Wednesday Thursday Friday
 

Agenda subject to update before Conference Dates

For the most current version of the Conference Agenda, please refer to the Conference App.
5:30 - 9:30 pm San Diego Padres vs Miami Marlins, Petco Park, Game time 6:40 pm
 
7:30 - 9:00 am BREAKFAST
9:00 - 9:10 am Welcome | Day One Introductions and Announcements
  2025 Conference Co-Chairs Brandi Roberts, Former Chief Financial Officer, Longboard Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Mike Mayberry, Vice President, Finance, Contineum Therapeutics, Inc.
9:10 - 10:00 am Q& A SESSION: Drew Brees
    Moderated Q&A Session with Drew Brees, former NFL Quarterback for the New Orleans Saints and San Diego Chargers, 2009 Super Bowl MVP and cofounder of the Brees Dream Foundation.
Solomon Wilcots, Professional Sports Broadcaster and NFL Analyst, Team Leader, Sports Health Alliance, Moderator
10:00 - 10:10 am Break
10:10 - 11:00 am Enhance Your Career/Job Breakout Sessions: Select One
  Choice A. The Power of AI: Driving Innovation Across Finance and Corporate Operations
    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the way companies approach financial decision-making, risk management, and operational efficiency. In this session, The Power of AI: Driving Innovation Across Finance and Corporate Operations, industry leaders and AI experts will discuss how organizations can leverage AI tools to enhance accuracy, speed, and strategic insights across finance and other corporate functions. This session will uncover the latest AI applications, trends, and challenges, offering participants a roadmap to integrate AI solutions that create measurable value.
Claire Bender, Regional Vice President, Southwest, Coupa
Rob Callopy, IT Business Systems Leader | Machine Learning Enthusiast | Pharma & MedTech Professional
Haiyang Hu, Sr. Director of Finance, Addition Therapeutics
John Lamoureux, Executive Director, Head of IT, Iambic Therapeutics
  Choice B. Investor Relations Excellence: Communicating Value, Tracking Competition and Strengthening Connections
   

