29 September 2026
Medicines Discovery Catapult (MDC) has appointed Dr Mike Strange as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Mike joined MDC in February 2025 as the organisation’s first Managing Director and has served as Interim CEO since February 2026. He brings more than 25 years of experience spanning pharmaceutical and vaccine research and development, commercial operations, strategy and partnership development.
Announcing the appointment, Dr Robin Brown, Chairman of Medicines Discovery Catapult, said:
“The Board is delighted to appoint Dr Mike Strange as MDC’s CEO. Since joining as Managing Director and subsequently serving as Interim CEO, Mike has provided strong leadership and helped shape the organisation’s future direction. Mike brings a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the sector, alongside a strong commitment to MDC’s mission. The Board has every confidence in his ability to lead MDC and deliver on its ambitions in this next phase of growth.”
Dr Mike Strange, Chief Executive Officer of Medicines Discovery Catapult, said:
“Since joining MDC, I have seen first-hand the expertise, commitment and capabilities that make it such a vital part of the life sciences landscape. It is a privilege to lead our talented team as we expand MDC’s contribution to the sector, working in partnership to accelerate innovation. Together, we will help translate the UK’s most promising scientific breakthroughs into new treatments that improve patients’ lives.”
Prior to joining MDC, Mike was Head of Global Health at LifeArc, where he led a £100 million programme focused on accelerating scientific innovations in antimicrobial resistance, neglected tropical diseases and emerging viral threats. Mike previously spent more than two decades at GSK, where he established industry-leading partnerships, including the Tres Cantos Open Lab and the Africa Non-Communicable Diseases Open Lab. His last role there was Vice President, Global Health Catalyst.
As CEO of MDC, Mike will continue to lead its mission to help turn promising scientific discoveries into new medicines that improve patients’ lives, while supporting innovation and growth across the UK life sciences sector.
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