(NASDAQ: TCRR)
TCR2 Therapeutics Inc. developed a robust clinical pipeline of novel next generation T cell therapies targeting mesothelin expressing solid tumors. TCR2’s product candidates were developed against novel and complex targets utilizing its proprietary T cell receptor (TCR) Fusion Construct T cells (TRuC®-T cells). The TRuC platform is designed to specifically recognize and kill cancer cells by harnessing signaling from the entire TCR, independent of human leukocyte antigens (HLA). TCR2’s merger with Adaptimmune integrated an array of next-generation innovations that address the tumor micro-environment using both autologous and allogeneic approaches.
EXECUTIVE BUILD
LEAD led the build of (3) executive + leadership roles, including TCR2’s Chief Technical Officer and Chief Business & Strategy Officer and Head of Translational Sciences. Both CTO and CSBO placements were completed within (3) months. Additional engagements for SVPs of Translational Medicine and UK Manufacturing were paused due to strategic + merger considerations.
THE CHALLENGE
LEAD was tasked with identifying a Chief Technical Officer with successor potential after CEO Garry Menzel focused his sights on a stellar operator who would optimize and scale TCR2’s global manufacturing capabilities. LEAD was next charged with identifying a Chief Business & Strategy Officer with threshold level oncology exit experience who would lead and partner on M&A and business development activity.
THE SOLUTION
LEAD’s past technical operations and manufacturing builds in novel biological modalities ensured an existing network and relationships with key players leading CGT manufacturing processes, in addition to facilitating the technical and strategic aspects of the remit. Peter Olagunju was placed as CTO within (3) months and was subsequently promoted to Chief Operating Officer. Prior to TCR2, Peter supported the advancement of (5) approved cell and gene therapies at FerGene, Dendreon, and bluebirdbio, where he spearheaded patient supply strategy. Rosemary Harrison was placed as Chief Business & Strategy Officer within 3 months meeting TCR2’s threshold charge following her key involvement in Pfizer’s $2.2B acquisition of Trillium Therapeutics during her tenure as Chief Business Officer.
IMPACT
In June 2023, Adaptimmune and TCR2 Therapeutics merged complementary platforms combining multiple late stage and BLA imminent programs against multiple solid tumor types, creating a strategically positioned immunotherapy powerhouse.