In today’s fast-paced and competitive market, effective investor relations (IR) is more than just reporting financials—it's about telling a compelling story that conveys value, building trust with investors, and staying ahead of the competition. This session, Investor Relations Excellence: Communicating Value, Tracking Competition, and Strengthening Connections, will provide actionable strategies and insights on how to craft a clear, consistent narrative that resonates with investors, monitor competitive dynamics, and foster strong, ongoing relationships with key stakeholders.
Jennifer L. Porter, Partner, Goodwin
David Schull, President, Russo Partners
Megan Knight, Former VP Investor Relations, Longboard Pharmaceuticals
Ryan Lake, CFO, Lifecore Biomedical
11:00 - 11:20 am Break
11:20 - 12:15 pm PRESENTATION: M&A Success Stories
    For biotech companies, being acquired can be a defining moment in their journey—offering access to new resources, expanded markets, and the potential for accelerated growth. However, the process of being acquired is complex and requires careful preparation, strategic alignment, and negotiation. In this session, Biotech M&A Success Stories: What It Takes for Companies to Get Acquired, we’ll explore the key actions and strategies that biotech companies can take to position themselves for successful acquisition. Drawing from real-world case studies, panelists will share insights on what it takes to attract the right buyer, navigate the due diligence process, and ensure a successful post-acquisition transition.
Nicholas M. Tait, AU, Principal, Marsh McLennan
Brandi Roberts, Former CFO, Longboard Pharmaceuticals
Paul Rickey, Former CFO, Alpine Immune
Arvind Kush, CFO and CBO, Candid Therapeutics
Laurie Stelzer, CFO, Kailera
12:15 - 1:15 pm Lunch and Networking
1:20 - 2:20 pm Cybersecurity: Navigating Emerging Threats, Effective Mitigation Strategies, and Best Practices for Insurance Management
    In this session, we will explore the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats and provide actionable insights on how organizations can proactively safeguard against them. We will highlight the latest trends observed from threat actors and share practical techniques that businesses can implement to prevent incidents and minimize their impact when they occur.
  Additionally, we’ll delve into best practices for managing relationships with insurance carriers before and during a cyber incident. Attendees will gain valuable guidance on how to engage with their insurance partners to enhance pre-incident preparedness and optimize recovery efforts in the aftermath of a breach.
  Join us for a comprehensive discussion on strengthening your cybersecurity position and ensuring resilience in the face of growing threats.
Aaron Simpson, Senior Vice President, Life Science Group, Philadelphia Practice Leader, AON
Shruti Engstrom, Senior Vice President, Cybersecurity, AON
Allan T. Vogel, Cyber Security Consulting Leader, AON
Anjeanette Bowman, Sr. Director & Controller, Longboard Pharmaceuticals
Betsy Gelfand, SVP, Finance, Endeavor Biomedicines
2:20 - 3:20 pm Navigating Capital Needs: Fundraising and Cash Flow Management
    For life science companies, securing the right capital at the right time is critical to driving innovation, advancing research, and achieving long-term growth. However, balancing fundraising efforts with managing cash flow can be a challenging task, particularly in an industry where development timelines are lengthy, and regulatory hurdles are high. In "Navigating Capital Needs: Fundraising and Cash Flow Management," industry experts will provide actionable insights into how life science companies can successfully raise capital while maintaining a healthy cash runway. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of fundraising strategies, financial forecasting, and the best practices for managing cash flow in a way that allows companies to stay focused on their scientific and business objectives without compromising financial stability.
Anthony Yu, Managing Director, Healthcare Investment Banking, Bank of America
Martyn Webster, CFO, Cerapedics
Brendan Singleton, Managing Director, Healthcare Equity Capital Markets for BofA Securities
Steve Przesmicki, Partner, Cooley
David Tucker, Sr. Vice President, BlueJay Therapeutics
3:20 - 3:40 pm Break
3:40 - 4:30 pm Enhance Your Company/Job Breakout Sessions, Select One
  Choice A. SOX 404a vs. 404b - How to Build Robust & Efficient Internal Control Systems
    In the world of corporate finance and governance, understanding the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), particularly Sections 404(a) and 404(b), is crucial for ensuring effective internal control over financial reporting (ICFR). This panel, SOX 404a vs 404b - Planning and Best Practices, will bring together experts in finance, audit, and compliance to examine the differences between 404(a) and 404(b), discuss compliance strategies, and share best practices for building robust and efficient internal control systems.
Michael Formolo, Partner, Ernst & Young LLP
Vickie Capps, Director & Advisor
Phil Howard, Partner, Ernst & Young, LLP
Alex Azoy, Chief Accounting Officer, Arcus Biosciences
Nam Doan, Former Sr. Director/Head of IT, Third Harmonic Bio
  Choice B. IT Roadmap: What pathway Do You Take to Roll Out Software and Connect Tools Companywide?
    Deploying software across an organization and connecting various tools into a unified system are critical steps in an enterprise IT roadmap. This panel, IT Roadmap - Company-wide: What Pathway Do You Take to Roll Out Software and Connect Tools, will bring together IT leaders, project managers, and system integration experts to discuss proven strategies for creating a structured, phased rollout that supports scalability, minimizes disruption, and aligns with business objectives.
Jennifer Kyle, Founder and CEO, Condor Software
Phil Adams, Vice President, Information Technology, Longboard Pharmaceuticals
James Neal, Principal, Enterprise Business Applications, BDO
Maria Dobek, Vice President, Accounting, Janux Therapeutics
4:35 - 4:45 pm Announcements, Closing Remarks
4:45 - 6:00 pm Break
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm Evening Social Event - Dinner, drinks and games at Moonshine Flats

