ASAP BioPharma Conference

3:00-3:20

Pacific D/E

3:20-4:00

Pacific D/E

Session 101: How Alliance Managers Can Deliver Strategic Value to the Executive Level, Cindy Warren, Tracy Blois, Tomoko Hanadate

As the boundaries between business development and alliance management blur, a new generation of alliance leaders is stepping up to deliver more strategic value—before, during, and long after the deal is signed.

This panel will bring together Chief Business Officers and senior alliance leaders from biopharma, biotech, and health tech to explore how alliance management is evolving into a strategic advisory function. Panelists will share perspectives from both the C-Suite and the alliance desk, revealing how alliance professionals can better anticipate needs, strengthen feedback loops, and position themselves as indispensable partners in driving organizational success.

Key Takeaways

• Feedback Loops that Matter: How to create effective two-way communication with senior leadership.
• What the C-Suite Values Most: Insights from Chief Business Officers on what truly drives impact.
• Elevating Your Role: Concrete ways alliance managers can demonstrate and expand their value.
• What Your Boss Wishes You Knew: Unspoken expectations and lessons that can accelerate your growth.

4:00-4:30

Pacific D/E

Session 102: Exploring New Alliance Models: A Thesis on Building Alliance Capabilities in Emerging Life Science Companies, Nancy Griffin

Emerging life science companies face unique challenges when entering into inter-firm collaborations for the first time. This presentation will provide an overview of the research conducted and the associated results from a study that was carried out in support of a Doctoral Dissertation to investigate the experiences of alliance organizations engaging in first time collaborations. The outcomes of the study lead to the development of a knowledge framework designed to facilitate the learning and embedding of new ways of working in collaborations. Developed on the basis of adult learning principles, the framework directs new alliance practitioners through guiding questions built around four strategic dimensions to arrive at customized deliverables in support of alliance best practice outcomes

4:30-5:00

Pacific D/E

Session 103: Revolutionizing Contract Management: GenAI Solutions Tailored for Alliance Managers, Sumeet Bagga & Adam Gates

Discover how Merck developed an AI-powered system that transformed chaotic manual processes into a streamlined, intelligent solution for alliance management. Learn about the technical approach, implementation challenges, and measurable business impact of applying AI to real-world enterprise data management.

5:00-5:30

Pacific D/E

Session 104: Proving the Value: Why and How Alliance Work Must Be Seen, Shared, and Celebrated, Brian Stewart

Transform your alliance management function from an invisible contributor to a recognized strategic partner. In this essential session, you'll learn proven strategies for elevating alliance management's visibility and demonstrating its measurable value across your organization. We'll explore effective methods for documenting and publishing your work, ensuring your critical contributions are seen and understood. You'll discover best practices for communicating impact to key stakeholders, along with practical approaches for sharing insights both within your department and across the broader organization. Most importantly, you'll gain the tools needed to build lasting recognition for alliance management as a strategic function that drives business success. Join us to ensure your critical work finally gets the visibility and appreciation it deserves, positioning you and your team as indispensable strategic partners in your organization's growth.

5:30-7:00

Atlantic Ballroom

Opening Welcome Reception (all invited) - Sponsored by Jazz Pharmaceuticals

Let the rhythm set the tone! Our welcome reception, sponsored by Jazz Pharmaceuticals, blends live jazz, a signature sip, light hors d'oeuvres, and plenty of chances to connect with fellow attendees. 

Join at 6:00 for a fun 30 minute fast paced networking activity in the Atlantic Atrium Foyer.  All are welcome.

6:00-7:00

Meet in Hotel Lobby

Brooke's Boston Stroll

7:00 - 8:00

Atlantic Ballroom

8:00-8:20

Pacific D/E

8:20-9:00

Pacific D/E

Keynote Session 105:  Alliance Leadership in the Age of AI: What Technology Can’t Replace, Angus Grant, PhD

Artificial intelligence is transforming how the biopharma industry discovers, develops, and delivers new therapies—from accelerating molecule discovery to optimizing manufacturing. Yet amid all the technological disruption, the foundation of alliance management remains distinctly human. Drawing from decades of leadership experience and other global biopharma organizations, Angus Grant explores how trust, influence, and leadership—not algorithms—continue to determine alliance success.

This keynote reflects on lessons learned from more than sixty collaborations and what remains timeless despite waves of change. From navigating geopolitical uncertainty and trade policy to managing partnerships through digital transformation, Angus highlights how today’s alliance professionals must balance the noise of innovation with the fundamentals of human connection.

