Akebia Therapeutics Inc (Nasdaq: AKBA), a United States-based biopharmaceutical company, has named David A Spellman as its new senior vice president, chief financial oficer and treasurer, effective 29 June 2020, it was reported on Thursday.

Prior to joining Akebia, Spellman has served as CFO and chief business officer at Intarcia Therapeutics Inc. He has also served as the CFO of Mersana Therapeutics Inc and held various roles at Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc, with the most recent one being VP, Corporate, Commercial and International Finance. He has held various positions on the Finance team at Millennium Pharmaceuticals, including operating as a member of the VELCADE launch team.

Spellman is to succeed Jason A Amello, who is stepping down from the position to pursue other professional interests.