Carola Schropp “co-invented” the concept of partnering –of pre-arranging meetings among companies with overlapping interests. Carola believes in the Power of Partnering. Face-to-face meetings go beyond the topic at hand. People sit across from each other and inspire each other. Often, they get new ideas. Often, they connect. As the Founder of EBD Group, she is widely recognized as one of the original proponents of our global and interconnected bio-economy. She built EBD Group into the undisputed market leader among stand-alone partnering companies. In 2013, EBD Group was acquired by Informa PLC. In 2015, she relocated to Puerto Rico to affect local efforts supporting innovation on the island. She and her international team conducted several major projects in biotech/parma economic development as well as bioeconomy. Carola holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) and an MTS degree, both from Emory University, Atlanta, GA

Kari (MBA, Marketing & Change Management) has over 20 years experience in the event industry with a special focus working with senior level executives in the life sciences industry. Kari has managed teams and worked with partner organizations across the globe including: the US, Europe, South America, and China where she led marketing and communications strategies for EBD Group’s portfolio of conferences that served the commercial side of drug development. Kari has launched new brands, propelled events into new markets, and created effective “go-to-market” strategies that span the entire event life cycle. Her expertise includes: strategic marketing, branding, persona development, digital marketing campaigns, advertising/media buying, public relations, media outreach, organizational development and amplification strategies through partnerships and sponsors.

Susanna has over 25 years of industry experience with expertise in strategic development, relationship management, revenue generation, and programming gained from working with biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and non-profit organizations. Starting as a researcher at NIH, then progressing to commercialization projects at MedImmune and Guilford Pharma before working at international organizations such as the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), Milken Institute, and EBD Group/Informa, Susanna is an innovative leader in the development and implementation of international biopharma programs. She works with cross-functional teams to build relationships and partnerships that facilitate the advancement of R&D, BD, and commercialization objectives with organizations ranging from start-ups to Fortune 100 companies to domestic and international government agencies. Susanna works closely with C-suite executives, BD professionals, patient advocates, KOL’s, investors, and other industry stakeholders. She is an advocate for diversity and equity, and leads change management programs that foster greater access, inclusion, and opportunities for underrepresented communities.