Jo Hallas: Experienced CEO & Non-Executive Director

**Jo Hallas (She/Her)** **Experienced CEO & Non-Executive Director of Global Industrial Technology and Consumer Businesses** **Location:** United Kingdom\ **500+ Connections**\ **2nd Degree Connection to David Falzani MBE** **About** Jo Hallas is an experienced CEO and Non-Executive Director wit...

**Jo Hallas (She/Her)** **Experienced CEO & Non-Executive Director of Global Industrial Technology and Consumer Businesses** **Location:** United Kingdom\ **500+ Connections**\ **2nd Degree Connection to David Falzani MBE** **About** Jo Hallas is an experienced CEO and Non-Executive Director with extensive expertise in leading global industrial technology and consumer-oriented businesses. Known for her dynamic leadership, strategic vision, and passion for transformation, Jo has a solid track record of driving growth, profitability, and sustainability in a range of sectors. She is recognized for her commitment to diversity, leadership development, and fostering innovation in both executive and non-executive roles. Currently serving as a Non-Executive Director at Smith+Nephew, Jo continues her dedication to impactful leadership and contributing to meaningful advancements in medical technology, enhancing people\'s lives worldwide. **Experience** **Non-Executive Director**\ **Smith+Nephew** (Feb 2022 -- Present \| 2 years 9 months)\ *United Kingdom*\ Smith+Nephew is a FTSE100 global medical technology company with a mission to help people live life without limitations. As a Non-Executive Director, Jo supports the board with strategic oversight, governance, and guidance on industry best practices, all in line with the organization\'s purpose, \"Life Unlimited.\" **Chief Executive Officer**\ **Tyman plc** (Mar 2019 -- Apr 2023 \| 4 years 2 months)\ Tyman plc, a FTSE250 company, is a leading global building products business with approximately £0.7bn in turnover and 4000 employees. Jo served as CEO, steering the business through significant transformation initiatives, optimizing performance across the group, and elevating its market position in the industry. **Non-Executive Director / Chair of Remuneration Committee**\ **Norcros plc** (Sep 2012 -- Jul 2019 \| 6 years 11 months)\ As a Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Remuneration Committee, Jo played a pivotal role in defining executive compensation structures, ensuring alignment between company strategy and incentivization at Norcros plc, a major supplier of high-quality showers, taps, tiles, and adhesives. **Business Group Director**\ **Spectris plc** (May 2014 -- Feb 2019 \| 4 years 10 months)\ In her role at Spectris, a FTSE250 leading supplier of productivity-enhancing technology, Jo oversaw a portfolio of seven global industrial technology businesses, including major brands such as Red Lion Controls and Omega Engineering. She provided strategic direction and operational improvements across two major business segments: Industrial Controls and In-Line Instrumentation. **General Manager, Global Residential Controls**\ **Invensys (acquired by Schneider Electric)** (Apr 2013 -- Apr 2014 \| 1 year 1 month)\ Jo extended her responsibilities at Invensys to cover Robertshaw HVAC, managing global residential control operations with a focus on the North American market. **Managing Director, EMEA Heating Controls Business Unit**\ **Invensys** (Mar 2009 -- Mar 2013 \| 4 years 1 month)\ Jo led P&L operations for the EMEA Heating Controls business unit, managing well-known brands such as Drayton and Eberle. **VP, Commercial Operations, Lawn & Garden Business Unit**\ **Bosch** (Mar 2005 -- Dec 2007 \| 2 years 10 months)\ Jo was responsible for the global commercial operations of Bosch\'s lawn and garden business unit, working on optimizing product portfolios and expanding market reach. **Director, Power Tools Division**\ **Bosch** (Apr 2004 -- Feb 2005 \| 11 months)\ Jo worked closely with the Power Tools executive committee on a series of strategic projects that involved market positioning and portfolio development. **Summer Associate**\ **McKinsey & Company** (Jul 2003 -- Aug 2003 \| 2 months)\ Jo contributed to a lean operations strategy for a major UK retailer during her time as a Summer Associate at McKinsey & Company. **Various Roles**\ **Procter & Gamble** (Oct 1993 -- Dec 2002 \| 9 years 3 months)\ Throughout her tenure at Procter & Gamble, Jo worked in various roles, leading strategic change and restructuring initiatives in international settings including Germany, the USA, Thailand, and the Netherlands. **Course Tutor**\ **The Outward Bound Trust** (1992 -- 1994 \| 2 years)\ Jo worked as a course tutor for The Outward Bound