Aculys Pharma, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to pioneering treatments for neurological conditions, has appointed Hidemasa Tanigaki as its new Chief Executive Officer and Representative Director.

With over 30 years of extensive experience in the pharmaceutical sector, Tanigaki brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. He commenced his illustrious journey with Takeda Pharmaceutical Company in 1992, where he held various pivotal positions. 

His tenure with Takeda saw him play integral roles in the successful launch of multiple products and lead the oncology business strategy from a global standpoint while stationed in Boston starting in 2015. Upon returning to Japan, Tanigaki assumed the roles of Sales Director for Specialty Pharma and Head of Rare Hematology before being appointed as President and Representative Director of Nihon Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. in 2021. Subsequently, he spearheaded the Gastrointestinal Disease Business Unit at Takeda.

Expressing his enthusiasm for his new role, Tanigaki stated, "I am thrilled to join Aculys, which focuses on addressing today's drug lag/drug loss with an utmost sense of urgency. I believe the Aculys' pipeline carries great potential to transform the lives of patients. I look forward to working with the team to deliver such products to those in need as quickly as possible."

BT Slingsby, Executive Chairperson of Aculys, extended a warm welcome to Tanigaki, affirming the board's confidence in his ability to lead the company forward. Slingsby remarked, "The Aculys Board warmly welcomes Hidemasa as the new CEO of Aculys. We believe his impressive track record and experience in the pharmaceutical sector make him an ideal leader to take the team and assets toward commercialization. We are confident he will continue to position the Company as a leading biopharma in the field of neurological and psychiatric disorders, executing Aculys' clinical, commercial, and financial strategy."

In conjunction with Tanigaki's appointment, Takeshi Takahashi, who served as interim CEO, will step down from his role but will remain a member of the board.