Calidi Biotherapeutics Announces Chief Executive Officer Transition and Appointment of Eric Poma, Ph.D. as CEO and Director

Core Viewpoint - Calidi Biotherapeutics has appointed Eric Poma, Ph.D., as the new CEO, succeeding Allan Camaisa, who will remain on the Board of Directors. This leadership change comes as the company advances its systemic enveloped virotherapy platform and prepares for clinical trials [1][2][3]. Company Overview - Calidi Biotherapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing targeted antitumor virotherapies, utilizing proprietary technology to enhance the immune system's ability to fight cancer [4]. - The company is headquartered in San Diego, California, and is publicly traded on the NYSE American under the ticker CLDI [4]. Leadership Transition - Eric Poma brings over 30 years of experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, with a strong background in capital fundraising and clinical program development. He previously served as CEO of Molecular Templates, where he raised over $250 million in equity financing [2][3]. - Allan Camaisa expressed pride in achieving the first FDA-approved IND for CLD-201 and looks forward to supporting the company as a board member [3]. Clinical Programs - Calidi is advancing its systemic enveloped virotherapy platform, RTNova, and is preparing for a company-sponsored dose escalation trial of CLD-201 in adult patients with solid tumors [2]. - The company’s technology includes stem cell-based platforms designed to deliver oncolytic viruses for various oncology indications, potentially treating or preventing metastatic disease [4].