Trust, facilitating personal and leadership development programs for individuals and groups. **Sponsored Student Engineer**\ **Thorn EMI Electronics** (Sep 1988 -- Jul 1992 \| 3 years 11 months)\ Jo started her career at Thorn EMI Electronics as a sponsored student engineer, gaining hands-on experience in electronics engineering projects. **Key Skills & Competencies** - **Executive Leadership & Strategy**: Proven ability to lead complex organizations, drive profitability, and manage strategic transformations. - **Corporate Governance**: Significant board-level experience in remuneration, compliance, and corporate governance. - **Industrial Technology Expertise**: Comprehensive knowledge of industrial controls, instrumentation, and HVAC systems. - **Change Management & Transformation**: Demonstrated ability to lead strategic change and restructuring across multinational companies. - **Market Expansion & Business Growth**: Successfully managed global product portfolios, led growth initiatives, and expanded market reach. - **Operational Efficiency**: Expertise in enhancing productivity through lean strategies and optimizing P&L. **Education & Professional Development** While Jo\'s educational background is not explicitly detailed, it is evident from her career progression that she has undergone significant professional development and training relevant to leadership in global industrial and consumer businesses. **Personal Interests** Jo is passionate about leadership development and personal growth, having previously worked with The Outward Bound Trust, which reflects her commitment to education, empowerment, and resilience building. **Contact Information** *United Kingdom* This updated profile captures Jo Hallas's experience, her role as a board member and executive, and highlights her key achievements and leadership qualities. Let me know if you\'d like to add any other details or make further refinements! **Simon Barnes** **Managing Partner, Circadia Ventures LLP** **Location:** Greater London, England, United Kingdom\ **Connections:** 59\ **Education:** Fitzwilliam College, University of Cambridge\ **3rd Degree Connection** **About** Simon Barnes is the Managing Partner of Circadia Ventures LLP, where he has been leading investment efforts for over 18 years. With extensive experience in venture capital, Simon has managed a diverse portfolio focused on food sciences, industrial biotechnology, and digital health. He combines his deep expertise in entrepreneurship, investment management, and academic research to foster innovation and support breakthrough technologies. Simon holds a PhD in Plant Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Cambridge, where he also earned a First-Class BA in Natural Sciences. With a strong background in both the academic and business worlds, Simon has a track record of delivering impactful results in early-stage investments and entrepreneurship education. **Experience** **Managing Partner**\ **Circadia Ventures LLP** (2006 -- Present \| 18 years 10 months)\ *Greater London, UK*\ As Managing Partner of Circadia Ventures, Simon oversees £55 million in assets under management on behalf of Tate & Lyle. His primary focus is on investments in food sciences, industrial biotechnology, and digital health sectors. Under his leadership, Circadia Ventures has become a key player in identifying and fostering innovative companies with high growth potential in these fields. **Investment Manager**\ **Gimv** (2001 -- 2005 \| 4 years)\ *London, United Kingdom*\ At Gimv, Simon was responsible for managing investments in early-stage and growth-stage companies, primarily focusing on the life sciences and technology sectors. He played a critical role in identifying promising ventures and providing strategic guidance to portfolio companies. **Lecturer and Director of the Entrepreneurship Centre**\ **Imperial College London** (2001 -- 2005 \| 4 years)\ *London, United Kingdom*\ As Lecturer and Director of the Entrepreneurship Centre at Imperial College London, Simon combined teaching with academic research in the fields of entrepreneurship and venture capital. He developed and taught courses for MBA, M.Sc., and undergraduate programs, and authored several research articles and books related to venture capital and entrepreneurship. **Associate**\ **Atlas Venture** (1998 -- 2001 \| 3 years)\ *London, United Kingdom*\ Simon started his venture capital career at Atlas Venture, where he gained foundational experience in assessing early-stage investment opportunities and supporting portfolio companies in the life sciences and technology sectors. **Education** **Fitzwilliam College, University of Cambridge**\ **Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Plant Molecular Biology and Biochemistry**\ (1990 -- 1993)\ Simon earned his PhD with a focus on plant molecular biology and biochemistry, contributing to research at the forefront of scientific advancements in this field. **Fitzwilliam College, University of Cambridge**\ **Bachelor of Arts (BA), Natural Sciences**\ (1987 -- 1990)\ *Graduated with First-Class Honours*\ Simon completed his undergraduate studies in Natural Sciences, where he demonstrated academic excellence and developed a strong foundation in biology and biochemistry. **Key Skills & Competencies** - **Venture Capital & Investment Management**: Extensive experience in managing investments and guiding startups in life sciences, biotechnology, and digital health. - **Entrepreneurship Education**: Proven expertise in teaching and developing entrepreneurship courses for higher education, with a focus on venture capital and innovation. - **Academic Research**: Published author and researcher in plant molecular biology and venture capital strategies. - **Strategic Leadership**: Strong leadership in managing venture capital portfolios, identifying innovative technologies, and driving growth for portfolio companies. **Chris Martin, PhD, MBA** **Chairman \| Biopharmaceutical & Technology Innovator** **Location:** Greater London, England, United Kingdom\ **Current Roles:** - **Chairman**, Tokamak Energy - **Chairman**, Tagworks Pharmaceuticals - **Chairman**, Myricx Bio - **Non-Executive Board Member**, Osivax - **Former Co-founder and CEO**, ADC Therapeutics & Spirogen Ltd **About** Dr. Chris Martin is an accomplished executive with decades of experience leading transformative companies in the biopharmaceutical and technology sectors. With a strong background in chemical engineering and business management, Chris has co-founded and led several pioneering biopharma companies, including Spirogen Ltd and ADC Therapeutics. He is currently Chairman of Tokamak Energy, where he oversees the company's development of fusion energy technology, as well as Chair of Tagworks Pharmaceuticals and Myricx Bio, both of which are at the forefront of innovation in oncology and precision therapies. Chris has been instrumental in guiding these companies through significant milestones, including product development, clinical trials, regulatory approvals, and acquisitions. He specializes in corporate strategy, biopharmaceutical commercialization, and high-technology investments. His technical expertise, paired with his leadership in entrepreneurial ventures, has led to the successful commercialization of cutting-edge technologies, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and advanced fusion energy solutions. **Experience** **Chairman of the Board** **Tokamak Energy Ltd** (Jul 2015 -- Present \| 9 years 4 months)\ *Abingdon, Oxfordshire, UK*\ Chris leads Tokamak Energy, a world leader in the commercial development of fusion energy. The company combines spherical tokamak technology with high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets to develop fusion power plants. In 2022, Tokamak Energy achieved a major milestone by reaching a plasma temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius---marking a critical step toward making fusion energy commercially viable. **Chairperson** **Tagworks Pharmaceuticals** (Feb 2023 -- Present \| 1 year 9 months)\ *Netherlands/USA (Hybrid)*\ Chris chairs Tagworks Pharmaceuticals, a company pioneering precision therapies using its Click-to-Release technology. The company focuses on developing advanced antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for cancer treatment, enhancing therapeutic efficacy while reducing side effects. **Chairman** **Myricx Bio** (Nov 2023 -- Present \| 1 year)\ *London/Switzerland (Remote)*\ At Myricx Bio, Chris oversees the development of novel payloads for ADCs targeting cancer. The company's platform uses inhibitors of N-myristoyltransferases (NMT), an enzyme crucial to cancer cell survival, to address unmet needs in oncology. **Non-Executive Board Member** **Osivax** (Feb 2023 -- Present \| 1 year 9 months)\ *Paris, Île-de-France, France (Hybrid)*\ Osivax is a biopharmaceutical company utilizing its novel oligoDOM® nanoparticle platform to enhance vaccines by generating superior immune responses. Chris serves as a non-executive board member, helping steer the company's strategic direction as it advances its lead influenza vaccine candidate and explores broader applications in infectious diseases. **Co-founder and CEO** **ADC Therapeutics** (Jan 2012 -- May 2022 \| 10 years 5 months)\ *Lausanne, Switzerland*\ As co-founder and CEO, Chris led ADC Therapeutics