(Sharecast News) - Drug discovery firm Synairgen revealed on Wednesday that it had tapped Joseph Colliver to take over as chief financial officer.

Synairgen said Colliver will take over from current CFO John Ward on 6 November, with the latter stepping down from the role on 3 November following an orderly handover period.

The AIM-listed firm highlighted that Colliver has "significant financial leadership experience", including most recently as CFO and non-executive director of several listed life sciences companies.

Chief executive Richard Marsden said: "Joseph's many years of listed company experience, including in the healthcare sector, will stand us in good stead as we progress towards the clinic with our SNG001 strategy. I'd like to thank John for his steadfast commitment, loyalty, and support to both me and the board over many years. We wish him the very best for the future."

As of 1025 BST, Synairgen shares were up 1.12% at 7.49p.

Reporting by Iain Gilbert at Sharecast.com