Valion Bio Appoints Dean Zikria as Interim CEO

What Happened Valion Bio, Inc. announced on Sept. 22, 2026 that director Dean Zikria (age 58) has been appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Zikria has served on the company’s board since July 10, 2019 and will continue as a board member while serving as Interim CEO. The company also disclosed board leadership changes and a director resignation in connection with this appointment.

Key Details

• Appointment effective date: September 22, 2026. Consulting agreement term runs through January 22, 2027 unless extended.
• Cash compensation: $23,333 per month under the consulting agreement (Mr. Zikria will serve as an independent contractor).
• Equity: 50,000 restricted stock units (RSUs) granted now; an additional 50,000 RSUs payable upon an approved increase in the company’s equity plan and committee approval.
• Potential transaction bonus: Mr. Zikria may be eligible for a cash bonus upon closing of a strategic transaction (e.g., reverse merger, merger or acquisition), as determined by the Board or Compensation Committee.
• Board changes: Director Sheryle Bolton resigned effective Sept. 17, 2026 (not due to disagreement). Thomas Jensen was named Board Chair and Chair of the Compensation Committee; Jared Malbin was named Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. Mr. Zikria was removed from several Board committees while serving as Interim CEO.

Why It Matters This filing signals a near-term leadership change at Valion Bio and establishes the terms (cash and equity) for the interim chief executive role. For investors, relevant takeaways are the potential costs (monthly consulting fees and equity issuance), the company’s openness to a strategic transaction (possible bonus tied to such a deal), and a reshuffled board leadership following the resignation of a director. These developments can affect governance, strategic direction and potential dilution from RSU grants.