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.