Insights from Optimum’s 15th Annual Healthcare Investor Conference 2023

Optimum Strategic Communications celebrated its 15th Annual Healthcare Investor Conference – marking its crystal anniversary – and what a sparkler it was! Optimism, preparation, and resilience, these were the key takeaways from our wonderful speakers on Wednesday 11 October at the Wellcome Trust.

Check out our panel summaries below to learn more or to rediscover insights from the day!

 

Fireside chat with Clive Cookson & Kasim Kutay

As CEO of Novo Holdings, and therefore responsible for managing the assets and wealth of the Novo Nordisk Foundation, Kasim discusses the trends driving the Company’s investment strategy and its commitment to investing in companies that contribute to the sustainability of society and the planet.

Keynote and Fireside chat with Professor Sir Chris Whitty

Professor Whitty, the UK Government’s Chief Medical Adviser and head of the public health profession, as well as a practising NHS Consultant Physician and epidemiologist, shared his insights in a keynote speech, followed by a fireside chat and Q&A chaired by Optimum’s Nick Bastin.

How can the UK better capitalise on its life sciences prowess? Chaired by Dan Mahony

With world-renowned universities pursuing cutting-edge science, a deep pool of talent, and great infrastructure, the UK has long been a hotspot for innovation. But is it truly capitalising on its brainpower? Lead by Chair of BIA and UK Life Sciences Investment Envoy, Dan Mahony, and with Allan Marchington, ICG,  Annalisa Jenkins, Genomics England, and Gil Bar-Nahum, Jefferies, the panel discussed what needs to be done to ensure the UK fulfils its potential and maintain its position as a top-tier life sciences hub amidst growing competition from around the globe.

Navigating turbulent markets – Chaired by Stephen Hansen

Over the last few years, the pace of world class innovation has quickened, supported by a boom in private investment – yet this has not translated through to public markets. Instead, 2023 has seen weaker global public markets, where life sciences companies have struggled. Our panel of experts discussed what this means for companies looking at how to fund the next stage of their development. Chaired by Stephen Hansen, BioCentury, with speakers Linden Thomson, AXA Investment Managers, Geraldine O’Keeffe, EQT Life Sciences, Naveed Siddiqi, Novo Holdings and Joe Anderson, Sofinnova Partners.