7:30 - 9:00 am BREAKFAST
9:00 - 9:10 am Welcome | Day Two Introductions and Announcements
9:10 - 10:00 am KEYNOTE PRESENTATION: Joe Quinlan - What in the World is Going On?
    Joe’s presentation will highlight key drivers of growth, critical secular trends, and the potential risks to growth and earnings in the medium-term. Key global trends affecting the US economy and capital markets will also be examined. Attendees can ask questions during a moderated Q&A at the end.
10:00 - 10:50 am Enhance Your Career Breakout Sessions: Select One
  Choice A. Mastering Personal Branding: Networking, LinkedIn, and Career Growth Strategies
    In today’s competitive job market, establishing a compelling personal brand is essential for career advancement, professional credibility, and meaningful networking. This panel, Mastering Personal Branding: Networking, LinkedIn, and Career Growth Strategies, brings together industry leaders, career coaches, and LinkedIn experts to provide actionable insights on building and sustaining a powerful personal brand. Panelists will explore how professionals can use LinkedIn strategically to boost visibility, leverage connections, and unlock new career opportunities.
Fleming Jones, Managing Partner, Life Sciences, Fleming/Martin
Kurt Landon, Chief Talent Office, LEAD3R
Tom Marchand, Senior Partner, Proven Recruiting
Mia Sandvoll, West Coast Business Development Leader, The Leadership Edge
  Choice B. How to Build Strong & Effective Relationships with Board Members
    The panel discussion will focus on the essential strategies for building a strong and effective relationship between executives and their Board of Directors (BOD). Panelists, including seasoned board members and C-suite leaders, will share best practices for managing board expectations and fostering productive communication. The conversation will cover key topics such as aligning board and executive goals, setting realistic performance metrics, and ensuring transparency in decision-making. Attendees will learn how to proactively address potential areas of tension, such as differing views on strategy, risk tolerance, and corporate governance, while maintaining a collaborative and supportive relationship with the board. Additionally, the panel will explore how executives can effectively engage with boards on critical matters, from financial performance to long-term strategic initiatives, to ensure alignment and drive organizational success.
Jon Freve, CFO, Alentis Therapeutics
Robert Hoffman, President and CEO, Kintara Therapeutics
Phil Schneider, Board Member, Longboard Pharmaceuticals, Pfenex, Arena Pharmaceuticals, Auspex Pharmaceuticals, Gen-Probe, San Diego County YMCA
Brian Culley, CEO, Lineage Cell Therapeutics
10:50 - 11:15 am Break
11:15 - 12:15 pm Life Science Cares Presentation: Alicia Quinn Kitagawa, Executive Director, Life Science Cares, San Diego
   

Life Science Cares is a collective initiative by San Diego’s life sciences community aimed at alleviating poverty by supporting local organizations that focus on survival, education, and sustainability. Alicia Quinn Kitagawa, Executive Director of Life Science Cares San Diego, will kick off the event with an engaging discussion on how the life sciences sector partners with non-profits to address these critical social issues. Following the discussion, attendees will participate in a teambuilding activity where they will assemble STEM kits for local students.

This hands-on activity will highlight the real-world application of STEM education initiatives, giving participants the opportunity to make a tangible impact on students' lives. Attendees will also engage in valuable networking opportunities, exchanging ideas and perspectives on how to better support STEM education in their communities. The session will emphasize the importance of collaboration and social responsibility in professional development, while also helping participants strengthen their teamwork and communication skills. Together, they will contribute to a meaningful cause and gain insights into how corporate involvement can drive positive change in education.
12:15 - 1:00 pm Lunch and Networking
1:00 - 2:00 pm KEYNOTE PRESENTATION: John "Gucci" Foley
    As Lead Solo of the Blue Angels and his research on what makes an elite performer strive for more, John Foley has leveraged speed, execution, and world class expertise to share his high-energy message as a world expert on team performance. His message is simple enough that each of us can implement it personally and professionally, yet so profound that it can change our lives and our company if we choose to embrace it. And it all starts with gratitude. John is here to share The Glad To Be Here® Mindset—his secret sauce to living a life of gratitude, purpose, passion, and presence.
2:00 - 2:20 pm Break/Meet & Greet John "Gucci" Foley
2:20 - 3:10 pm Capital Allocation Strategy - Risk vs. Reward
    In the biotech industry, executives face a delicate balancing act when allocating capital: investing in high-risk, high-reward opportunities while ensuring financial sustainability and long-term growth. With innovation and clinical development at the heart of biotech, understanding where to deploy resources to achieve the highest return is crucial. In this session, "Capital Allocation Strategy: Risk vs. Reward in Biotech," experts will discuss how executives can effectively manage their capital to fund promising projects, mitigate risks, and maximize returns. The panel will provide actionable insights on prioritizing investments in clinical trials, technology development, partnerships, and commercialization, and how to make data-driven decisions that align with both short-term needs and long-term strategic goals.
Erik Keener, Vice President, Finance, MediView
Eric Souza, Senior Portfolio Manager, Capital Advisors Group, Inc.
Justin Thacker, CFO, Capstan Therapeutics
Thomas Jackson, Managing Director, Merrill Lynch
Jennifer Benoit, Executive Director and Corporate Controller, Halozyme
   