While AI may sharpen our tools, it cannot replace the judgment, empathy, and credibility that define effective collaboration. This talk offers a pragmatic and inspiring reminder that as technology advances, the core of alliance management—building relationships, fostering trust, and leading with integrity—remains irreplaceable.

9:00-9:40

Pacific D/E

Session 106: A Strategic Approach to Alliance Tiering, Fireside Chat Moderated by Arne Wörn with Aida Bendt, Chris Black, Katherine Kendrick, and Petra Sansom

Many companies managing alliance portfolios use some system of alliance tiering. In this fireside chat, diverse, experienced Alliance Management leaders from small, mid-sized and large pharmaceutical companies will discuss different criteria to consider for alliance tiering (“how?”), and potential applications of tiering systems in daily Alliance Management life (“why?”). Particular focus is put on the “so what” of alliance tiering systems: how can they be used strategically? How and why can they add value to alliance leaders in companies of different sizes?

9:40-10:10

Pacific D/E

Session 107: From Manager to Confidant: Evolving Your Role as Alliance Manager Into a Trusted Advisor, Adam Kornetsky, Julie Salganik

As deal structures become increasingly complex, alliance leaders must evolve from behind-the-scenes operators to strategic enablers and trusted advisors to senior leadership. This session explores how to transcend traditional roles and establish yourself as an indispensable strategic partner, drawing from Vantage's proven Trusted Advisor framework and insights from high-performing organizations. Learn the essential behaviors, competencies, and mindsets that build executive credibility and influence, while discovering practical strategies for shifting from reactive problem-solver to proactive value creator. Whether you're a seasoned professional ready to elevate your impact or newcomer eager to fast-track your strategic voice, you'll gain actionable guidance for speaking the language of leadership and becoming the go-to advisor your organization needs at the executive table.

10:10-10:40

Pacific D/E

Session 108: Alliance Dynamics: Driving Success in Early Research Partnerships, Elnaz Atabakhsh, Karen Berna, Kevin Little, Kristin Rosner

As biopharmaceutical research complexity increases, pharma companies can no longer conduct innovation programs in isolation, driving unprecedented growth in early research partnerships with academia and biotech. This multi-perspective session brings together industry leaders to share how different companies structure and execute successful early research collaborations that solve and treat complex diseases. Explore diverse partnership models, examine both contractual frameworks and cultural considerations that enable effective collaboration, and discover practical strategies for building the relationships that fuel today's most innovative research programs in an increasingly interconnected biopharma ecosystem.

10:40-11:00

Pacific Foyer

BREAKOUT TRACKS

Track 1: Interactive Insight Exchange

Facilitator:
Jan Twombly

Pacific A/B

Session 201: Embracing Digital Dexterity for Alliance Management, Helena Cowley, Dhruv Desai, Andrew Ferguson, Nick Heath, Kristin Rosner

Participants are invited to an engaging session focused on strengthening digital dexterity skills and leveraging digital tools within alliance management. At Takeda, there is a dedication to fostering Digital Dexterity throughout the R&D organization, driving innovation for patients by prioritizing key themes such as everyday AI, collaboration, personal productivity, data literacy, and automation. The R&D Global AM team features Digital Dexterity Champions from each therapy area, committed to guiding and inspiring their teams.

The session will offer the ASAP community the opportunity to engage in dynamic roundtable discussions, encouraging the sharing of experiences, exchanging ideas, and collective exploration of ways to become Digital Dexterity Champions within their own organizations. Together, attendees will learn about Digital Dexterity mindsets and unlock the potential of digital tools to drive innovation and advancement.

Track 2

Facilitator:
Petra Sansom

Pacific C

Session 301A:  Practical Considerations for a Successful and Stress-Free Launch, Brian Lam

11:00-11:20

Alliance Managers hold the key to seamless partnership launches, but success begins long before contract signing with careful attention to often-overlooked "customizable" contract details that can dramatically reduce launch stress for both parties in research collaborations. This practical session explores critical contract formation considerations including JSC membership optimization (determining the right participants and committee size), governance structure decisions (when is a JRC truly necessary versus optional?), strategic launch timing (avoiding year-end complications), and immediate post-contract obligations (managing materials transfers and data deliverables from day one). Learn how to identify and negotiate these seemingly minor but mission-critical elements during contract formation to ensure your organizational and partnership needs align perfectly, enabling you to deliver smooth, successful launches that set the foundation for long-term collaborative success.

