Discovery Park’s Chairman Dr. Martino Picardo Retires

Discovery Park is announcing the retirement of Dr. Martino Picardo, esteemed Chairman.

During his seven-year tenure at Discovery Park, Martino’s leadership drove transformative growth, with the Kent science and tech hub recognised as a Life Sciences Opportunity Zone and home to over 180 companies. Over a career spanning more than 30 years, Martino has continually championed the potential of the life sciences sector and the importance of building an environment for innovation to flourish.

As Chairman, Martino played a key role in strengthening Discovery Park’s position as a leading destination for science-led companies. Prior to joining, he was the first CEO of Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, an ambitious initiative focused on accelerating innovation through a dedicated incubator and accelerator. Holding a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and with decades of leadership and non-executive experience, Martino is widely regarded as a leading figure in life sciences business incubation and science park development.

Martino has worked hard to elevate STEM on academic agendas and create meaningful pathways for future talent. From championing skills development to advocating for female founders and mentoring emerging leaders through our investment fund, Discovery Park Ventures (DPV), he has remained committed to building a stronger, more inclusive innovation ecosystem. He also served as Director of DPV, supporting and guiding companies such as VisusNano and BoobyBiome, and will continue as Chairman of two DPV-backed businesses, Vox Imaging and RS & RS Scientific, until his planned retirement at the end of the year.

Mayer Schreiber, CEO of Discovery Park, said: “Martino has an unparalleled vision for building top-class innovation ecosystems and an incredible knowledge of the life science sector. His leadership has been immensely valuable to Discovery Park and I am deeply grateful for his years of dedicated service. We wish him a fulfilling retirement and all the best for the future.”

Martino Picardo, Retiring Chairman of Discovery Park and Director of Discovery Park Ventures: “My time at Discovery Park, and indeed throughout my career in life sciences, has been incredibly rewarding. Witnessing the translation of groundbreaking science into tangible benefits for patients has always been a driving force.

“Seeing Discovery Park grow from a transitioning site into a dynamic community has been a privilege and I’m excited to watch as the next generation of life science entrepreneurs take the reins and continue to drive change. In my retirement, I am looking forward to travelling and spending time with my family.”

Martino formally stepped down as Chairman of Discovery Park on 1st April 2025, leaving behind a legacy that has helped define what Discovery Park is today.

Recruitment Partner / Resourcer

Position: Recruitment Partner / Resourcer
Location: Discovery Park, Sandwich, Kent (Hybrid Working Available)
Role: Permanent
Salary: Negotiable with Excellent Commission Scheme (including shares)
Hours: Monday Thursday, 9:00am 5:30pm; Friday, 9:00am 5:00pm

 

For more information and to apply

 

Join Our Growing Team at RGH-Global!

At RGH-Global, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional recruitment solutions, connecting top-tier talent with opportunities across a variety of sectors. Our established office at Discovery Park, Sandwich, is thriving, with a strong focus on recruiting Health and Social Care professionals, including Allied Healthcare roles such as Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Behaviour Practitioners, and more.

Due to increased demand and internal growth, were excited to expand our team and are looking for a passionate Recruitment Partner / Resourcer to join us!

What Were Looking For

Were seeking a driven individual with a spark for success. Ideally, you’ll bring:

  • Previous experience in recruitment, sales, or customer-focused roles OR a background in Health and Social Care with a desire to transition into a recruitment-focused role.
  • A passion for building relationships and delivering outstanding service to clients and candidates.
  • Strong communication skills and a proactive, can-do attitude.
  • The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Don’t have recruitment experience? No problem! Were open to training the right candidate who demonstrates enthusiasm and transferable skills. Whether you’re new to recruitment or a seasoned professional, you’ll receive full training and ongoing support from our experienced management team.

What You’ll Do

This is a dynamic, 360-degree recruitment role where you’ll:

  • Build and manage your own client portfolio, developing lasting relationships with businesses in the Health and Social Care sector.
  • Source, engage, and place high-calibre candidates into rewarding roles.
  • Leverage cutting-edge recruitment tools and software to streamline your work.
  • Collaborate with a supportive team to drive success and share in the company’s growth.

Why Choose RGH-Global?

  • Competitive Salary & Rewards: Negotiable salary with an industry-leading commission scheme, including shares to truly share in our success.
  • Work-Life Balance: Monday to Friday hours with an early finish on Fridays, plus hybrid working options to suit your lifestyle.
  • Perks: Free membership to the onsite gym at Discovery Park upon completion of probation.
  • Supportive Culture: Join a collaborative, inclusive team where your contributions are valued, and your career can flourish.
  • Career Growth: Access to comprehensive training and development, whether you’re starting out or looking to take your recruitment career to the next level.

About RGH-Global

RGH-Global is a trusted recruitment partner, providing bespoke solutions across diverse industries worldwide. As an approved Crown Commercial Service Supplier, we deliver Search, Professional Recruitment, Large-Scale Deployment, and Advisory services. Our Discovery Park office is at the heart of our Health and Social Care recruitment division, and were excited to welcome new talent to help us continue our growth.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re passionate about recruitment, sales, or Health and Social Care and want to join a forward-thinking company with a unique approach to rewarding success, wed love to hear from you!

For more information or to apply, please contact Stuart Kingsnorth (Partner & Business Development Team Leader) at stuart.kingsnorth@rgh-global.com or call 07850 865805.

RGH-Global Where Passion Meets Opportunity.

Rediscovery Charity Fashion Show

📅 Thursday June 26th ⏰ Doors open 17:00 PM 📍 The Gateway Building , Innovation House

Get ready for the Fashion Show event on June 26, 2025 at 17:00 PM! £6.00 per ticket and payment on the door. This also includes a drink.

Come join us for a fabulous evening of style and glamour at our Fashion Show! Witness the latest pre-loved trends strut down the runway. Get inspired by the creativity and innovation. Don’t miss out on this exciting event showcasing the best of the pre loved fashion event. Payment on the door and we accept card and cash. See you there!

Register online

The International Festival of Neuroscience

Celebrate and share the latest thinking in global neuroscience with the British Neuroscience Association.

The International Festival of Neuroscience: BNA2025 is taking place in Liverpool, 27-30 April 2025. This multi-organisation, three-day forum brings together all those with an interest in brain research at a single shared event. From fundamental neuroscience in both academic and commercial sectors, to clinical expertise and patient perspectives in neurology, psychology and psychiatry – BNA2025 has it all.

Exclusive Registration Offers for SMEs and Biotechs at BNA2025
To support the SME community, the British Neuroscience Association (BNA) in partnership with UK Gov, are offering reduced ‘BNA member rates’ to SMEs and biotechs.

To use this offer –

Register as a ‘Full/industry non-member’ and use code BNA2025_SME to save over £100.

Why attend BNA2025?

  1. Over 200 scientific presentations
  2. The latest research across academia, industry and the clinic
  3. Bench to bedside perspectives
  4. Vibrant social programme
  5. Dedicated careers zone
  6. Public engagement activities
  7. International community of delegates

Visit the BNA2025 website for full details of the programme and to register.