Arcutis Biotherapeutics, riding high on a dermatology approval and another on the horizon, has enlisted L. Todd Edwards as its new Chief Commercial Officer to bolster its commercial endeavors. Edwards will spearhead the company’s strategic commercial launch plans for two key products: Zoryve, an FDA-approved plaque psoriasis cream, and a modified foam variant of the same drug. Arcutis is currently seeking US regulatory clearance for the foam version, intended for treating the inflammatory skin condition seborrheic dermatitis.
Both therapies are formulated with roflumilast, the PDE4 inhibitor featured in AstraZeneca’s oral treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Daliresp. Edwards brings extensive experience in dermatology, having previously served as the Group Vice President and Business Unit Head for Incyte’s immunology business. In this role, he led the successful launch and commercialization of the company’s topical JAK inhibitor for atopic dermatitis. His career also includes tenures at UCB, AbbVie, and TAP Pharmaceuticals, where he contributed to the commercialization of dermatology, rheumatology, and gastroenterology portfolios.
“Over many years, Edwards has developed a deep understanding of what is needed to be commercially successful in dermatology, and his proven track record of successfully commercializing both topical and systemic therapies will be critical in light of our ongoing launch of Zoryve cream in plaque psoriasis.”
– Frank Watanabe, president and CEO of Arcutis
Also Read: UCB’s Psoriasis Drug Application Overcomes Manufacturing Hurdle But Hits Another FDA Delay
In response to these leadership changes, Ayisha Jeter, who previously held the interim CCO position, will transition to the role of Senior Vice President of Marketing and Market Access. In her new capacity, Jeter will assume responsibility for all marketing and market access initiatives within the company, reporting directly to Edwards.
These organizational adjustments precede a significant milestone: the FDA’s official PDUFA date for roflumilast foam in seborrheic dermatitis, slated for December 16. Arcutis has proactively initiated marketing efforts in anticipation of the drug’s approval. This month, the company launched an awareness and education campaign called “Clearing Up Seb Derm” aimed at increasing the diagnosis rate of the condition. In August, Arcutis rolled out its first direct-to-consumer ad campaign for Zoryve, known as “Cream That Can,” primarily targeting streaming platforms.
