Life Sciences Hub Wales has appointed five non-executive directors to join its board to play a critical role in shaping the organisation’s future strategic direction.

The new directors will actively support the organisation in making Wales the place of choice for health and wellbeing innovation through sharing tactical insight and guidance. Each non-executive director brings a wealth of experience that spans life sciences, health and social care and finance, which will help to accelerate the innovation landscape across Wales.

Erica Cassin has extensive expertise in leading organisational change across multiple sectors, with past roles including the HR Director of UK and Ireland for Novartis.

Victoria Bates has over twenty years of experience within the health and pharmaceutical industry. She has held director level roles within the life science sector, including leading Health Care Operations at Pfizer UK, enabling value based partnerships. She now works as a leading consultant facilitating collaboration.

With expertise in value based healthcare and digital healthcare, Professor Hamish Laing enjoyed a long career as a reconstructive plastic surgeon in the NHS before working at executive director level in a health board. He is now a Professor of Enhanced Innovation, Engagement and Outcomes at Swansea University.

Len Richards is currently the Chief Executive of the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board. He has extensive expertise in delivering health care management and working collaboratively with an array of health care providers.

Peter Max has been appointed as the Financial Non-Executive Director, with a focus on audit and risk. He brings extensive experience working within executive and non-executive roles across health and social care, with a background in private equity and corporate finance.

Minister for Health and Social Services Vaughan Gething said “I am delighted to announce five new appointments to the Board of Life Sciences Hub Wales. As you would expect, the standard of applicants was very high, and each will bring a wealth of experience to help take the Hub forward as we look to the future.

“Life Sciences Hub Wales has and continues to play an important role in Wales’ response to the coronavirus pandemic, looking at innovative ways to source crucial supplies and digital solutions.

“At its core, the Hub is committed to continuing to support the acceleration and adoption of innovation across health and social care and beyond the current crisis. I look forward to working with Victoria, Erica, Hamish, Len and Peter at a pivotal time for Wales and the UK.”

Chris Martin, Acting Chair of the Board of Life Sciences Hub Wales, said “I am delighted to welcome our new Non-Executive Directors to Life Sciences Hub Wales Board. We are looking forward to benefitting from their expertise in leading the organisation at such a dynamic time.”

Cari-Anne Quinn, CEO of Life Sciences Hub Wales, said “The appointment of our new Non-Executive Directors comes at an important time, as we continue working with and supporting industry, health and social care. The experience of our new colleagues presents an opportunity for bringing about positive change to both the health and social care landscape and economy in Wales.”