OP Matthew Durdy (79-84) recently took part in an online Pock Connects talk with two Upper Sixth biology students from Pocklington School. During the session held on Teams, Matthew shared insights about his career journey, with a particular emphasis on his work with the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult where he is Chief Executive.

Founded in 2012, the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult is an independent innovation and technology organisation specialising in the advancement of cell and gene therapies, the topic of a Medical Society research project the students undertook at school. 

During the discussion, Matthew emphasised the importance of being curious and asking challenging questions. He highlighted how these traits, along with his determination to find solutions and get things done, had been a driving force in his professional life.

The students' preparation was evident through their extensive research into the subject. They posed several probing and relevant questions about cell and gene therapies as well as the wider biotech industry to help clarify and broaden their knowledge and understanding.

Matthew commented: “Giving back to super smart and well-prepared young people at the start of their careers while talking about yourself and a subject you love is not a commitment, it is a pleasure. I hope I have recruited at least one to the cause!”

Thank you to Matthew for taking time out of his busy schedule to speak to the students. If other OPs would be interested in offering to speak about their own career journey or industry sector as part of the Pock Connects programme, please let the OP office know.

Bio info:

Matthew is Chief Executive of the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult and was part of the founding team in 2012. Before 2020, he was Chief Business Officer and was responsible for strategy, communications, marketing, and business development. He is credited with leading the design and implementation of the commercial model for the highly successful Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult manufacturing centre and being a global champion for the early integration of healthcare economics and reimbursement expertise into decision-making and clinical product design.

He began his career in international investment banking and venture capital and has successfully invested in and managed a number of biotechnology SMEs and regional operations of multinational organisations. He has an MA from the University of Oxford in Pure and Applied Biology, an MBA from the University of Chicago, and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment. He is also vice-chair of the Board of Trustees of the charity Parkinson’s UK.

Pock Connects:

Pock Connects is the official network for members of the Pocklington School community including Old Pocklingtonians (OPs), current and former parents, governors, life patrons, staff, and supporters all keen to share their knowledge and expertise to support current students and each other at any stage in their career. For more information or to join the Pock Connects network scan the QR code below or contact the OP office.