From Academia to Investment Powerhouse

Dr. Hollowood’s journey began not in the boardroom, but in the hallowed halls of academia. Armed with a degree in Natural Sciences and a PhD in Organic Chemistry, both from the prestigious University of Cambridge, his early career leaned towards the scientific side of healthcare. However, a keen business mind lurked beneath the surface, eventually leading him to transition from the lab to the world of investment.

A Passion for Healthcare Investment

Dr. Hollowood’s foray into investment started with Bioscience Managers Ltd and Neptune Investment Management Ltd, honing his financial acumen. He then took the plunge into the venture capital world, joining Apposite Capital LLP as a partner. This experience proved pivotal, allowing him to combine his scientific background with a deep understanding of the financial intricacies of the healthcare sector.

The Syncona Era: Building a Legacy in Gene Therapy

In 2012, Dr. Hollowood joined Syncona Investment Management Ltd, marking the beginning of a truly transformative period. Recognizing the immense potential of gene therapy, he spearheaded the development of a comprehensive strategy, specifically focusing on areas like the eye, liver, kidney, and central nervous system.

Dr. Hollowood’s vision wasn’t simply theoretical. He actively participated in founding companies like Nightstar, a retinal gene therapy pioneer acquired by Biogen for a staggering $877 million in 2019. This success story was followed by Gyroscope Therapeutics, another retinal gene therapy company, which Novartis snatched up for a whopping $1.5 billion in 2022. These lucrative exits not only showcased Dr. Hollowood’s foresight but also provided Syncona with the resources to fuel further innovation.

Beyond Acquisitions: A Leader Who Nurtures

Dr. Hollowood’s leadership extends beyond deal-making and acquisitions. He actively chairs companies like Beacon, Spur, and Purespring, fostering their growth and ensuring they remain at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs.

His role as a board member at Yellowstone further demonstrates his commitment to building a robust and diverse portfolio within Syncona.

A Keen Eye for Talent: Building a Dream Team

Dr. Hollowood understands that innovation thrives on a strong foundation. He has meticulously assembled a team at Syncona that mirrors his own expertise. The Syncona Investment Management team boasts a unique blend of scientific minds and seasoned commercial veterans, creating a synergy that fuels groundbreaking advancements. This dedication to attracting top talent has positioned Syncona as a magnet for the brightest minds in life sciences.

Philanthropy and Social Responsibility

Dr. Hollowood’s impact extends beyond the realm of business. He is a strong believer in the power of philanthropy and giving back to society. His involvement in various initiatives highlights his commitment to ensuring that Syncona’s advancements translate into real-world benefits for patients worldwide.

The Future of Healthcare: A Visionary at the Helm

As Dr. Hollowood steers Syncona towards the future, his vision remains clear: to create a world where life-altering diseases become a relic of the past. With his unwavering dedication to scientific progress, investment acumen, and talent for building a world-class team, there’s little doubt that Syncona will continue to be a driving force in the life sciences revolution.

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Chris Hollowood’s journey from scientist to CEO exemplifies the power of combining scientific expertise with business acumen.
• His leadership at Syncona Investment Management Ltd has transformed the company into a leader in gene therapy and life sciences innovation.
• Dr. Hollowood’s commitment to fostering talent and social responsibility ensures Syncona’s advancements benefit not just investors, but patients worldwide.