Meet the LifeScience ORG CEO
Per Walday - Exact Therapeutics
Who or what called you to lead?
My motivation stems from a deep-seated passion for science and a commitment to driving meaningful change for the benefit of patients and society.
Growing up in Sweden, I frequently went scuba diving and thus became fascinated with the underwater environment and marine biology. I wanted to become a marine biologist, but as I delved deeper into the field of biology, I found myself drawn to physiology, especially human physiology. I was intrigued by the intricate mechanisms that allow organisms to function, adapt, and survive within their environments.
My Ph.D. project, which was led by the US Army, centered on combating nerve gas poisoning — a pressing concern ahead of the Gulf War – and led me to work in the pharmaceuticals and life sciences industry for the first time.
After working for a large U.S. corporation for some time, I began to desire a more agile environment, where decisions could be made swiftly and driven forward faster. Subsequently, in 2008, I became the CEO of PCI Biotech.
I quickly learned that working in biotech is like riding a rollercoaster. It is marked by continuous challenges and hurdles that demand adaptation and strategic shifts in response. During my time at PCI Biotech, we encountered significant challenges, notably the termination of a cancer study, which caused a substantial setback for the company.
However, my motivation remained rooted in scientific curiosity and the drive to effect positive change. Through perseverance and strategic restructuring, we managed to rebuild the company and embarked on a promising new registration study with encouraging initial clinical results.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our progress yet again. After battling additional setbacks, the final straw for me was the emergence of a competitor's superior treatment. It was one restart too many. After almost 14 years at PCI, I recognized the need for fresh leadership and perspective to lead the company forward.
I transitioned to Exact Therapeutics. I was drawn to it by its innovative technology based on focused ultrasound for therapeutic applications. I saw an opportunity to contribute to its development and was motivated by the possibility of rebuilding the organization.
Throughout my career, leadership roles naturally came to me as I sought to inspire others, orchestrate progress, and translate scientific advancements into tangible benefits.
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