Session 301B:  Beyond Metrics: Building Mindsets, Celebrating Milestones, and Shaping Reputation in Strategic Partnerships, Saghar Nourian

11:20-11:40

While KPIs remain essential for measuring partnership success, they're only part of the story—true collaboration impact requires understanding how success is achieved, who's involved, and how value is communicated. This session introduces a comprehensive framework that complements traditional metrics by integrating milestone storytelling, external reputation building, and mindset development to create stronger, more adaptive partnerships. Learn how strategic milestones like co-publications and regulatory achievements become powerful alignment tools when co-defined and celebrated, discover methods for leveraging these successes to build external visibility through compliant social media and thought leadership strategies, and explore how fostering continuous learning through feedback loops and retrospectives creates resilient partnership cultures. Participants will gain practical tools to complement KPIs with strategic milestones, strengthen external reputation through effective communication, and embed continuous improvement practices that shift from metrics-only approaches to meaning-driven partnerships where structure, storytelling, and shared values drive lasting success.

Track 3:
Partnership Case Study Spotlight

Facilitator:  Cindy Yang

Pacific H

Session 401: Daiichi Sankyo & Merck Oncology Collaboration, Moderated by Jill McGuinn with Ryo Arakane, Lisa Blair, Christine David, Rina Matsushima, Josh Miller

A panel discussion featuring leaders from Daiichi Sankyo and Merck, highlighting their collaboration on pharma’s largest collaboration, inclusive of four (4) oncology assets in a global co-development and co-commercialization. The session will cover key topics, including governance models, communication tools, and effective cross-asset collaboration. Relatable experiences and practical takeaways will be shared to enhance future partnerships.

Transition Break

BREAKOUT TRACKS

Track 1:
Interactive Insight Exchange

Facilitator: 
Jan Twombly

Pacific A/B

Session 202: Due Diligence and Negotiation: Early Involvement of Alliance Managers for Future Successful Partnerships , Virginie Gurson, Romuald Laine

The role of an alliance manager has evolved significantly due to industry changes, technological advancements, and business needs. The role has become more strategic, requiring a long-term vision to anticipate market trends. Overall, the role demands adaptability and agility in responding to a constantly changing environment and seizing new opportunities.

At Servier the Alliance Managers are involved in the Due Diligence coordinating the whole R&D team. By giving an overview of the process, we’ll present the role of AMs before, during and after the due diligence.

We’ll share use cases where the AMs:

• Influenced the drafting of the Non-Binding Offer and final contract.
• Are leading the drafting of the Transition Plan with the partner.
• gain exposition by Presenting to the Governance the recommendation from R&D

We’ll finally discuss how we can influence the organization to involve the AM in such process.

Takeaways:

Track 2

Facilitator: Petra Samson

Pacific C

Session 302A: Building a Scalable Model for Asset Close-out and Out-Licensing Readiness, Delira Robbins

11:45-12:05

As biopharma portfolios evolve, the need for structured, cross-functional asset close-out and out-licensing processes has become increasingly critical. The Asset Close-Out and Transition Team (ACTT) at Amgen was established to address this need by creating a scalable, repeatable model that ensures operational continuity, legal compliance, and strategic readiness for out-licensing opportunities. This presentation will explore how ACTT integrates alliance management, regulatory, clinical, operations, and legal functions to streamline transitions, reduce risk, and preserve asset value. Lessons learned from recent transitions, including how ACTT supports due diligence, manages data room readiness, and translates deal terms into actionable execution plans will be shared. Attendees will gain insights into how to build internal alignment, maintain functional accountability, and develop standardized playbooks that can be adapted across programs. This topic is especially timely as companies face increasing pressure to optimize resource allocation and maximize the value of shelved or deprioritized assets.

Session 302B: The Path to Smarter, Streamlined Alliance Management with Optimized Digital Tools, Julie Settipani

12:05-12:25

Digitalization is a key component for alliance leaders to maximize the value of their alliance portfolios. This presentation explores the state of digitalization in alliance management across 20 top biopharmaceutical companies. Drawing from in-depth interviews, usage data, and real-world case studies, it introduces a practical framework to assess digital maturity across five key pillars. Attendees will gain a clear roadmap to move from manual, siloed practices to integrated, insight-driven alliance operations — and understand what digital alliance leaders are doing differently.

