Zymeworks Inc. (NASDAQ: ZYME) announced the appointment of Adam Schayowitz as head of research and development and Scott Platshon as chief business officer, effective April 9.

Schayowitz will serve as executive vice president and head of research and development, working with the company's R&D and business development teams to advance its portfolio of product candidates. He brings nearly two decades of experience in oncology drug development and will focus on advancing programs in areas of unmet medical need while preparing additional product candidates for clinical studies.

Platshon will serve as executive vice president and chief business officer, leading the company's asset aggregation strategy and managing expected future cash flows from Ziihera and other licensed healthcare assets, including pasritamig, which Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine is advancing into Phase 3 registration studies.

Both executives previously held interim roles at Zymeworks and join from EcoR1 Capital, a significant shareholder in the company. They will report directly to Kenneth Galbraith, chair and chief executive officer.

The appointments follow the recent naming of Kristin Stafford as chief financial officer. Zymeworks stated the leadership changes position the company to execute its strategy as it focuses on pipeline execution, partnerships and corporate strategy.

Vancouver-based Zymeworks develops biotherapeutics and manages a portfolio of licensed healthcare assets. The company recently initiated a Phase 1 study for ZW251 and has seen expanding global approvals for zanidatamab. Positive Phase 3 data for zanidatamab in the HERIZON-GEA-01 trial was also reported.

The information is based on a company press release.