Interview with Swapan Bhattacharya
Before we begin, tell us about yourself?
I am the co-founder and managing director of our company, TCG Lifesciences, since its inception in 2001. I am responsible for the executive leadership and overall management of the company. I have been a core member of the Chatterjee Group, A New York based private equity fund since 1995 and have spearheaded the group’s investments in India. Prior to joining TCGLS, I had held positions with PaineWebber Inc. as Senior Vice President; and Consultant with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission. I have served as the Ex-Co-Chairman of the biotechnology committee of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry ("FICCI") and I have held various committee positions in US India Business Council, CII and AMCHAM.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in technology from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, a Master of Sciences from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, U.S.A and a degree in Master of Business Administration from Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University, U.S.A.
How has your extensive experience in both national and international organizations shaped your leadership approach at TCG Lifesciences?
My experience in start-ups and leadership roles in various international and national organizations in the field of science and research has provided me with valuable insights into both domestic and global markets. It has taught me the importance of sustainable strategic thinking, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the operating environment. I have learnt to balance short-term deliverables with long-term vision, while building strong teams capable of driving innovation. These experiences have been instrumental in effectively bridging the gap between basic research and its real-world impact, both domestically and globally, at TCG Lifesciences. I have brought a global perspective to navigate diverse cultures, regulations, geopolitical challenges and societal needs.
What were the significant challenges and opportunities you encountered while spearheading TCG’s foray into life sciences in 1998?
TCG Lifesciences faced significant challenges upon entering the life sciences market, including intense competition from already established players, the need to build credibility and trust, navigating complex regulatory environments, and attracting and retaining top scientific talent.
TCG Lifesciences capitalized on the growing trend of outsourcing R&D in the late 1990s by offering specialized research services, forming strategic partnerships, and leveraging advancements in drug discovery technology. TCG Lifesciences (“TCGLS”) leveraged the positional advantage in Kolkata and Pune to access the rich talent pool in these geographies. By training and nurturing the raw talent became an asset for the growth of the industry. The company's expansion into global markets further solidified its position in the industry.
Through strategic planning, investing heavily in platform technologies, proactively delivering market needs, forming critical partnerships and setting up a US subsidiary in the world’s biggest pharma market, TCGLS positioned itself as a prominent player in the life sciences sector globally.
As a member of various committees, including the US India Business Council and FICCI, how do you leverage these roles to influence and drive growth in the life sciences and biotechnology industries?
Through these associations and platforms, I have had the opportunity of shaping the industry’s trajectory through strategic leadership, policy advocacy and collaborative industry participation. At the US India Business Council, I assisted in creating cross-border cooperation and partnerships at both the company and industry level, ushering in best practices, talent exchange and cross-cultural traits. It has also enabled fostering international collaborations and promoting favourable policies for the life sciences industry in India, which in return helped in driving innovation and fuelling the growth and development of the Indian life sciences ecosystem.
As a sponsor of the 24th Drug Discovery Innovation Programme, what specific goals does TCG Lifesciences aim to achieve during the event, and how do you plan to leverage this platform to enhance your contributions to the field of drug discovery?
TCG Lifesciences is strategically leveraging its Gold Sponsorship at the 24th Drug Discovery Innovation Programme to solidify its position as a leading contract research organization. By highlighting its extensive expertise in drug discovery and development, the company aims to reinforce its reputation for delivering innovative solutions. We shall channelise the various marketing channels and platform provided by the organiser as a valuable opportunity to expand strategic partnerships with key industry stakeholders, including pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, as well as academic institutions. Furthermore, TCGLS intends to present its latest technological advancements and engage with industry thought leaders to stay at the forefront of drug discovery trends. To maximize the impact of our participation, we will focus on enhancing brand visibility and strengthening client relationships. By actively participating in the programme's sessions and discussions, TCGLS seeks to contribute to the collective knowledge base of the industry while gaining valuable insights that can be applied to future projects. The company's strategic goal for the event aligns with its broader vision of driving business growth and maintaining its leadership position in the life sciences sector.