Sydnexis, Inc., a pioneering biopharmaceutical company dedicated to addressing pediatric myopia progression, has appointed Perry J. Sternberg as its Chief Executive Officer and as a member of its Board of Directors. Sternberg, a seasoned pharmaceutical and biotech executive with over three decades of industry experience, including 15 years in eye care, is poised to steer Sydnexis through its next phase of growth.
The appointment of Sternberg, effective August 5, 2024, marks a significant milestone for Sydnexis as it advances its lead asset, SYD-101, aimed at slowing the progression of pediatric myopia and mitigating associated health risks. Jeffry Weinhuff, Managing Partner at Visionary Venture Fund and Lead Board Director at Sydnexis, expressed optimism about Sternberg's appointment, emphasizing his extensive track record in commercializing therapies and driving organizational growth.
"Perry’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Sydnexis as we continue to advance our lead asset, SYD-101, to slow the progression of pediatric myopia and the risk of associated co-morbidities," said Weinhuff. "Perry has deep expertise in commercialization of new therapies across diverse markets and extensive experience leading organizational growth and transformation. He will be a tremendous asset to Sydnexis."
Sternberg's career highlights include overseeing more than 20 product launches across various therapeutic areas and markets. His significant contributions to the field of eye care include leading the U.S. commercial organization and managing the product portfolio at Novartis, Bausch & Lomb, and Shire. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the successful launch of Xiidra®, the first FDA-approved treatment for dry eye disease symptoms.
"The Sydnexis team has an industry-leading track record in eye care. I am excited to join and work with Patrick Johnson, President, and the rest of the management team," said Perry Sternberg. "Progression of pediatric myopia is a serious condition with significant, growing unmet need and no FDA-approved pharmacological treatment options. I look forward to collaborating with this talented team to bring such an innovative treatment option like SYD-101 to pediatric patients, their families, and clinicians."
Richard Lindstrom, M.D., founder, director, and attending surgeon at Minnesota Eye Consultants P.A., and member of the Sydnexis Board of Directors, expressed enthusiasm about Sternberg's appointment, particularly in light of recent developments in the Phase 3 STAR trial.
"With the recent three-year readout of the primary and secondary endpoints of the Phase 3 STAR trial, I’m thrilled about Perry’s appointment as CEO and the bright future ahead for Sydnexis," said Dr. Lindstrom.
Prior to joining Sydnexis, Sternberg served as President and CEO of Corium, LLC, where he successfully transformed the company into a leading commercial CNS therapeutics entity, securing FDA approvals and commercial launches for AZSTARYS® and ADLARITY®.
Sternberg's leadership style, characterized by a focus on customer and patient needs, has consistently driven team excellence and facilitated successful transitions amidst industry changes. His appointment signals Sydnexis' strategic commitment to advancing innovative therapies in pediatric myopia treatment.