On Thursday 4 June 2026, we hosted a fascinating in-person panel discussion exploring the evolving IPO landscape and its strategic role for growth companies.
This marked our second collaboration with Discovery Park and introduced a new co-host – Frazier & Deeter, an accounting and advisory firm specialising in the Life Sciences sector.
The event included a lively discussion centred on a practical and highly relevant question for founders: Is an IPO genuinely the right move, or is it better viewed as a tool for strategic leverage?
To help answer this question, we were joined an outstanding panel of speakers:
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Antony Odell – Experienced C-Level Executive & Non-Executive Life Science Entrepreneur
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Mark Carnegie-Brown – Chair/Coach/Trustee/Advisor, specialising in strategy, talent and transformation
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James Douglas (Frazier & Deeter) – Advisor on CFO strategy and IPO readiness for growth companies
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Max Herrmann – Executive at Pharma & Biotech Consulting (PBC)
Chaired by Renos Savva (Discovery Park), the session delivered practical insights grounded in real-world experience.
Key themes included IPO vs alternative growth routes, early preparation, choosing the right market and the shift in leadership post IPO.
Five key takeaways stood out:
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Treat IPO as one option, not the end goal
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Start early and build strong foundations
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Choose your listing market strategically
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Leadership focus shifts post-IPO
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Timing and communication are critical
The session was followed by networking over drinks and canapés, with a strong level of engagement and discussion continuing throughout the evening.
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