LB Pharmaceuticals Inc. announced on September 15, 2026, that Susan G. Kozauer, M.D., has been appointed as the Company’s Chief Medical Officer, effective September 14, 2026.
Dr. Kozauer, age 54, brings over two decades of experience in neuropsychiatric drug development. Her most recent role was Senior Vice President, Head of Clinical Development at Centessa Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company, where she led the clinical development for its orexin agonist portfolio. Previously, she served as Vice President of Clinical Development at Intra-Cellular Therapies, Inc., overseeing the late-stage development of CAPLYTA (lumateperone) in adult and pediatric indications.
In connection with her appointment, Dr. Kozauer entered into an employment agreement. Under the terms of this agreement, she is entitled to an initial annual base salary of $515,000 and a target annual discretionary bonus of 40% of that salary. Additionally, she will receive a one-time cash sign-on bonus of $150,000, payable within 30 days of her start date. The agreement also stipulates that Dr. Kozauer will be granted an option to purchase 200,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. This option will vest over four years, with 25% vesting on the first anniversary of her start date and the remainder vesting monthly thereafter.
Regarding severance, the agreement outlines specific benefits in the event of termination without cause or resignation for good reason. If such a termination occurs outside of a change of control, Dr. Kozauer is entitled to nine months of continued base salary and reimbursement of COBRA premiums for up to nine months. If a change of control occurs within 12 months prior to or following her termination, she is eligible for a lump sum payment equal to one year of her base salary plus 150% of her target bonus, as well as the acceleration of all unvested equity awards.
