EP 1 Virtual Fireside Chat with Marta Helena Lesko (VP, Head of Neurology and Immunology BD at Merck KGaA)
Ahead of the launch of the First4Founders community in 2024, CharaBio is proud to produce the “What Pharma Want” series. We will kick this off with a Virtual Fireside Chat with Marta Helena Lesko, VP and Head of Immunology and Neurology Business Development team at Merck KGaA (see BIO below).
This event is tailored for scientists and biotech entrepreneurs eager to gain valuable insights into how to deal with Big Pharma Companies. Securing in-licensing deals offers significant advantages to both parties involved and it gained even more traction recently due to the challenging macroeconomic climate.
Some of the points we will cover include:
1. How much in advance should you start the outreach
2. How to build a good pitch
3. How are the macro trends affecting partnering
You will also gain a unique perspective on what Business Development and Licensing in Pharma is like in real life!
Episode 1 with Dr. Marta Helena Lesko (VP, Head Neurology and Immunology Business Development at Merck KGaA)
This event is a must-watch for scientists, medical doctors, biotech entrepreneurs, and C-suite executives seeking to get the most out of their innovation and strategically plan a deal with Big Pharma. As part of the First4Founders initiative, CharaBio is dedicated to fostering the next generation of biotech leaders.
You can now watch the first episode on our YouTube Channel CharaBio Talks
Find out more about our “Do-it-Yourself” and “Do-it-Together” options for biotech founders
Marta Helena Lesko’s BIO
Marta Helena Lesko, VP and Head of Immunology and Neurology Business Development team at Merck KGaA. Marta has over 8 years of experience in business development in various roles including Oncology as well as heading Technologies and Externalizations team. Marta has led and overseen negotiations of over 70 transactions, with up to triple digit upfront.
She has always been passionate about translating research into beneficial outcomes for patients, and hence finds business development her sweet spot. Additionally, Marta is interested in organizational behavior, change management and is passionate about mentoring and developing others.
Prior to joining Merck, Marta was part of a translational academic team of Prof Sergio Quezada at UCL Cancer Institute developing a novel immunotherapeutic agent that was consequently licensed to Roche. Marta holds a PhD in Genetics from University of Cambridge and BSc(Hons) in Biochemistry from UCL.
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Whether you’re a brilliant scientist, a medical doctor, or an experienced industry professional, we speak your language. First4Founders welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for biotech, pharma, and healthcare innovation.