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Tamara Dillon

Chief Human Resources Officer

Tamara Dillon - Chief Human Resources Officer, Alkeus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.



Professional Overview


Tamara Dillon is the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) at Alkeus Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a role she assumed in July 2024. Alkeus Pharmaceuticals is a private biopharmaceutical firm based in Cambridge, MA, focused on developing therapies for serious eye diseases with high unmet need.

Key Responsibilities & Contributions



  • Leadership: Tamara is recognized as a strong leader with significant commercial experience. She excels in building both small and large companies, driving organizational growth, talent management, and cultural transformation.

  • Scaling the Organization: With the company gearing up to support the development and commercialization of gildeuretinol acetate (ALK-001), Tamara’s role is critical in scaling the organization.

  • Cultural Transformation: Her notable expertise in creating and nurturing a purpose-driven, collaborative, and inclusive culture is pivotal for Alkeus’ expansion and achieving its mission to improve patients' lives.


Previous Experience


Before joining Alkeus Pharmaceuticals, Tamara accumulated extensive experience in high-level human resources roles:

  • Chief People Officer at Butterfly Network, Inc. (2022-2023): Led HR functions and corporate communications, including culture, talent acquisition, learning, and development.

  • Chief People Officer at Akebia Therapeutics (2012-2020): Managed HR strategies, pivotal in scaling the company, and led multi-year culture transformation projects. Her responsibilities included:

  • Merger integration

  • Corporate reputation initiatives

  • Patient advocacy function

  • Serving as Chief of Staff to the CEO

  • Global Leadership Roles: Held positions at:

  • Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research: Head of Human Resources

  • Genzyme, a Sanofi Company: Senior Director-Human Resources


Educational Background


  • Undergraduate Degree from Cornell University: Provides a strong foundation in human resources and leadership.


Company Background: Alkeus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.


  • Founded: 2010

  • Headquarters: Cambridge, MA

  • Funding: Backed by institutional investors, led by Bain Capital Life Sciences

  • Focus: Developing therapies for serious eye diseases

  • Lead Candidate: Gildeuretinol acetate (ALK-001), a breakthrough-designated molecule for treating Stargardt disease and geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).


About Gildeuretinol Acetate (ALK-001)


  • Design and Function: A specialized form of deuterated vitamin A aimed at reducing dimerization of vitamin A, thereby preventing retinal degeneration.

  • Clinical Trials:

  • Phase 3 (SAGA) Trial: Evaluating effectiveness in 200 patients with geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to AMD. Topline data expected in 2024.

  • Designations: Received breakthrough therapy and orphan drug designations from the U.S. FDA.


Statements from Company Leadership


  • Michel Dahan, President and CEO of Alkeus Pharmaceuticals:

  • Praises Tamara’s extensive experience and leadership qualities.

  • Emphasizes her role in building culture and preparing the organization for scaling alongside the development and commercialization process of ALK-001.


Personal Statements by Tamara Dillon


  • Committed to fostering a collaborative and dynamic work environment.

  • Aims to leverage her HR expertise to ensure Alkeus thrives and achieves its mission to significantly improve patient outcomes.


Contact Information


  • Media Relations: media@alkeuspharma.com

  • General Inquiries: info@alkeuspharma.com


Professional Online Presence




This detailed report outlines Tamara Dillon's professional trajectory and her current strategic role at Alkeus Pharmaceuticals, highlighting her significant impact on organizational growth and cultural transformation within the biotech industry.