Philipp is a seasoned executive search leader with deep knowledge and expertise in the global life sciences sector. Over the past 25 years, he has partnered with small-cap, VC-/PE-backed and privately financed firms, as well as large publicly listed companies across Europe, the U.S., and APAC. He has led successful searches for a full spectrum of C-Suite and board leaders, cultivating a broad investor network.

Professional Focus

  • 25 years’ experience in executive search with major international search firms and boutiques
  • Strong track record of Chair/Board and C-Suite searches, including CSO, CMO, CTO, CBO, CFO, COO, and CEO for private and public companies across Europe, the U.S., and APAC
  • Specialisation in life sciences, with particular emphasis on biotech, pharma, medtech, and digital health
  • Partners with clients ranging from early-stage small-cap, VC-/PE-backed, and privately financed companies to large publicly listed organizations
  • Strong network amongst life science investors, including VCs, corporate VCs, family offices, and crossover investors
  • Regular speaker and attendee at key industry conferences such as SACHS, Bio€quity, JPM, BIO,  Swiss Biotech Days, BioCapital, and others
  • Native German speaker, fluent in English

Business Expertise

  • Client Partner, reporting to the COO at a global executive search and leadership development firm specialising in life sciences, health, and technology; focused on C-Suite, board, and senior-level searches within the global life sciences sector
  • Senior Client Partner, reporting to the Board Chair at a leading European executive search firm; developed and grew life sciences and industrial sector practices
  • Partner, Engagement Leader, reporting to the Board Chair at a global executive search firm; specialised in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and technology; co-founded and grew Zurich office; executed merger and led post-merger integration; other roles included General Manager, Board of Directors, and European Representative, Global Marketing Committee
  • Managing Consultant, reporting to Group CEO at a management consulting firm focused on executive search; promoted from Senior Consultant and Consultant roles
  • Started career in project management at Swissair, later Swiss Air Transportation Ltd., with roles based in Zurich, Dublin, and Brussels

Additional Expertise

  • Healthcare & Life Sciences
  • Biopharma
  • Medtech
  • Digital Health
  • Healthcare Technology
  • Private Equity & Venture Capital
  • Industrial

Education & Certifications

  • Bachelor’s degree (B.BA) with emphasis on marketing and human resources from University of Applied Sciences, Zurich; Thesis: Benchmarking of Modern Management Development Tools
  • Extensive training and coursework in international search methodology, sourcing international candidates, project management, and other relevant areas

Contact Philipp Buis today and let's get started

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