Celonic announces CEO transition: The succession has already been settled
Dr. Samanta Cimitan to depart at end of 2026 to assume a senior leadership role at a global life sciences organization
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Celonic Group announced that Dr. Samanta Cimitan, Chief Executive Officer, will be leaving the Company toward the end of 2026 to pursue a senior leadership opportunity with one of the world’s leading life sciences global organization.
Over more than four years with Celonic, including more than three years as Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Samanta Cimitan has successfully led the Company through a period of strategic transformation, strengthening Celonic’s position as a pure-play biologics CDMO, enhancing its operational and commercial capabilities, and establishing a strong platform for sustainable long-term growth.
Under Dr. Samanta Cimitan’s leadership, Celonic achieved important operational, regulatory, innovation and commercial milestones. The Company strengthened GMP performance at its Heidelberg site in Germany and secured the extension of its Manufacturing and Import Authorization (MIA) for its mid-scale commercial manufacturing asset. Celonic also established its state-of-the-art Biologics Development Center (BDC) in Basel, Switzerland, advancing next-generation bioprocessing technologies, including process intensification and advanced perfusion. At the same time, Celonic expanded its customer base, secured new development and manufacturing programs, and strengthened long-term partnerships across the biotechnology sector.
The Board of Directors and shareholders express their sincere appreciation for Dr. Samanta Cimitan’s leadership, vision, impact and commitment. The Board deeply regrets her decision to leave and wishes her every success in the next stage of her career.
The Board has prepared for this transition and the CEO succession process is well advanced. A successor has been identified and will be announced shortly, ensuring a smooth handover. Dr. Samanta Cimitan will work closely with the Chairman and incoming CEO to maintain leadership continuity and operational focus.
Statement from Josef Otto Rettenmaier, Chairman of the Board: “Dr. Samanta Cimitan has been instrumental in transforming Celonic into a focused, next-generation biologics CDMO, strengthening its commercial position and advancing key regulatory, technical and manufacturing capabilities. Celonic enters this transition with strong momentum, supported by deep industry partnerships and a committed organization focused on executing the Company’s growth strategy and the long-term strategic priorities of the JRS Group Family Shareholders” .
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