On August 30, 2021, Sesen Bio, Inc. (the “Company”) approved a restructuring plan to reduce operating expenses and better align its workforce with the needs of its business following receipt of the complete response letter from the US Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) regarding the Company’s Biologics License Application for Vicineum™ for the treatment of BCG-unresponsive non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Execution of the restructuring plan is expected to be substantially complete by the end of the fourth quarter of 2021.
The restructuring plan includes a reduction in the Company’s workforce by approximately 18 positions (approximately 35%) as well as additional cost-saving initiatives intended to preserve capital while the Company continues development of Vicineum. The Company expects that these reductions will decrease its annual cash costs by approximately $5.7 million. The Company currently estimates that it will incur aggregate restructuring charges in the third quarter of approximately $5.8 million, consisting primarily of one-time costs of approximately $3.0 million associated with the termination of certain contracts and severance and other employee-related costs of approximately $2.8 million.
Sesen Bio is committed to the highest standards of ethics and integrity and continues to believe in the safety and efficacy data of Vicineum. The Company intends to work closely with the FDA to understand next steps for Vicineum.