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.
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 was selected on the back of the role she has played in developing and expanding Biotec Services into a globally-recognised clinical trials supplies specialist.
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 £1.3 billion.
Last year, a £100 million Wales Life Sciences Investment Fund was launched to help grow the sector and a Life Sciences Hub will open soon.