VERAXA Biotech (NASDAQ: VRXA), a developer of next-generation antibody-based cancer therapies, has appointed Raju Willener as chief financial officer, effective immediately. The announcement, made on September 8, 2026, positions Willener to oversee the company's capital strategy, strategic opportunities, and the continued development of its proprietary BiTAC(R) technology platform and oncology pipeline.
Willener reports to CEO and Co-Founder Christoph Antz, Ph.D. With over three decades of international financial leadership experience spanning global capital markets, investment banking, corporate finance, asset management, and strategic leadership, Willener is expected to play a pivotal role in VERAXA's growth trajectory. His expertise will be instrumental as the company advances its pipeline of bispecific T cell engagers, bispecific ADCs, and other innovative antibody-based therapeutics.
Prior to joining VERAXA, Willener served as director of corporate development at Exentis Group AG before being appointed CFO in 2025. In that role, he led M&A initiatives, financial strategy, and key corporate functions. Earlier in his career, he held senior executive and investment positions, overseeing corporate finance, capital markets, investor relations, and investment portfolios exceeding CHF 30 billion in assets under management.
This appointment comes at a critical time for VERAXA as it seeks to accelerate its research and development efforts and potentially bring its therapies to market. The company's BiTAC platform, which stands for bispecific T cell engaging antibodies, is designed to harness the body's immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. The platform is based on scientific breakthroughs made at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), a world-renowned institution known for pioneering life science research.
Willener's deep experience in capital markets and corporate finance will be crucial for VERAXA as it navigates the complexities of funding clinical trials and scaling operations. His background in asset management, with portfolios exceeding CHF 30 billion, indicates a strong ability to manage financial resources effectively and engage with investors.
The company's forward-looking statements, as outlined in its SEC filings, highlight the risks and uncertainties inherent in biotech development. However, the strategic addition of Willener signals confidence in VERAXA's direction and its ability to execute on its ambitious goals.
Investors and industry observers will be watching closely to see how Willener's leadership influences VERAXA's financial strategy and its progress in advancing its oncology pipeline. The company's commitment to rigorous quality-by-design principles and transformative technologies positions it as a potential key player in the fight against cancer.
As VERAXA continues to develop its next-generation antibody-based therapeutics, the appointment of Raju Willener as CFO underscores the company's focus on strong financial stewardship and strategic growth. With his extensive experience, Willener is well-equipped to support VERAXA's mission to bring innovative cancer therapies to patients in need.
