Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: AQST) has announced a change in its leadership, with the appointment of Thomas A. Zalewski as the new Chief Legal Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, effective April 2, 2026. Zalewski, previously a partner at Day Pitney LLP, brings extensive experience in advising life sciences and healthcare companies on strategic, commercial, and regulatory matters. He will be succeeding Lori J. Braender, who has been in the role for nearly eight years and will transition to a non-executive role as Corporate Secretary of the company.
Zalewski's appointment comes at a crucial stage for Aquestive as it advances Anaphylm, the first and only oral epinephrine rescue medication, toward approval for patients globally. Daniel Barber, President and CEO of Aquestive, expressed his confidence in Zalewski's suitability for the role, citing his expertise and familiarity with the company's mission.
In recognition of Zalewski's acceptance of the new role, the company has granted him an equity award of 100,000 restricted stock units and an equity award of 75,000 non-qualified common stock options under the 2022 Equity Inducement Plan. These awards will vest over time, subject to Zalewski's continued employment with the company.
Following this change, Aquestive expressed gratitude for Braender's dedicated service and significant contributions to the legal and compliance foundation of the company. Braender will continue to serve as Corporate Secretary of Aquestive, transitioning to this role from April 2, 2026.
Aquestive is a pharmaceutical company that focuses on advancing medicines through innovative science and delivery technologies. The company is known for its expertise in delivering trusted, quality medications on oral film and operates as both a developer of proprietary products and a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) for licensees.
The leadership change at Aquestive reflects the company's strategic focus on advancing its mission and products, particularly the progress of Anaphylm and other potential dermatological treatments. Today the company's shares have moved -0.9% to a price of $3.31. For more information, read the company's full 8-K submission here.