to become a global leader in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), developing therapies for hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. Under his leadership, the company's CD19-directed ADC, ZYNLONTA, received FDA approval for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Chris played a pivotal role in the company's growth, including clinical development, regulatory milestones, and commercialization. **Co-founder and CEO** **Spirogen Ltd** (2000 -- Jun 2015 \| 15 years 6 months)\ *London, UK*\ Chris co-founded Spirogen, a biotechnology company developing highly potent cytotoxic payloads for ADCs. Spirogen's technology was licensed by companies like Seattle Genetics and Genentech before being acquired by AstraZeneca\'s MedImmune for \$440 million in 2013. Chris continued to lead Spirogen as CEO and became part of AstraZeneca's senior leadership team following the acquisition. **Chairman** **Crescent Diagnostics** (Feb 2006 -- Jul 2013 \| 7 years 6 months)\ *Dublin, Ireland*\ Chris chaired Crescent Diagnostics, a company focused on osteoporosis diagnostics using Raman Spectroscopy to assess bone quality. He guided the company through key stages of product development and commercialization. **Co-founder and Chairman** **Sciona Inc** (Jan 2000 -- May 2009 \| 9 years 5 months)\ *Boulder, Colorado, USA*\ At Sciona, Chris co-founded and led the company, which provided gene-based health and nutrition analysis, offering personalized recommendations based on individual genetic profiles. **Chairman of the Governors** **Ryde School** (Sep 2012 -- Jun 2018 \| 5 years 10 months)\ *Isle of Wight, UK*\ Chris served as Chairman of the Governors at Ryde School, a leading independent school, overseeing strategic planning and governance during his tenure. **Non-Executive Director** **Allianz Technology Trust PLC** (Jun 2004 -- Jul 2015 \| 11 years 2 months)\ *London, UK*\ Chris was a Non-Executive Director of Allianz Technology Trust, a UK-listed fund focusing on investments in mid-to-large technology companies. He provided guidance on the fund's investment strategy, targeting long-term capital growth in the technology sector. **Non-Executive Director** **Rainbow Seed Fund (UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund)** (May 2011 -- Oct 2017 \| 6 years 6 months)\ Chris served as a Non-Executive Director of the Rainbow Seed Fund, an early-stage investment fund backed by public bodies such as UKRI and BEIS. He supported the fund in investing in innovative UK-based technology companies. **Education** **IMD Business School**\ **MBA, Business Administration** (1988 -- 1989)\ Specialized in Management of Technology and Innovation, gaining skills essential for leading high-growth, technology-driven companies. **University of Oxford**\ **Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil), Engineering Science** (1980 -- 1984)\ *College:* Lincoln College\ Chris completed his PhD at the University of Oxford, where his research in engineering science laid the foundation for his career in technological innovation and biopharma. **Aston University**\ **Bachelor's Degree, Chemical Engineering (First Class Hons)** (1977 -- 1979)\ Graduating with first-class honors, Chris excelled in chemical engineering, providing the technical expertise that would underpin his later work in developing biopharmaceutical technologies. **Ryde School**\ Chris attended Ryde School, an independent day and boarding school, where he developed the foundational skills that propelled his academic and professional success. **Key Skills & Competencies** - **Biopharmaceutical Development & Commercialization**: Extensive experience in leading the development of innovative therapies from research to market. - **Fusion Energy Technology**: Chairing a leading company in fusion energy, advancing groundbreaking technologies for clean energy solutions. - **Corporate Governance**: Over 20 years of experience as a board member and chairman in both public and private companies. - **Entrepreneurship & Leadership**: Co-founded and led multiple biopharmaceutical companies, achieving significant industry milestones. - **Venture Capital & Strategic Investments**: Expertise in investing and guiding early-stage technology companies toward commercial success. **Stephen Lamb** **Chief Research Officer \| Engineering Leader in Biotech and Cryopreservation Technologies** **Current Role:** Chief Research Officer, Asymptote (part of Cytiva)\ **Location:** Cambridge, United Kingdom **About** Stephen Lamb is a highly experienced engineering and research leader with extensive expertise in cryopreservation technologies and bioprocessing solutions. Currently serving