15 March 2012 | Influencers | By BioSpectrum Bureau
"It has been Dr Silviu Itescu's extraordinary vision and intellectual rigor that has underpinned Mesoblast's resounding progress to date. He was determined to seek out and bring to the market, powerful regenerative therapeutics that bring paradigm shift. All the achievement of Mesoblast is attributed to Dr Itescu's unwavering commitment to build a solid future for the company. He applies his strategic business mind to deliver value to shareholders and is also a natural communicator. He tells the Mesoblast story with great passion and clarity. We at the board of directors of Mesoblast are very fortunate to have a person like Dr Itescu as our leader."
Mr Brian Jamieson, chairman, Mesoblast
"Dr Silviu Itescu's scientific, medical and business acumen have allowed Mesoblast to translate bench-side laboratory findings into clinical realities. He has provided the motivation for his team to accomplish goals faster than ever envisioned. He has created a company that has redefined success and is transforming the mode of treatment for diseases once thought incurable. His leadership skills can be summarized through his passion, excitement and sense of purpose shown on a daily basis, resulting in everyone wanting to work even harder to accomplish the company's goals."
Mr Michael Schuster, Sr vice president-US operations
"Dr Itescu brings a unique set of skills to the biotech sector. He has the strength of having a strong scientific leadership quality and a finely-honed strategic business acumen. He is driven by his passionate commitment to both science and clinical applications of cell-based therapies, and by the need to build a sustainable business model to deliver long-term benefits to his shareholders. That blend of skills has enabled him to build from scratch, the leading global stem cell company. Dr Itescu's relentless energy inspires his growing and highly-motivated team that shares his vision and passion."
Mr Graeme Kaufman, Sr vice president-finance & corporate strategy