Newcells Biotech bolsters commercial team with key appointment
Newcastle-based drug discovery partner Newcells Biotech has appointed Emile Shaffu as Director of Sales. This strategic move aims to strengthen the company’s global market presence and enhance customer support in the field of in vitro models and bespoke assay services.
Expertise in molecular biology and genomics
Shaffu brings over two decades of international sales and management experience to Newcells, with a particular focus on molecular biology and genomic technologies. His appointment is part of a broader initiative
to strengthen the company’s executive and commercial teams, reflecting Newcells’ commitment to expansion and technological innovation in new approach methods (NAMs) for drug discovery.
Prior to joining Newcells, Shaffu held notable positions in the life sciences sector. As UK Regional Business Manager at Bionano Genomics, he successfully introduced novel optical genome mapping techniques to the
UK market, working across industry, the NHS, and academia. His tenure at Horizon Discovery (now Revvity) saw him expand customer networks for CRISPR/RNAi products and screening services across multiple regions.
Focus on accelerating clinical translation
Shaffu’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Newcells Biotech, as the company seeks to capitalise on the growing demand for in vitro models that can more accurately predict in vivo human outcomes. These advanced models are increasingly recognised as valuable tools in reducing the ‘guesswork’ often associated with drug development and potentially accelerating the path to clinical trials.
Commenting on his new role, Shaffu said: “Throughout my career, I have focused on opportunities in areas of high innovation. Newcells puts this at the forefront of its capabilities; combining unique expertise with cutting-edge technology to offer targeted solution to researchers’ complex problems. I am eager to join the Company, collaborate with the team, and apply my expertise to enhance access to these industry-leading in vitro models – in this way, we can take the guesswork out of drug development and accelerate clinical translation across more programmes globally.”
Strengthening global presence
Newcells Biotech’s CEO and Co-Founder, Dr Mike Nicholds, emphasised the strategic importance of Shaffu’s appointment, stating: “Emile’s successful track record and proven leadership in the life sciences sector will play a pivotal role as we expand our global footprint and deliver on our mission to improve the translation from preclinical studies to first-in-human trials.”
The addition of Shaffu to the team follows recent appointments to Newcells’ US commercial team, including Anthony Kayas and Catherine Ulich. These strategic hires underscore the company’s commitment to growth and improved customer service on a global scale.
Emile Shaffu