as Chief Research Officer at Asymptote (part of Cytiva), Stephen leads cutting-edge research in the development of advanced cryogenic storage and cold chain solutions. With a background in mechanical engineering and a strong focus on biotechnology, Stephen has played a pivotal role in advancing technologies that improve the preservation and transportation of cellular therapies. Stephen's career spans over two decades and covers a diverse range of engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering, project management, and design engineering. His leadership in research and development has helped drive innovation in fields such as medical device design, aviation materials research, and cryogenic systems for cellular therapies. **Experience** **Chief Research Officer** **Asymptote Ltd - part of Cytiva (formerly GE Life Sciences)** (2020 -- Present \| 4 years 10 months)\ *Cambridge, United Kingdom*\ As Chief Research Officer, Stephen oversees the research division of Asymptote, which specializes in cryopreservation and cold chain technology for biopharmaceutical applications. Under his leadership, Asymptote has continued to innovate in the field of cellular therapy preservation, providing solutions to enable the safe and effective storage of cells used in therapies and research worldwide. **Chief Research Officer** **Asymptote Ltd - part of GE Healthcare Life Sciences** (2017 -- 2020 \| 3 years)\ In this role, Stephen directed research initiatives focusing on bioprocessing and cold chain solutions, collaborating closely with GE Healthcare Life Sciences to enhance cryopreservation technologies for cell and gene therapies. **Head of Research and Development** **Asymptote Ltd** (2014 -- 2017 \| 3 years)\ As Head of R&D, Stephen led the development of next-generation cryopreservation tools and systems, helping Asymptote establish itself as a leader in biopreservation technology. His work enabled critical advancements in the preservation of biological materials used in pharmaceutical and research applications. **Design Engineer** **Self-Employed** (2011 -- 2014 \| 3 years)\ During this time, Stephen worked as a freelance design engineer, providing consulting and design services for various industries. His projects included designing mechanical systems for medical devices, consumer products, and industrial applications. **Mechanical Engineer** **Cambridge Design Partnership** (2007 -- 2011 \| 4 years)\ *Cambridge, United Kingdom*\ At Cambridge Design Partnership, Stephen worked on the development of medical devices and consumer products. He was involved in the full product lifecycle, from concept design to manufacturing, contributing to innovation in product design and mechanical systems engineering. **Project Engineer** **Xennia Technology** (2005 -- 2007 \| 2 years)\ As a Project Engineer at Xennia, Stephen was responsible for managing projects related to industrial inkjet technologies, focusing on system design and engineering for high-precision applications. **Mechanical Engineer** **ITT** (2004 -- 2005 \| 1 year)\ Stephen worked as a Mechanical Engineer at ITT, where he gained valuable experience in designing mechanical systems for industrial and infrastructure applications. **Materials Research Engineer** **University of Nottingham** (Jul 2002 -- Sep 2002 \| 3 months)\ *Nottingham, United Kingdom*\ Stephen participated in a summer research program in collaboration with Rolls Royce aviation, focusing on materials research. His work contributed to advancements in materials used in aviation technologies. **Student Placement** **Tyco Water (Viadux)** (Aug 2001 \| 1 month)\ *Sydney, Australia*\ Stephen completed a student placement at Tyco Water in Sydney, Australia, as part of a bursary program from the Worshipful Company of Founders. He gained experience in water infrastructure projects and materials engineering during his time there. **Education** **Details on education not provided.**\ Based on his extensive engineering and R&D experience, Stephen likely holds qualifications in mechanical engineering or related fields. **Key Skills & Competencies** - **Cryopreservation Technology**: Expertise in developing advanced cryogenic systems for biopharmaceutical applications. - **Research Leadership**: Proven ability to lead research teams and drive innovation in biotechnology. - **Mechanical Engineering**: Strong background in mechanical design, materials science, and system engineering. - **Project Management**: Skilled in managing complex engineering projects, from concept to execution. - **Bioprocessing Solutions**: Specialized in developing bioprocessing technologies to support cellular therapies and gene therapy applications.