Dr. Alexander Lennart Schmidt, a distinguished European scholar born in Germany and based in Amsterdam, is Professor of Technological Innovation at Hotelschool The Hague (The Netherlands). With a rich academic background, including a PhD from the VU University in Amsterdam, Dr. Schmidt specializes in disruptive business models and technological innovations within the hospitality industry.
His positions at various universities across Europe have been marked by significant contributions, particularly in understanding the intersection of digital technologies, such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and immersive technologies, with business model innovation. His research, recognized for its practical applicability, offers management tools tailored for navigating the challenges of continual industry disruption.
An advocate of cross-industry collaboration, Dr. Schmidt’s work explores the transformative impact of digital technologies, propelled by market players outside traditional industry boundaries. Dr. Schmidt identifies as an insightful innovation enthusiast, tirelessly pushing the boundaries of possibility. His interactions with students, founders, and seasoned managers have sharpened his skills in delivering personalized education and training formats. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship has inspired many innovation-makers.
Jessica (Youngji) Han has over 18 years of experience in the healthcare and clinical research industry, with strong expertise in clinical operations, project management, and regulatory strategy.
At Avance Clinical, Jessica oversees the development of a robust operational platform across Asia, integrating clinical delivery excellence, regulatory expertise, and local partnerships. Her leadership ensures that biotech sponsors can conduct high-quality, efficient, and compliant clinical trials tailored to the unique dynamics of the APAC region.
Avance Clinical has been instrumental in advancing its GlobalReady Pathway, which connects Australia’s early-phase ecosystem with Asia’s scalability — accelerating global drug development for innovative biotech companies.
Jessica’s strategic focus and operational insight position Avance Clinical as a trusted partner for biotechs seeking to leverage Asia’s diverse patient populations and world-class research infrastructure to achieve their clinical development goals efficiently.
Mike Goglia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Stockton University in Pomona, NJ. Mike has over 16 years of experience at Elkem Silicones including 10 years in sales and 6 years as a member of the Healthcare management team. During this time Mike has developed robust expertise across diverse markets, with a particular focus on managing business operations related to biocompatible materials for medical devices and pharmaceutical applications.
Danaya Pratchayanan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Chemistry (Chulalongkorn University), along with Master’s degrees in Material Science & Engineering (University of Rochester) and Masters in Business Administration (University of South Carolina). She has been with Elkem for 9 years as a Technical Service Representative with the first 5 years concentrating on silicone applications across the automotive, electronics, EV, home appliance, and aerospace sectors. In the last four years, Danaya has transitioned to apply her knowledge in the healthcare field, focusing on innovative silicone solutions for medical devices, drug delivery systems, and conductive materials.
Ines Ashton is the Digital and AI Strategy Director at The Compleat Food Group, leading the company’s digital transformation across manufacturing, data, and AI. With over 15 years of experience spanning banking, publishing, oil, pharmaceuticals, and FMCG, she has previously driven large-scale analytics and AI programmes at Shell and Mars Inc. Ines is passionate about using data and technology to build smarter, more resilient businesses — and brings a people-first, practical approach to digital change. Outside of work, she’s an animal lover with two dogs, three cats, and a lively fishpond.
