The Chief Executive of Biotec Services International has been appointed to provide strategic guidance and expertise to the Welsh Government as it aims to support and develop the international profile of the life sciences sector in Wales.
Dr Fiona Withey, who is well-known internationally throughout the sector, has been selected on the back of the instrumental role she has played in developing and expanding Biotec Services into a globally-recognised clinical trials supplies specialist.
Biotec Services has provided support for 100s of biopharmaceutical development projects for clients across the globe. The company has built an impressive reputation for temperature controlled packaging and distribution services at temperatures ranging from controlled room temperature down to minus 196°C.
On her appointment, Dr Withey said: “I am delighted to lend my expertise to the Welsh Government to help further the life sciences sector in Wales. I’m very keen to use my experience of growing Biotec Services internationally to help continue to develop, shape and influence the future of the life sciences sector in Wales and its long-term position as a global player.
“Wales is a wonderful place for the location of the life sciences community – we have several centres of academic excellence, dynamic businesses, exciting start-ups, an expert and committed NHS, and a highly-supportive Government.
“It is an exciting time for the sector and there are significant opportunities to make an even greater contribution to the economy. I’m looking forward to working with the Welsh Government and my fellow panel members to maximise Wales’ position globally at the top of the life sciences field.”
Life sciences is one of the key sectors of the Welsh economy. It employs around 10,000 people in over 300 companies and is currently worth £1.3bn.
Last year, a £100m Wales Life Sciences Investment Fund was launched to help grow the sector and a Life Sciences Hub will be opening its doors soon.
The Life Sciences Hub Wales will act as a focal point for the whole of the sector, including academic, business, clinical and funding communities, creating a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem for life sciences businesses; promoting scientists, experience and expertise within Wales, the UK and throughout the world.
Dr Withey joins Dr Berwyn Clarke, Executive Chairman PBD Biotech Ltd, Chairman NALIA Systems Ltd, Entrepreneur in Residence, Cardiff University, Dr Grahame Guilford, a former Director at GE Healthcare, Dr Fraser Logue, Managing Director and Vice President at Siemens Healthcare Diagnostic Products and Professor Gareth Morgan, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Professor of Paediatrics and Immunology, College of Medicine, Swansea University.
Welsh Government Economy Minister, Edwina Hart said: “The new members will strengthen the Life Sciences Sector Panel, which provides me with very valuable advice on how we can help this important sector grow. With five members we now have a broad range of experience and knowledge which reflects the growth in this sector in Wales.”