SYDNEY: Rhythm Biosciences Ltd (ASX: RHY) announced the appointment of Dr. David Atkins as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective from Monday, 13 May 2024.

Dr. Atkins was selected following a comprehensive and competitive search, which considered both experienced and highly credentialed local and international candidates.

The process was led by the Board with assistance from executive search firm Proclinical Executive and executive diagnostic consultants, Aspect Group.

Dr. David Atkins is an accomplished global healthcare leader with experience across a broad range of life sciences and healthcare disciplines, having gained deep experience in R&D, product development, and commercialization across biotech, medical device, IVD, and data-driven solutions across all major international markets.

Mr. Otto Buttula, Executive Chairman of Rhythm, said: “Given the large number and extremely high caliber of experienced candidates attracted to Rhythm’s CEO position, we are delighted to have concluded our search having chosen what the Board believes is an outstanding candidate, who is truly driven to deliver upon Rhythm’s significant potential.

David’s experience, impressive credentials, and deep understanding of the opportunities for Rhythm’s IVD products and other strategic expansion opportunities made him a standout choice to lead Rhythm as its new CEO.

“We look forward to adopting new processes, ideas, and the enthusiasm that David will undoubtedly bring as an experienced outsider to the organization and believe he possesses the necessary attributes to be an exemplary leader of our capable and driven senior management team.

The Board strongly endorses David’s leadership and believes a full-time, practiced, and focused CEO will ensure that Rhythm’s exciting future is in robust and accomplished hands.”

Dr. David Atkins, Incoming CEO, commented: “I am delighted about the opportunity to become CEO of Rhythm, given the potentially important role its product set could play in detecting a suite of cancers early, not only in Australia but globally.

I believe there is strong growth potential in its ability to deliver on a robust platform of research, initially developed by CSIRO, but taken much further by the Company.

In addition to advancing the current product pipeline, I look forward to working with the RHY team and the broader stakeholder group in Australia and globally to explore ways to accelerate RHY’s positive impact on cancer patients.”

Mr. Otto Buttula intends to step back to a non-executive position following a brief period of transition support for Dr. Atkins.