw asset strategy and portfolio management across several therapeutic areas, including oncology.

“Neil is a preeminent, global oncology drug developer with deep expertise and a strong track record of successful drug approvals, notably in hematologic malignancies with Venclexta, an important new agent for patients with acute leukemia,” said Michael Metzger, CEO. “Neil’s passion for bringing innovative drugs to patients and his experience across all stages of drug development will be instrumental as we advance revumenib and axatilimab through anticipated pivotal data readouts and two planned regulatory filings expected in 2023. I look forward to Neil’s many contributions as we work to bring novel products to patients and pursue opportunities to expand our pipeline of best-in-class medicines.”

Prior to assuming his roles at AbbVie, Gallagher served as the company’s head of global oncology development, a role in which he expanded the hematology and solid tumor portfolio while strengthening precision medicine and companion diagnostic capabilities. Prior to joining AbbVie, he served as head of development for oncology and inflammation at Amgen. Gallagher previously spent a decade at Novartis, where he led several development and clinical programs across the portfolio.

“Syndax has set itself apart as a leader in targeted oncology with late-stage, first- and best-in-class molecules based on their compelling clinical profiles. Revumenib and axatilimab have the potential to become the standard of care in their respective disease areas,” said Gallagher. “It is an exciting time to lead R&D at Syndax as the Company looks to expand the potential indications for revumenib and axatilimab. I am delighted to join this impressive Syndax team and leverage our collective expertise to develop differentiated therapies that could transform the lives of cancer patients and create significant long-term value.”