Posted at 10:27 a.m., Thursday, April 5, 2007
Hawaii Biotech's chief executive officer steps down
Advertiser Staff
Hawaii Biotech Inc. today announced that Leonard Firestone has stepped down as chief executive officer and director effective immediately. Carolyn Weeks-Levy, the company's vice president and chief scientific officer, will act as interim senior executive of the company.Steven Mento, a current member of the board, has been appointed chairman.
"Len Firestone came to Hawaii Biotech to revitalize the company's vaccine efforts," said Weeks-Levy. "During his tenure, the company has made significant progress in the development of novel vaccines to treat important infectious diseases. We thank Len for his efforts."
"The strategic vision of the CEO and board diverged and there was mutual agreement that there was a need for change," said Mento.
Weeks-Levy who has more than 20 years experience in research management, biotechnology and vaccine research, will retain her responsibilities as chief scientist of the company.
Hawaii Biotech is a privately held biotechnology company focused on research and development of vaccines for infectious diseases including West Nile virus and influenza.