3:10 - 4:10 pm Enhance Your Career Breakout Sessions: Select One
  Choice A. How to Find BOD Positions
    The panel discussion will provide executives with practical guidance on navigating the path to securing a seat on a corporate board. The conversation will cover key strategies for building a strong board-ready profile, including the development of relevant expertise, personal branding, and networking within industry and governance circles. Panelists will share insights on how executives can leverage their financial acumen, strategic thinking, and leadership experience to attract the attention of nominating committees and executive search firms. Additionally, the discussion will highlight the importance of understanding board dynamics, governance best practices, and the evolving role of boards in today’s business landscape. Attendees will leave with actionable advice on how to position themselves for board opportunities, expand their professional influence, and enhance their leadership trajectory.
Steve Przesmicki, Partner, Cooley
Julie Eastland, CEO, Zentalis
Jackie Ross, Managing Director, Biopharma, Russell Reynolds Associates
Dominic Piscetelli, CFO, ORIC Pharmceuticals
Brittany Bradrick, CFO and COO, Neurelis
  Choice B. How to Be a Better Leader - Working with Different Generations
    The session will focus on effective leadership strategies for managing a multigenerational workforce. Attendees will gain insights into the unique characteristics, communication preferences, and work values of different generational cohorts, including Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z. The discussion will cover practical approaches to fostering intergenerational collaboration, addressing potential challenges such as generational biases, and creating an inclusive work environment that leverages the strengths of each generation. This session will provide actionable takeaways for leaders to enhance team cohesion, improve retention, and drive organizational success in a diverse and evolving workplace.
Killu Sanborn, Ph.D., Managing Director, Oxford Finance
Heidi Henson, Board Member
Mike Mayberry, Vice President, Finance, Contineum Therapeutics
Shannon Dulaney, Senior Auditor, Ernst & Young, LLP
Charles Huang, Associate, Oxford Finance
4:10 - 5:00 pm PANEL: IPO Success Stories
    This panel discussion will delve into the critical factors that drive successful initial public offerings (IPOs) in the biotechnology sector. Industry experts and company leaders will share firsthand accounts of their IPO journeys, discussing key challenges, strategies, and lessons learned along the way. The conversation will explore how biotech companies can effectively navigate the complexities of the IPO process, from securing investor interest to managing regulatory hurdles and positioning for long-term growth. In addition, the panel will look forward to the evolving biotech landscape, highlighting emerging trends, opportunities, and potential risks in a rapidly changing market. Attendees will gain valuable insights into what makes an IPO successful in biotech, as well as how companies can prepare for future public offerings amidst an increasingly competitive and dynamic environment.
Mason Matthies, Managing Director, Donnelley Financial Solutions
Dan Chevallard, CFO, LENZ Therapeutics
Anthony Yu, Managing Director, Healthcare Investment Banking, Bank of America
Brandi Roberts, Former CFO, Longboard Pharmaceuticals
Amy Bachrodt, Sr. Vice President, Maze Therapeutics
5:00 - 5:10 pm Announcements, Closing Remarks
   
  Break Before Evening Special Event
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm Evening Special Event - Dinner, drinks and fun on the USS Midway.
 
 
7:30 - 9:00 am BREAKFAST
9:00 - 9:10 am Welcome | Day Three Introductions and Announcements
  Introducing the 2026 ABFO Conference Chair
9:10 - 10:10 am Fireside Chat with Joe Kudla, Founder of Vuori - One of the fastest growing brands in the world
    Join us for an inspiring and insightful fireside chat with Joe Kudla, Founder and CEO of Vuori, a brand that has captured the world’s attention through its meteoric rise in the activewear industry. Vuori’s journey to success has been marked by bold choices, calculated risks, and a deep understanding of both the rewards and challenges that come with entrepreneurial ventures. In this session, Joe will share his journey, the mindset needed to navigate risk, and how confidence has played a crucial role in his decision-making and resilience as a leader.
10:10 - 11:00 am KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Meet and Greet with Kerri Walsh Jennings
    Kerri is one of the most decorated beach volley ball players of all time! She will inspire us with a powerful session on leadership and perseverance, followed by an exclusive meet and greet where you’ll have the chance to chat with her one-on-one and even see one of her gold medals up close!
11:00 - 11:10 am Closing Remarks
       
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