Melinta Therapeutics Inc., a Morristown-based developer of novel antibodies, announced on Monday that it has appointed Christine Ann Miller to CEO, president and member of the board, effective immediately. Miller has replaced Jennifer Sanfilippo, who has stepped down as interim CEO and director, and resumed her role as senior vice president and general counsel.
In April, Melinta became privately-owned by affiliates of health care investment firm Deerfield Management Company L.P.
“We are pleased that Christine will be joining Melinta at this pivotal moment,” Jonathan Leff, partner at Deerfield and board member at Melinta, said. “Christine’s deep industry knowledge, successful track record, and outstanding leadership, will help Melinta to fulfill its mission in the fight against drug-resistant infections and to grow its business in other areas of high unmet need.”
Miller, who has more than 20 years of experience in life sciences, most recently led the global and U.S. product portfolio for Sandoz, a division of Novartis. Prior to that, she spent over a decade at Actavis (rebranded to Allergan) and Watson Pharmaceuticals. She began her career at Merck as a chemical engineer and procurement analyst.
“I am honored and excited to join Melinta. It is extremely motivating to see the commitment that this team has to providing life-saving therapeutic solutions to patients and customers,” Miller said. “Our immediate focus will be to accelerate the customer reach of our marketed products … while expanding our portfolio to serve the critical needs of patients in the hospital and hospital ecosystem. Together, we will build a high performing team culture that will enable Melinta to achieve sustainable growth and fulfill the potential of this tremendous company.”
