Zymeworks Executive Changes: Mark Hollywood Promoted to COO
Mark Hollywood has been promoted to Executive Vice President and COO with expanded responsibilities beyond his current leadership of Technology and Manufacturing Operations, Quality, and Alliance/Program Management. Dr. Sabeen Mekan has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer effective February 1, with overall responsibility for clinical development, regulatory affairs, pharmacovigilance/patient safety, and clinical operations. Dr. Jeff Smith, current CMO, will be retiring effective January 31, while continuing to provide services as an adviser for a transitional time period. Leone Patterson, Chief Financial and Business Officer and Daniel Dex, General Counsel, will both be departing from their roles at Zymeworks during the first quarter of 2026. The company has commenced a comprehensive search for a permanent CFO with the experience required to support the company's next phase of development. Galbraith has assumed the role of Acting CFO until a replacement is secured.
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Zymeworks (ZYME) 2026 Milestones Expected to Drive Long-Term Value with Promising ZW191 Data
- ZW191 Clinical Progress: Zymeworks' ZW191 shows a 64% overall response rate in phase 1 trials for advanced solid tumors, particularly among gynecological cancer patients receiving doses of 6.4 mg/kg or higher, indicating significant therapeutic potential that could drive long-term value for the company.
- Dose Optimization Initiated: The company has commenced dose optimization of ZW191 in ovarian cancer in the previous quarter, aiming to enhance efficacy and meet patient needs, thereby strengthening its competitive position in the market.
- Zanidatamab Milestones: Zymeworks is poised to receive substantial milestone payments related to its licensed program Zanidatamab, which is approved in the U.S. for HER2-positive biliary tract cancer, showcasing the company's robust potential in the biopharmaceutical sector.
- Strong Cash Reserves: As of December 31, 2025, Zymeworks held approximately $270.6 million in cash, providing ample funding for future R&D and market expansion, thereby enhancing its capacity for sustained growth in the industry.

Zymeworks Appoints New Board Member and Executive Leadership Changes
- Board Enhancement: Brian Cherry appointed to the Board on January 12, 2026, brings over $25 billion in investment experience, aiming to enhance long-term shareholder value through optimized capital allocation and strategic acquisitions.
- Executive Promotions: Mark Hollywood promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, expanding responsibilities to drive growth and operational efficiency in the company's next phase.
- Leadership Transitions: Dr. Sabeen Mekan will transition to Chief Medical Officer effective February 1, 2026, overseeing clinical development and regulatory affairs to ensure compliance and safety in drug development.
- New Vice Presidents: Zymeworks appointed five new Vice Presidents, underscoring the company's commitment to leadership development and enhancing the capabilities and experience of its management team through internal talent cultivation.









