New chair appointed to Scotland’s life sciences industry leadership group

Scotland’s life sciences sector marks the start of a new era with the appointment of Dave Tudor, VP of Primary Supply for GSK, as industry chairman of the Scottish Life Sciences Industry Leadership Group.

Based at GSK’s site in Irvine, Dave, who will take up the role early November 2016, brings over 20 years of industry experience, and will play an instrumental role in driving the industry’s ambition for growth forward.

The Life Sciences Scotland Industry Leadership Group, (LSS), is a joint industry, enterprise, academia and government strategic team that aims to help ensure Scotland is creating and shaping the best possible environment for fledgling technologies and established players alike in the sector.

Commenting on his appointment, Dave said: "I am both delighted and excited about taking on the role of chairing the Scottish Life Sciences Industry Leadership Group. I am extremely passionate about the life science industry and very proud of Scotland’s contribution within it. Life sciences improve the health and wellbeing of millions of people, not just nationally, but around the globe.

Dave takes over as chairman from Dr John Brown who has led the group for over a decade.

Dave continued: “I would like to acknowledge John Brown's significant contribution during his time as chairman. It is my intention to continue to build upon all the positive developments the group has made in recent years.

“We set out in 2011 with a very clear ambitious strategy to increase the economic contribution of life sciences in Scotland by 2020. I am determined to make this a reality and I look forward to working with the Industry Leadership Group, Scottish Enterprise, the Scottish Government and our life sciences community to deliver this dynamic strategy.”

Dr John Brown, CBE, FRSE, commented: “Having been chair of the Life Sciences Industry Leadership Group for over 12 years, I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the growth of our sector. I am delighted that Dave Tudor will succeed me in November. Dave is ideal for the role, which is key to advising and informing Government on issues of strategic importance to the life sciences sector. I wish Dave and my fellow ILG members all the very best for the opportunities ahead.”

Minister for Business, Innovation and Energy Paul Wheelhouse said: “I would like to congratulate Dave Tudor on his new role as chair of Life Sciences Scotland. He is already a valued member of LSS and has contributed significantly to the group’s ambition to ensure the industry’s success in Scotland. His knowledge of the industry and expertise, not only in Scotland but globally, are incredible assets and I have no doubt that his proven track record and excellent leadership skills will be of huge benefit. I look forward to continuing working with him to promote the Scottish Life Sciences industry.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the outgoing chair, Dr John Brown, for his time and commitment to Life Sciences Scotland. His constant enthusiasm and dedication has been crucial in shaping the aspirations of the industry in Scotland and I want to ensure the gratitude of the Scottish Government and the wider membership of Life Sciences Scotland is recorded at this time and wish Dr Brown well for the future.”