Rigel Pharmaceuticals Appoints Alison Hannah as Chief Medical Officer

Rigel Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: RIGL), a commercial‑stage biotechnology company that focuses on novel small‑molecule therapies for hematologic disorders, cancer, and rare immune diseases, confirmed the appointment of Dr. Alison L. Hannah, M.D., as Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer (CMO) on July 1 2026. Dr. Hannah will succeed Dr. Lisa Rojkjaer, who retired from the position on the same day.

Leadership Transition and Strategic Implications

Dr. Hannah’s elevation follows her long‑standing involvement with Rigel as a board member since May 2021. She has resigned from the board to assume her new executive role, thereby aligning her strategic vision with the company’s clinical and commercial priorities. Her decades of experience in oncology drug development and her track record of advancing investigational therapies through the regulatory process are expected to accelerate the progress of Rigel’s flagship pipeline assets.

Pipeline Focus

  • R2891 (R289) – A potent, selective dual inhibitor of IRAK1/4, is advancing through a Phase 1b study in relapsed or refractory lower‑risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Enrollment in the dose‑expansion cohort is ongoing, with completion projected for the second half of 2026. Preliminary data from this phase are anticipated by year‑end. Dr. Hannah will guide the next steps, including dose‑selection and subsequent Phase 2 studies.

  • Vepdegestrant – An investigational agent for metastatic breast cancer, recently added to Rigel’s portfolio, represents an additional opportunity for expansion beyond MDS. Dr. Hannah’s oncology expertise will be instrumental in optimizing clinical development pathways for this asset.

Other potential indications for R289 are under evaluation, and updates are expected later this year.

Executive Commentary

Raul Rodriguez, President and CEO, expressed confidence in Dr. Hannah’s appointment: “Her deep experience leading oncology clinical development and advancing investigational therapies through the regulatory process will be extremely valuable as we continue to advance our development pipeline.” He further noted the importance of this transition at an “exciting time” for Rigel, highlighting the company’s commitment to bringing meaningful new therapies to patients.

Dr. Hannah echoed this sentiment, stating: “I am excited to join Rigel at this important stage in the company’s evolution. Having served on the board, I have seen firsthand the strength of the team, the scientific rationale behind its programs, and the opportunity to advance meaningful new therapies for patients with hematologic disorders and cancer.” She added that her role will focus on guiding the continued development of R289 and the broader clinical strategy, including vepdegestrant.

Market Context

With a market capitalization of approximately $708 million and a recent closing price of $38.72 (as of 2026‑07‑01), Rigel’s share performance remains sensitive to pipeline milestones. The appointment of a seasoned oncology leader is expected to bolster investor confidence, particularly as the company progresses key studies through 2026 and beyond.

In summary, Dr. Hannah’s appointment is a strategic move that aligns Rigel’s leadership with its clinical objectives, positioning the company to navigate the complex oncology development landscape more effectively and to accelerate the delivery of innovative therapies to patients in need.