Track 3
Joint Impact: Partnership Case Study Spotlight

Facilitator: Brooke Paige

Pacific H

Session 402: Formation and Execution of a Cross-Industry, Multi-Partner Alliance Accelerating Drug Discovery Using Genomic and Medical Record Data, Maegan Harden, Katherine Ellison

The Alliance for Genomic Discovery (AGD) represents a breakthrough in cross-industry collaboration—a 10-partner alliance between Illumina, Nashville Biosciences, and 8 pharmaceutical companies that successfully delivered whole genome sequence and EMR data for 250,105 individuals to accelerate drug discovery across competing organizations. This session explores how alliance management principles enabled the creation of a novel governance structure featuring an Alliance Council with representation from all partners, subject matter expert-led technical meetings, and a customized data storage solution addressing complex security, privacy, and sharing restrictions. Learn how strategic alliance design transcended traditional competitive barriers to generate a shared data resource available to all partners for their individual drug discovery pipelines, demonstrating a new model for industry collaboration that delivers collective value while respecting individual competitive interests.

Track 4

Facilitator: Katherine Kendrick

Pacific F/G

Session 203: The Next Era of Digital Health:  Global Innovation for a Healthier World, Timothy Hsiao

Biopharma acquisitions, including those evolving from existing collaborations, present unique challenges for alliance leaders as they implement solutions to achieve successful mergers. This presentation will highlight two case studies of small biotech acquisitions exploring challenges such as cybersecurity issues, data privacy concerns, and issues in clinical trial operations. Solutions for common process issues such as integration delays and siloed work will also be addressed. Learnings from these success scenarios provide guidance for identifying challenges and implementing solutions applicable for alliance leaders and their partner functions of BD, HR, IT, quality and senior leadership.

12:25-1:25

Atlantic Ballroom

Community Lunch

BREAKOUT TRACKS

Track 1
Interactive Insight Exchange

Facilitator: Jason Felsch

Pacific A/B

Session 204: From Collaboration to Publication: Aligning Disclosure in High-Stakes Biopharma Alliances, Celine Hechard, Doug Williams

Navigate the strategic minefield where partnership transparency meets competitive advantage in this highly interactive session focused on disclosure management challenges that define successful biopharma alliances. Alliance management leaders will guide participants through a compelling real-world case study that illuminates the complex tensions and critical trade-offs inherent in joint publication planning, followed by facilitated small-group discussions where attendees tackle similar dilemmas including coordinating cross-company authorship, resolving timing misalignments, and managing conflicting messaging strategies. Through peer collaboration and expert facilitation, participants will develop practical, field-tested tools and strategies for successfully navigating disclosure challenges while maintaining both scientific integrity and essential partnership trust—essential skills for any alliance professional managing the delicate balance between collaboration and competition.

Track 2

Facilitator: Helene Svahnqvist

Pacific C

Session 403: Standing Up Investment-Backed NewCo Alliances, Jacqueline Dim, Alissa Fernald, Nina Liu

This peer learning session provides practical insights into the critical phases of deal implementation, alliance governance design, and cross-functional collaboration that enable successful new company formation, while sharing how alliance managers have navigated the expanding scope of their roles beyond traditional boundaries within the NewCo model. Participants will gain actionable strategies for managing multi-stakeholder interests, establishing effective governance frameworks, and leading collaborative efforts across diverse partnership structures, making this essential learning for alliance professionals involved in complex venture formations or considering how their roles continue to evolve in innovative partnership models.

Track 3
Interactive Demo

Facilitator: Romuald Laine

Pacific H

Session 404: Operational Playbook: Avoiding Alliance Pitfalls in Emerging Biopharma, Tiffany Adams-Newsome

Track 4

Facilitator: Louis Rinfret

Pacific F/G

Session 501: Best Practices for Evolving Collaborations, Partnerships, and Acquisitions Into Successful Mergers, Tressa Allington

Biopharma acquisitions, including those evolving from existing collaborations, present unique challenges for alliance leaders as they implement solutions to achieve successful mergers. This presentation will highlight two case studies of small biotech acquisitions exploring challenges such as cybersecurity issues, data privacy concerns, and issues in clinical trial operations. Solutions for common process issues such as integration delays and siloed work will also be addressed. Learnings from these success scenarios provide guidance for identifying challenges and implementing solutions applicable for alliance leaders and their partner functions of BD, HR, IT, Quality and senior leadership.

