Simon Tyler

Simon obtained an MA in Natural Sciences (Chemistry) from Hertford College, Oxford in 1995 and earned a PhD in 1998 after research on asymmetric synthesis in the group of Prof. Laurence M. Harwood. Then followed a two-year post-doctoral stint with Prof. Barry M. Trost at Stanford University, studying the catalysis of the Claisen rearrangement. In 2001, Simon returned to the UK to join Process R&a;D in AstraZeneca, gaining experience and understanding of the multi-disciplinary needs of drug development to lead significant process development projects ranging from candidate selection to Phase III, therein establishing a record of exploiting innovative synthetic and catalytic chemistry for the manufacture of drug candidates. After ten years in big pharma, Simon played a pivotal role as a co-founder of CatSci Ltd, negotiating the financial terms for the asset transfer and service agreement with AstraZeneca. After an initial operational role during the establishment of the new start-up, he subsequently took on commercial responsibility for the company, overseeing growth to a multi-million pound business. He currently serves as Chief Operating Officer, focused on unleashing the talents of staff across the organisation to exceed the expectations of customers. As a dynamic leader, he is committed to the development of others through vision, participation and affiliation.