Dawn Hocevar, whose job as president and CEO of BioCT has involved working with multiple stakeholders to advance the state’s bioscience industry, plans to retire in the spring.
Hocevar announced her plans to step down in a letter dated Sept. 20.
“There is never a perfect time to leave, however, it is time for me to discover what life has in store as I begin the transition to retirement,” Hocevar said. “I will miss leading an organization with the critical mission of growing the life sciences industry in Connecticut, adding value to the healthcare system, and improving patient lives.”
The organization’s board will begin searching for a replacement, and BioCT’s current chief operating officer, Kelley Gipson, will be on the hiring committee.
Hocevar started with BioCT six years ago. Hocevar and BioCT have worked to help startup and emerging bioscience companies grow in the state, and to recruit existing companies to move here, helping to boost the state’s economy.
During her tenure, she has worked to help the bioscience industry overcome its long-time lack of adequate laboratory space. A new bioscience tower is currently under construction at 101 College St. in New Haven, for example. BioCT has an incubator with lab and office space, Innovation Commons in Groton.
Hocevar was a contributing author in the development of the state’s 10-year strategic plan to guide investment in the state’s bioscience industry.
According to Hocevar, when she started, 80% of BioCT’s members were startups. Today, it is 60% startups; 10% growth companies; 15% large pharma including Pfizer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Alexion/AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly, Sanofi and Medtronic; and 15% service providers. Hocevar attributed the organization’s membership growth to staff efforts.
Today, BioCT represents the state in national discussions and legislative conversations on bioscience, Hocevar noted.
“I have enjoyed my time at BioCT and am extremely proud of the work we’ve done together,” she said.
Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.