Transition Break

2:10-2:50

Pacific Foyer

BREAKOUT TRACKS

Track 1
Interactive Insight Exchange

Facilitator: Jason Felsch

Pacific A/B

Session 205: Orchestrating Without a Baton: The Art of Alliance Leadership Without Authority, Swati Prasad

Today's alliance professionals are enterprise leaders operating in matrixed systems where formal authority is limited but stakes are high, making influence—not hierarchy—the critical success lever. This interactive session equips alliance leaders with advanced strategies for navigating uncertainty, misalignment, and complexity across diverse partnerships involving academic medical centers, venture-backed biotechs, global co-development partners, and foundations. Grounded in behavioral science and real-world alliance dynamics, learn to diagnose invisible influence barriers, activate stakeholder motivation amid competing priorities, reframe conflicting scientific narratives, and leverage informal channels when governance stalls. Through a live mini-case walk through and audience role-play, participants will apply key tools in real-time simulated governance conflicts, leaving with a practical influence toolkit to drive clarity across silos and lead complex partnerships with confidence and agility—essential skills for alliance professionals ready to expand their strategic voice and lead at the next level.

Track 2

Facilitator: Helene Svahnqvist

Pacific C

Session 303A:  From Outsider to Insider: Lessons from a Newcomer's Journey Into Alliance Management, Claire Patterson

2:10-2:30

Discover how to successfully transition into alliance management from outside the discipline through one practitioner's journey from a non-traditional background into a global biopharma alliance role. This session shares practical strategies for rapid skill development, building credibility, and contributing to strategic partnerships without formal alliance management experience—including working remotely at a new company. Learn which fundamentals to prioritize first, how to leverage transferable skills for quick traction, the essential coaching and support needed for success, and strategies for engaging in cross-functional projects that build organizational visibility and trust. Perfect for professionals considering the transition and hiring managers looking to broaden their talent pipeline beyond traditional alliance management backgrounds.

Session 303B:  Managing Complexity in Rare Disease Collaborations: Governance, Trust and Shared Goals, Nicole Le Grand, Rebecca Wilson

2:30-2:50

Discover how alliance management is transforming within rare disease through innovative partnership models that span geographies, sectors, and disciplines. This interactive session explores LifeArc's experience establishing a dedicated alliance management function—from mapping diverse partnership portfolios to building credibility as a distinct discipline—before examining their £40million Translational Centres programme uniting universities, clinical teams, charities, and funders nationwide. Learn practical strategies for balancing philanthropic funding with collaborative working, developing flexible governance models that maintain partner alignment on patient outcomes amid shifting landscapes, and successfully embedding new alliance teams while bringing multiple stakeholders together around shared rare disease goals.

Track 3
Panel Discussion

Facilitator:  Romuald Laine

Pacific H

Session 405: Living Beyond the Contract: New Frontiers in Partnership Success, Tyson Bertmaring, Christine Klatt, Monique Yoakim-Turk, Kara McCarthy Perry, Sue Feury

What if partnership success depended less on complex contracts and more on shared outcomes? This transformative session challenges traditional alliance frameworks by exploring innovative approaches to value creation that foster deeper collaboration, agility, and mutual growth in complex, dynamic markets. Discover pioneering strategies that move beyond conventional alliance management toward integrated partnership success models, where professionals take broad strategic approaches to proactively drive desired outcomes rather than simply managing agreements. Learn how thinking beyond contractual structures unlocks new possibilities for meaningful collaboration and sustainable value creation that benefits all partners.

Track 4

Facilitator: Louis Rinfret

Pacific F/G

Session 206: Ask Me Anything, Jeremy Ahouse

Join us for an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session, a candid forum for practitioners to surface complexities that don’t fit neatly into playbooks. Together, we’ll examine how alliances thrive amid uncertainty, navigate governance tensions, and transform conflict into creative collaboration. Bring your toughest questions and join a conversation designed to strengthen both your alliances and your leadership practice.

