April 18, 2016
Genome British Columbia (Genome BC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Pascal Spothelfer as President & Chief Executive Officer beginning Monday, June 6.
Dr. Spothelfer joins Genome BC with a wealth of business and commercialization experience with which to lead the organization into the next decade. In the current strategic plan 2015-2020, Genome BC lays the long-term foundation to grow genomics applications, translation and commercialization in BC.
With capability that spans private enterprise, the not for profit sector and academia, Spothelfer possesses the expertise necessary to lead and enhance Genome BC’s position across its sectors of interest. His international experience includes time as a management consultant with the Boston Consulting Group and as an executive of Jenoptik AG in Germany. After four years as President and CEO of NovAtel Inc. in Calgary, Spothelfer moved to Vancouver where his local background includes President and CEO of Spectrum Signal Processing, over three years at the helm of the BC Technology Industry Association (BCTIA) and Vice President Communications and Community Partnerships at the University of British Columbia where he built relations with government and the community. His understanding of social sciences and humanities grounded in a strong legal education and background, will assist Genome BC to further lead genomics innovation on Canada’s West Coast and facilitate a deeper integration of genomics into society.
“We look forward to welcoming Dr. Spothelfer into the role of President & CEO on June 6th. With his proven track record, I am confident he will provide the leadership and vision necessary to further enhance Genome BC’s position as a key driver of BC’s bioeconomy; optimizing impact for all British Columbians,” says Dr. Ian de la Roche, Chairman, Board of Directors, Genome BC. “Pascal’s extensive experience and significant success in leading strategic innovation and change will help to strengthen Genome BC’s already strong track record.”
“I would also like to recognize the invaluable contribution of Dr. Alan Winter who has been at the helm of Genome BC for the past 14 years”, says Dr. de la Roche. “Alan’s leadership and strategic vision have positioned both the organization and province as a genomics power house in Canada. The strong government and community support experienced by the organization is a true testament to Alan’s character and expertise.”
“To serve as Genome BC’s next President & CEO is a real honour and privilege and I am very excited about the opportunity to bring my diverse experience to this extraordinary organization.” says Spothelfer, “Genome BC, under Alan Winter’s great leadership, has grown into a globally recognized supporter and facilitator of genomics research and its translation into social and economic benefits. I look forward to building upon this base and to expanding Genome BC’s activities, notably in the areas of applied research, translation and commercialization.”
Spothelfer holds a law degree and a PhD in Law from the University of Basel in Switzerland and a MBA from INSEAD in Fontainebleau, France.
The appointment of Dr. Spothelfer follows a comprehensive national executive search led by the Board of Directors following the retirement announcement of Dr. Winter late last year. Winter will continue in his role of President & CEO until June 6th and help with the transition until mid-July 2016.
