As an investor in the biotech industry, today’s guest, Felice Verduyn-van Weegen, brings a different perspective to the podcast as we discuss her approach to making investment decisions! Listen in as she shares some of the key factors she considers before investing in a company and her thoughts on what it takes to be a successful investor and entrepreneur.

About Felice Verduyn-van Weegen:

Felice Verduyn-van Weegen is a Partner at EQT, in the life sciences venture team. She holds an MSc in Neuroscience and an MBA from Columbia Business School. Before taking on her current role, Felice worked as a neuroscientist and statistical geneticist and then as a consultant at McKinsey & Company. She also started a foundation called Healthcare Embassy (Zorgambassade) to improve the healthcare system in the Netherlands.

Episode highlights:

One of the key indicators of acquisition success is cultural fit (i.e. the values and foundational principles of your organization). So, if you are acquiring a company or your company is going to be acquired, ensure that you emphasize the cultural aspects of the transition. (07:25)
Just as investors need to carefully consider where they invest their money, investees need to be discerning about who they take money from. The right investors can benefit a business financially and from a networking perspective, so don’t take the decision lightly. (16:21)
As is the case with investors, your reputation as an entrepreneur is everything. Build your reputation by becoming someone to whom people want to reach out. Network by attending conferences, meeting people for coffee, or doing podcast interviews! (25:58)
No matter how much we know, there is always more to learn. Constantly pursue knowledge but also accept the fact that you won’t be able to know it all. (27:05)
Many investors want to become part of the team they are investing in. So, if you’re looking for investments, ensure that you give them a chance to participate and that your team is an attractive one to work with. (28:32)

Felice’s best advice for entrepreneurs:

“A key factor in the investment decision is always the team.” (28:17)

Connect with Felice:

Follow Beyond 8 Figures:

Isaac Campos, “Home Grown: Marijuana and the Origins of Mexico’s War on Drugs” (UNC Press, 2012)