Spur Therapeutics Announces Leadership Transition As CEO Michael Parini Becomes Board Chair

Spur Therapeutics has announced a leadership transition as the company prepares for its next stage of growth and development. Michael Parini, who has served as Chief Executive Officer, will step down from the role and become Chair of the Board of Directors, effective July 31, 2026. Beginning August 1, 2026, the company's current Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Henning Stennicke, will take on the newly appointed role of Chief Operating Officer (COO), where he will oversee the company's day-to-day operations, strategic execution, and key business decisions.

The company said the leadership change comes at a time when Spur has built strong momentum across its pipeline. Under Michael Parini's leadership over the past five years, Spur refined its corporate strategy, prioritized its research and development programs, and successfully advanced its lead gene therapy candidate, FLT201, into Phase 3 clinical development. With these achievements in place, the company believes it is well positioned to continue executing its long-term objectives.

Chris Hollowood, Ph.D., the current Chair of the Board, said Michael Parini has played a major role in transforming the company and preparing it for its next phase of growth. He added that the timing is right for the leadership transition, noting that Dr. Henning Stennicke's extensive scientific expertise, leadership experience, and deep understanding of drug development make him well qualified to lead the company's operational activities moving forward.

As Chair of the Board, Michael Parini will continue to play an important role in shaping Spur's long-term strategy and supporting business development initiatives. While stepping away from the CEO position, he will remain actively involved in guiding the company's strategic direction. Following the transition, Chris Hollowood will continue serving on the Board as a Director, ensuring continuity and contributing his extensive experience in gene therapy.

The company also announced the appointment of Dr. Samantha Roberts as a new member of its Board of Directors. Dr. Roberts currently serves as an Executive Partner at Syncona and brings more than 20 years of experience across clinical practice, healthcare operations, academia, and the private sector. She previously served as Chief Executive of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Spur believes her expertise in healthcare market access, reimbursement strategies, and commercialization will provide valuable support as the company prepares for the future launch of FLT201.

Dr. Henning Stennicke has served as Spur's Chief Scientific Officer since 2022. He brings more than 25 years of experience in drug discovery and development, particularly in rare diseases, covering every stage from early research through clinical development, regulatory approval, and commercialization. Before joining Spur, he held leadership positions at Novo Nordisk, where he gained extensive experience advancing innovative therapies.

Commenting on his new role, Dr. Stennicke said he is excited to lead Spur Therapeutics during an important period for the company. He credited Michael Parini with building strong momentum and positioning Spur for continued success. He also highlighted the company's differentiated approach to gene therapy and said he looks forward to advancing FLT201 through its pivotal Phase 3 trial, regulatory approval process, and eventual commercialization. 

According to Dr. Stennicke, the goal is to provide a much-needed treatment option for patients living with Gaucher disease, where significant unmet medical needs remain. He added that he is eager to work closely with the company's leadership team and Board of Directors to execute Spur's strategic priorities and continue advancing its mission.