Prime Medicine Taps Biotech Finance Veteran as CFO Amid Clinical Milestones — Prime Medicine, Inc.

Event summary

Svetlana Makhni appointed CFO of Prime Medicine on April 16, 2026.
Makhni brings 20+ years of biotech finance and investment banking experience.
Previously led finance at Marengo Therapeutics, Escient Pharmaceuticals, and Bierman ABA.
Oversaw high-value partnerships with Ipsen and Gilead Sciences at Marengo.
Appointment coincides with Prime Medicine's preparation for clinical trials in Wilson Disease and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency.

The big picture

Prime Medicine's appointment of Svetlana Makhni as CFO underscores the company's strategic focus on financial discipline and capital markets expertise as it transitions from preclinical development to clinical-stage trials. With a background in both biotech finance and investment banking, Makhni's experience aligns with Prime Medicine's need to navigate complex partnerships and investor relations during this critical phase. The move reflects broader industry trends where clinical-stage biotechs prioritize CFOs with dual expertise in operational finance and strategic deal-making.

What we're watching

Clinical Execution: How Prime Medicine's transition into clinical trials for Wilson Disease and AATD will impact its financial strategy under Makhni's leadership.
Partnership Strategy: Whether Makhni can replicate her success in securing high-value partnerships at previous roles within Prime Medicine's platform.
Capital Markets Dynamics: The pace at which Prime Medicine will need to engage with investors as it advances its diversified portfolio of genetic therapies.