Regeneron CEO Dr. Leonard Schleifer on Science-Driven Success

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Oct 30, 2025

Dr. Leonard Schleifer, co-founder and CEO of Regeneron, shares his journey from academia to leading a groundbreaking biotech company. He recounts the challenges of early fundraising and the humorous anecdotes from pitching Genentech. Discussing Regeneron's focus on science-driven research, he highlights advancements in treating allergies, oncology, and neurodegenerative diseases. Schleifer also explores the role of AI in drug development and outlines innovative plans for personalized healthcare through genomic data, emphasizing a patient-first culture.

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ANECDOTE

Humble Origins And Long Road To Success

Leonard Schleifer recounted founding Regeneron in 1988 with George Yancopoulos and surviving years of losses before success in 2011.
He described pitching to Genentech, the embarrassing company-store moment, and raising $99M in a 1991 IPO.

INSIGHT

Founder-Led Science Drives Strategy

Regeneron follows scientific opportunity rather than market wishlists and is led by medically trained founders.
That founder-led, science-first structure gives the company a sustained competitive advantage.

INSIGHT

Genetics Unlocks New Neuro Targets

Large-scale genetics linked to medical records reveals disease targets previously out of reach.
Regeneron's sequencing investments enable new understanding and therapeutic approaches for neurodegeneration.

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Regeneron has pioneered innovative treatments for various diseases under the leadership of Dr. Leonard Schleifer, co-chair, president, and CEO of Regeneron. In this Talks at GS conversation with Goldman Sachs president and COO John Waldron, Dr. Schleifer discusses Regeneron's founding story, its focus on science-driven research, and the potential breakthroughs in healthcare.

This episode was recorded on October 8, 2025.

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