Afternoon Break

Welcome Back, Aida Bendt

3:15-3:45

Pacific D/E

Session 109: Alliance Leadership in Anxious Times, Jan Twombly

The biopharmaceutical industry faces unprecedented uncertainty—from research funding cuts and regulatory volatility to supply chain shocks—while alliance leaders must deliver differentiated value with fewer resources amid exciting new partnerships between unusual partners. Drawing from recent experiences and research, this session examines how leaders can foster resilience and agility among alliance teams and governance committees, enhance operations, and align stakeholder interests to drive success in anxious times. Participants will gain specific strategies for empowering alliance teams to self-manage without losing visibility, techniques for navigating sudden resource losses, and methods for maintaining stability and confidence while leading alliances through organizational change and external disruptions—essential skills for alliance professionals operating in today's complex, dynamic environment.

3:45-4:15

Pacific D/E

Session 110: When Equal Isn't Equal: Cracking the Code of 50:50 Alliances, Andi Gardner, Carl Olson

Pharmaceutical 50:50 alliances are often positioned as a powerful model for value creation—bringing together complementary strengths, balancing investment and risk, and promising co-funded innovation with shared accountability. When managed effectively, they accelerate development timelines, expand market access, and deliver meaningful patient and business outcomes.

 Equal ownership, however, does not guarantee equal vision or seamless execution. If not thoughtfully designed and actively managed, alliances can encounter governance friction, cultural disconnects, or competing priorities. These risks become most evident as partnerships advance toward commercialization, where decisions on go-to-market strategy, pricing, reimbursement, and capital allocation attract heightened executive attention. In such moments, equal funding without clear decision rights may slow momentum or create frustration across stakeholders.

The good news is that these pitfalls are not inevitable. With the right structures and leadership, 50:50 alliances demonstrate resilience and impact. This session shows how alliance managers, executive sponsors, and cross-functional teams turn complexity into collaboration.

Participants will gain practical insights into the enablers of success, including:

• Selecting and empowering high-performing alliance managers.
• Establishing lean governance models with clarity of authority.
• Sustaining active executive sponsorship throughout the alliance life cycle.

 Attendees will leave with strategies to anticipate challenges, strengthen alignment, and unlock the full potential of 50:50 alliances.

4:15-4:45

Pacific D/E

Session 111: Managing Risk in Strategic BioPharma Alliances: Practical Tools, Real Impact, Samuel Gosselin, Sharon Morgenbesser

This session transforms how risk is understood, communicated, and addressed within biopharma partnerships by demystifying alliance risk management for cross-functional stakeholders beyond alliance management. Learn specific processes and tools alliance professionals use to monitor, triage, and escalate risks effectively, while discovering how legal, finance, BD, corporate strategy, clinical development, and commercial teams can partner more strategically with alliance teams. Gain practical insights into embedding risk management within successful alliances and develop skills to mitigate risks early, strategically, and constructively through enhanced cross-functional collaboration that strengthens partnership outcomes. 

4:45-5:15

Pacific D/E

Session 112: Increase Your Chance of Successful Integration Following Acquisition, Moderator: Adam Kornetsky, Panelists:  Aida Bendt, Judy Campagnari, and Romuald Laine

Successful integrations often hinge how well organizations can successfully align cultures, orchestrate cross‑functional delivery, maintain operational continuity, and ensure that the value drivers associated with the deal remain front in center to the integration theory. For many organizations Alliance Management is responsible for achieving these goals.

Drawing on real‑world experience, panelists will unpack the intersection of alliance and integration management with best practice approaches for navigating operational complexity, strategic portfolio decisions, international boundaries, and cross‑functional risk management. Attendees will gain practical strategies for establishing clear governance, transparent communication, and continuity planning—critical to unlocking greater value, retaining key talent, and preserving relationships—while learning how alliance and integration managers serve as the connective tissue between strategy and execution in complex integrations.

Networking Reception

Afterglow Reception (all invited) - Sponsored by Vantage Partners

Unwind and be amazed at the Afterglow Reception, sponsored by Vantage Partners! Enjoy sweet treats, signature sips, and mind-bending entertainment from a live illusionist. Stick around for your chance to win team training giveaways—must be present at 9:00 PM to claim your prize!

6:30-7:30

Pacific A/B

Morning Yoga with Swati

Rise and renew with a calming morning yoga session led by Swati Prasad. Mats are provided—just bring your breath and start your day with intention.

