Capitalizing on momentum in Canada’s biotechnology sector gained during the COVID-19 pandemic will require a strategy to draw and retain more talent, as well as “anchor companies” to help ensure long-term successes in the industry, according to the president and CEO of BioTalent Canada. “The problem is you have a lot of bricks and mortar being invested in, and a lot of infrastructure being invested in, with no mandate for talent,” said Rob Henderson.
has no mandate to preferentially support the Canadian life sciences industry, Henderson said. “I think needs to take a more holistic approach. I think their job is also to position Canada as a leader around the world for this so that we can attract not only the investment, but also the talent that we require to foster these companies,” he said.