Darja Nelson
Operating Partner, Bridgewest Ventures
General Manager, Bioeconomy Science Institute
Dr Florian Graichen is a global leader in sustainable innovation and General Manager for biomanufacturing and biotechnology portfolios at the Bioeconomy Science Institute – one of New Zealand’s largest science organisations accelerating the transition to a high-value, climate-resilient bioeconomy.
He leads portfolios that advance circular manufacturing, biorefineries, and bio-based products, turning renewable resources into scalable solutions for packaging, energy, and advanced materials. At the Bioeconomy Science Institute, which brings together 2,000+ researchers across agriculture, aquaculture, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and environmental science, Florian champions cross-sector collaboration, translating science into real-world impact. He advises government ministries, serves on multiple industry boards, and is an Honorary Professor at the University of Waikato.
Operating Partner, Bridgewest Ventures
Director of Science and Innovation, BioSouth
Chief Innovation Expertise Officer, Callaghan Innovation
Executive Director, Healthcare, Research at E&P Financial Group