Wisdom From The Top with Guy Raz From Lab to C-Suite, Then Turning Around a Startup, ft. George Scangos (Biogen)
Aug 7, 2024
George Scangos, a former lab researcher turned CEO of Biogen, shares his remarkable journey from academic roots to biotech leadership. He discusses the art of decisive leadership, emphasizing the importance of embracing failure in cultivating a thriving culture. Scangos also highlights the challenges of transforming Biogen during a crucial period and the need for authenticity in leadership. He reflects on the complexities of navigating crises in pharma and the vital role of transparency and accountability.
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Mission Drift From Growth
- Biogen was founded on decoding genes and pioneering biotech, but drifted away from core strengths as it scaled.
- Scale introduced unfocused projects and acquisitions that diluted the company's original mission.
From Lab Bench To Business Role
- George left academia to join Molecular Therapeutics and do translational science that could make real drugs.
- He learned business by participating in meetings and was sent to Bayer's Germany center to modernize a department and learn R&D operations.
Lead By Trusting Expertise
- Leading large organizations requires shifting from technical detail to managing people who manage others.
- The CEO's job is judging when to intervene and trusting people who know more about the details.