Bicara Therapeutics prepares to accelerate cancer drug approvals next year, with the biotechnology company appointing Chris Sarchi as chief commercial officer.
Mr. Sarchi joins Bicara after three and a half years at cancer drug maker Replimune. Just last month, the company laid off hundreds of employees after the FDA rejected its melanoma drug.
Prior to that, he spent five years at French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi in oncology and transplant roles in the United States, and five years at German pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim.
Mr. Sarchi joins Vicara at a pivotal time in Vicara’s history. In 2024, the company raised $362 million in an IPO to fund clinical trials of its main asset, a bifunctional antibody called Fiseraphsp alfa.
The drug is currently being evaluated in a pivotal Phase 2/3 trial in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), which Vicara plans to use to support an application for accelerated approval to the FDA next year.
If the drug is approved, Vicara will move beyond its current research and development focus into full-fledged commercial biotechnology. Sarchi has joined to lead that transition.
Sarsi, writing on LinkedIn, said he joins Vicara as the company’s first chief commercial officer after a career spent building and leading commercial organizations focused on delivering meaningful care to patients, healthcare providers and caregivers.
“Joining Bicara represents the next exciting chapter. This chapter begins with a highly talented team, a strong scientific foundation, and an opportunity to advance innovative treatments for patients with significant (unmet) needs.”
