Live at ATE Europe: Strategy Meets Science
At Advanced Therapies Europe 2025, Mayra will help guide attendees through a packed agenda that bridges science, investment and commercialisation. “This year’s agenda is very complete,” she says, highlighting the Investor Summit and Women in Advanced Therapies Congress on Day 1, followed by a blend of scientific sessions, funding discussions and go-to-market strategy panels across Days 2 and 3.
“It’s a complete menu for the CGT community,” she adds, “and very complementary to the scientific summits taking place later this year.” Attendees can expect rich, diverse and candid discussions with one goal in mind: “Bring CGTs successfully to the patients as soon as possible.”
Mayra is also looking forward to the connections and collaboration that happen beyond the sessions. “As I move from big pharma to the biotech world, there is so much we can learn and benefit from on both sides. I really look forward to exploring this side of the discussion and having some ‘a-ha’ moments during these exchanges.”
From Finance to Frontline: A Strategic Pivot with Purpose
Mayra’s career path hasn’t followed the conventional R&D trajectory. “With a BA in Business Administration and an EMBA in business strategy, I developed a successful career in Finance in big pharma. But later I pivoted to commercial strategy roles, where I could be closer to the patients and make a greater impact.”
That turning point came when Johnson & Johnson partnered with Legend Biotech to launch its first CAR-T therapy. “CGT got my heart since the early days,” she says, “and led me to my most recent role – preparing the European markets for the launch of J&J’s first gene therapy.”
The challenge of bringing these therapies to market is what continues to drive her. “The challenges and possibilities have given me a lot of energy and purpose that go way beyond just work.”
What Comes Next for Advanced Therapies
Despite progress in recent years, Mayra believes much of the work still lies ahead. “Only 20% of eligible patients today can benefit from advanced therapies,” she says. While new modalities are emerging, she’s particularly focused on strengthening the underlying systems that enable patient access.
“I’m especially looking forward to seeing fields like supply chain, regulatory and market access become more mature. These have long been barriers to delivery, but with the learnings from the first wave of CGT launches, I’m optimistic that change is coming.”
Defining Moments and Lasting Impact
One moment stands out above the rest. “I’ll never forget the confirmation that J&J’s very first cell therapy patient in Europe had been successfully treated. That moment got imprinted in my mind and gave me the biggest sense of accomplishment as a leader and team member.”
It was the culmination of years of work and a powerful reminder of the mission. “Every move – new country or role – has shaped me,” she says. “But nothing compares to the day I decided to leave Finance and dive into the heart of pharma. It felt like a leap of faith, yet looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Advice for Future Leaders
For those stepping into the CGT field today, Mayra offers pragmatic guidance. “Understand the landscape, meet the right people and think early and strategically about your TPP – how will this become a successful therapy that reaches patients?”
Progress in science is essential, she adds, but it's not enough. “We also need to think ahead about how the route to the patient will look, and how we’ll bring these therapies from bench to bedside.”
A Personal Note
Asked what three things she’d take to a desert island, Mayra offers two answers:
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Practical: A Swiss knife, potable water and a blanket
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Emotional: A family picture, a teddy bear and her rings – each representing someone important in her life
Mayra Battilani Becegato brings strategic clarity, real-world launch experience and a deep commitment to patient access to the stage at Advanced Therapies Europe 2025. Her insights span both big pharma and emerging biotech, offering attendees a unique lens into how advanced therapies can reach patients faster and more effectively. Whether you're refining a go-to-market strategy or planning your first clinical launch, Mayra’s session will deliver actionable insight with purpose. Join us in Barcelona and be part of the movement.
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