7:00-8:00

Mediterranean

7:00 - 8:30

Atlantic Ballroom

8:30-8:40

Pacific D/E

8:40-9:20

Pacific D/E

KEYNOTE Session 113:  Building Strategic Alliances for Breakthrough AI Innovation, Sarah Korman

The rise of AI is redefining the boundaries of what is possible in drug discovery and development. Yet no single company can realize this potential alone. In this keynote, Sarah Korman, PhD JD, Chief Business and Legal Officer at Isomorphic Labs, will explore how alliances are becoming critical accelerators of innovation in an AI-driven world.

Drawing on her cross-disciplinary expertise in intellectual property, biopharma operations, and frontier AI applications, Sarah will highlight how companies can structure partnerships that deliver scalable impact—balancing speed, trust, and governance while navigating a rapidly shifting scientific and regulatory landscape. She will share lessons from building collaborations at the intersection of AI and life sciences and offer a forward-looking perspective on how alliance professionals can position themselves to unlock new value for patients, partners, and the broader ecosystem.
This session will set the stage for a day focused on where alliance management is heading next—towards scalable, AI-powered, and patient-centered innovation.

9:20-9:50

Pacific D/E

Session 114: AI in Action: Simplifying Alliance Management for Greater Influence and Impact, Louis Rinfret

While AI promises industry revolution, its real value emerges through practical applications already simplifying alliance management for leading biopharma organizations. This interactive session demonstrates how AI is streamlining operations and enhancing strategic decision-making, showing you firsthand how these tools can elevate your alliances and drive measurable outcomes. Move beyond AI hype to discover actionable applications you can implement in your day-to-day work, gaining practical knowledge that boosts your influence and impact while positioning your alliance management function at the forefront of digital transformation in biopharma partnerships.

9:50-10:35

Pacific D/E

ASAP Roundtable Topic Discussions

1. Alliance Leaders as Strategic and Trusted Advisors (Facilitator: Amanda McAllister)
   Explore how alliance leaders can elevate their role from operational execution to trusted advisors influencing corporate strategy.
2. AI in Alliance Management (Facilitator: Kristy McGuire)
   Discuss where artificial intelligence is making the biggest impact—from forecasting and decision-making to decentralized models—and how alliances can accelerate adoption.
3. Digital Health Partnerships (Facilitator: Nick Heath)
   Examine how digital platforms, decentralized trial designs, and real-world data tools are transforming collaboration and patient access.
4. Redefining Success Metrics (Facilitator: Beatrice Lana, PhD, CA-AM & David Vallo, CA-AM)
   Consider how alliances should measure success beyond financial milestones, including patient outcomes, innovation speed, and ecosystem value.
5. Navigating the Biotech–Big Pharma Divide, (Facilitator: Anna Skabeev)
   Share strategies to bridge cultural, structural, and scale differences between emerging biotechs, and established pharmaceutical companies.
6. Leadership in Times of Disruption (Facilitator: Aditi Soni)
   Examine how leaders can maintain partner trust while navigating M&A, shifting pipelines, and external pressures.
7. The Future of Data Ecosystems, (Facilitator: Janine Gilkes)
   Debate governance, intellectual property, and data-sharing models that enable collaboration while protecting value.
8. Patient Centric Partnerships (Facilitator: Scott Mosier)
   Explore how alliances can integrate patient voices and needs directly into R&D, clinical trials, and commercialization.
9. Global Headwinds & Geopolitical Climate (Facilitator: Katherine Ellison)
   Reflect on how regulatory shifts, supply chain challenges, and geopolitical dynamics are shaping the future of global alliances.
10. Education, Research & the Next Generation of Innovation (Facilitator: Katherine Walsh)
    Discuss how academia, industry, and training programs can collaborate to advance research and prepare future talent for evolving alliance roles.

1035-11:15

Pacific D/E

Session 115: Navigating Challenging Alliance Dynamics – A Conversation, Moderated by Erin Gibson with Lauren Griffey, Nick Marchese, Cindy Yang

Alliances are vital to driving innovation. Yet, alliances often encounter challenges stemming from organizational disparities, cultural mismatches, and the interpersonal dynamics of the cross-company teams. In this panel, we will explore real-world examples, highlighting key obstacles that emerged and how alliance teams navigated them. Panelists will share candid insights into strategies they implemented to address challenges, and what worked—or didn’t. Attendees will gain practical takeaways, including lessons learned through retrospective reviews, that can help improve alliance outcomes.

11:15-11:45

Pacific D/E

Session 116: Driving Alliance Performance Through Commercial Quarterly Business Reviews, Sonia Espana, Yaminah Leggett-Wells