Didier Geneau provides a fascinating insight into the French biotech scene; its strengths but also weaknesses. France has an incredible track-record of excellence in innovation and, for the first time in a long time, true government backing. All the ingredients are there to excel even further in biotech innovation. Now, let’s see…   What role does France Biotech play within the French healthcare and life sciences sector, and why did you accept the role of Delegate General given you are not from the biotech industry? The mission of France Biotech is to make our members more well known among the public, the government and the media. It is our goal to let the French society know about the innovative activity that takes place in their backyard. While the term “lobbyist” has a negative connotation to it, especially here in France, it is essentially our core function; we look to gain influence over the government and French society on behalf of our members. I prefer to think of our body, though, as “interlocutors.” While we do seek to exert influence, we mostly serve as a communication forum between the government and our healthcare innovators. As for me, I have had a bit of a peculiar path to this role. I indeed have zero former experience in healthcare innovation, but when I met Maryvonne Hiance, President of France Biotech, she was actually specifically looking for someone without any background in the biotech sector; she wanted this person to bring a new approach and way of thinking. She was searching for somebody who was good with innovation and numbers, to help the group follow a path similar to that of the digital entrepreneurs, who are seen in a very positive light here in France. Right now, biotech companies do not have the same sort of allure in French society and to investors, so we are trying to replicate the success of digital/tech startups. I also have to serve as a bit of a translator. As it is difficult for investors and the government to understand the complexities of our companies and startups, I have to break down the innovations into palatable, understandable concepts. So, I would say that 90 percent of my job is communication.   How would you compare France’s as a host to innovative startups to the rest of the world? It is true that, broadly speaking, we are seeing a revolution in biotechnology and medicine. It seems like all of the technology is coming together: the Internet of Things (IoT), AI, electronics, etc. It is all starting to come together and it’s forming some innovative products. But why is France so innovative, you may ask? I would say that it is due to our fortunate standing. We have very high-quality researchers, academic institutions and healthcare facilities. In France, we have a heritage of innovation – just look at the likes of Louis Pasteur! He is one of the first biotechnologists in the world. Pasteur set the precedent in this country, and it has led to continued success in the field. We have now great public research institutes, which is the keystone of our system. But, to be more specific, I would say that there are seven aspects that make France so innovative. The first of said aspects is our scientific base.

But why is France so innovative, you may ask? I would say that it is due to our fortunate standing. We have very high-quality researchers, academic institutions and healthcare facilities.