Boston — Latus Bio, a biotechnology company focused on advancing next-generation AAV gene therapies, has announced two key additions to its executive team as it continues to scale operations and expand strategic partnerships. Ainslie Little, Ph.D., has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, while Katie Hewitt joins the company as interim Chief Business Officer.
The appointments mark a significant step forward for Latus Bio as it prepares to advance its pipeline of genetic therapies and broaden its reach through new collaborations. CEO P. Peter Ghoroghchian, M.D., Ph.D., said the hires reflect the company’s commitment to building a world-class leadership team. “Ainslie’s operational leadership and Katie’s business development expertise will be instrumental as we progress our programs and expand the scope of our partnerships,” he said.
Dr. Little brings two decades of experience aligning scientific innovation with strategic execution. She previously held senior leadership roles at BlueRock Therapeutics, where she helped grow the company from a preclinical startup to a clinical-stage subsidiary of Bayer AG. Her background in corporate strategy, operations, and intellectual property makes her well-suited to guide Latus through its next phase of growth. As COO, she will oversee day-to-day operations and lead strategic planning and implementation.
“I’m honored to join Latus at this exciting phase of its growth,” said Dr. Little. “Our next-generation AAV technologies and therapeutic candidates have remarkable potential to alter the treatment landscape of genetic diseases. I look forward to helping the team scale operations and realize the full promise of this science.”
Katie Hewitt, who steps in as interim Chief Business Officer, brings extensive experience in business development and corporate strategy. She is currently CEO of BioVenture Advisors and previously spent 25 years at Eli Lilly, most recently as Global Head of Business Development for Lilly Catalyze. Her expertise spans dealmaking, pricing and access strategy, and leadership in emerging therapeutic modalities.
“Latus is pioneering extraordinary science,” said Hewitt. “My aim is to enable the platform to realize its transformative potential with the right combination of partners, capital, and collaborations. With numerous opportunities on the horizon, I’m committed to channeling our momentum toward meaningful impact.”
With these appointments, Latus Bio strengthens its leadership bench as it positions itself to become a major player in the gene therapy space.
