Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust Research and Innovation Day

“Fall in love with the problem, not the solution.”

These words resonated strongly with one of our CEO, Richard Hall as he listened to Tony Young’s keynote speech at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust Research and Innovation Day. Tony also spoke about the recently released NHS England 10-year health plan, which highlights five key areas of reform: a new operating model, enhanced transparency of quality of care, workforce transformation, innovation and technology, and financial stability.

A standout moment from the day was the impressive example of translational research through the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme. So far, 1,314 clinicians have completed the programme, resulting in 686 innovations being developed, £1.1 billion in funding raised, and 592 start-ups created.

With over 450 delegates registered, the conference hall was full to the rafters. It’s incredible to see the journey the Innovation Pop Up has been on since its inception, led by Chris Herbert and David Brettle.

This was their biggest and most ambitious conference to date, bringing together more than 70 experts from healthcare, research, academia, and industry to showcase the latest insights and ground-breaking research and innovation.

Representing Pd-m, Richard Hall was proud to be part of the day, which featured four separate sessions and five parallel themes, providing a platform to showcase R&I activity across a broader footprint: Academic, Innovation, Pathology Research, Clinical Research, and Showcasing Great Work.

There were many valuable conversations about sustainable innovation, something we are deeply passionate about at Pd-m and how we help organisations, from start-ups to multinationals, achieve impact in this space.

It was also a great opportunity to catch up with familiar faces including Richard Evans, Michael Morgan-Curran, Graeme Howling, Nathan Berry, Varaidzo (Vee) Mapunde, Roxana Dumitrache, Christopher Hepworth, Mohammed Khan, Deb Hetherington, Will Bolton, and Matt Thomas.

Sustainable Innovation Takes Centre Stage at Med-Tech Expo 2025

After two action-packed days at Med-Tech Expo 2025, we’re wrapping up with big energy, new connections, and a reaffirmed belief: sustainable innovation isn’t just being talked about — it’s being acted on.

The Pd-m team — Richard Hall, Rich Shaw, and Andrew Davidson — were out in full force across talks, judging panels, and one very busy stand. Thank you to everyone who visited us, asked questions, shared insights, and helped shape some incredible conversations.

Highlights: From Insight Stage to Innovation Showcase

• Rich Shaw, our Sustainability Lead, took to the Insights Stage for the panel session:
  ‘Sustainability in Health Technology: What is Required and Why?’
  Moderated by Helen Compton and joined by Helen Dawes, Sophia Lentzos, and Michael Hopkinson from the Department of Health and Social Care, the session offered practical insight into why sustainability matters now more than ever — and how it’s being embedded across the sector.

• Andrew Davidson, Pd-m Chair, brought his experience to the Start-Up Zone, helping judge NIHR-funded innovators as they pitched cutting-edge health technologies ready to scale.

• Later in the day, Rich Shaw and Prof. Pete Culmer (University of Leeds) showcased start-ups supported through our Innovation for Healthcare Net Zero programme — a collaboration with NIHR HRC Leeds. This session revealed how sustainable innovation, when embedded early, enables companies to move faster, reduce waste, and gain competitive edge.

• Pd-m CEO Richard Hall joined Judith Stewart (Health Innovation West Midlands) and others at MedTech Expo 2025 to explore how MedTech Innovators can meet evolving challenges. Drawing on 35+ years in design and innovation, he shared practical insights on getting products to market through sustainable innovation.

The Pd-m Stand: Constantly in Conversation

From the opening minutes of day one to the final moments of day two, Stand F35 was buzzing. Whether speaking with long-standing clients or first-time visitors, one message was clear:
Interest in how to embed sustainability has never been greater.

Every conversation — from multinational leaders to first-time founders — circled back to one thing: How can we design better, leaner, and more responsible products and services?

We shared how Pd-m helps organisations of all sizes:

• Release margin

• Improve efficiency

• Reduce carbon

• Accelerate time to market

Reflections: What We Saw, Heard, and Shared

• Interest has never been greater - the HOW of sustainable innovation had noticeably stepped up. All sessions where this topic was discussed we're very well attended, lots of engagement from the audience and after the sessions. 

• Financial challenges remain - the impact of MRD and re-certifying products has diverting funds away from innovation. Coupled to this are the cuts to innovation funding, it means getting a project off the ground is very challenging. However, having sustainability at the core of the innovation and the business model can significantly improve chances of accessing funding. 

• Innovation starts with a conversation - This was the busiest show in recent years, and there was a constant stream of visitors to our stand. Pd-m's expertise in sustainable innovation is fuelling collaboration with new partners in MedTech and neighbouring sectors.

What’s Next?

The real work starts now — following up with the incredible organisations we met to explore how Pd-m can help embed sustainable innovation into their next product or service.

If we didn’t get a chance to connect at the show, reach out — we’d love to talk. Whether you're an early-stage founder or a global manufacturer, we have the tools and experience to help you design smarter, scale faster, and grow more sustainably.


In case you missed our sessions.

London Biotechnology Show 2025

On the back of the MediWales Connects conference, our CEO Richard Hall made his way to the London Biotechnology Show for the first time — and left with plenty to reflect on.

We weren’t quite sure what to expect from the event, but were pleasantly surprised by the diversity of exhibitors and the energy around innovation — particularly from the early-stage companies making waves in the sector.

Start-Up Showcase: The Star of the Show

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the Start-Up Showcase, opened by Renos Savva, who set the tone for an inspiring session that celebrated the ambition and challenges of founders in biotech.

The showcase included:

• Fireside chats exploring “What makes a startup?”, “What it takes to be a founder”, and “Do you have what it takes to be a great founder?”

• A stream of Dragon’s Den-style 8-minute pitches from start-ups, complete with quick-fire Q&A from a judging panel in front of a packed room.

It was also encouraging to see Discovery Park highlighting how they’re helping high-growth start-ups scale — offering everything from mentoring and lab space to investment-readiness support.

Insight from Experience: The Entrepreneurial Academic

One of the standout talks came from Professor Stephen Hart, Professor of Molecular Genetics at UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health. He shared his personal journey as an entrepreneurial academic — including the lessons learned from scaling, exiting, and launching ventures repeatedly. A valuable insight into the reality of academic-to-industry transitions.

A Day of Reconnection

As with many events this season, the day offered a great opportunity to reconnect with friends across the health tech and biotech landscape:

• Richard J Hebdon of LifeArc

• Anil Vaidya and Nehal Thakore

• John Edwards of Guardtech Group — for the third time in two weeks!

Innovation with Purpose

Amid all the pitching and networking, sustainability remained a key talking point — with many start-ups embedding it as a core part of their value proposition, not just a compliance consideration.

For us at Pd-m, this alignment between innovation and sustainability is always energising to see — and crucial for building biotech solutions that are fit for the future.

Designing for Impact: Pd-m at MediWales Connects 2025

This year’s MediWales Connects conference in Cardiff brought together over 450 delegates, 105 speakers, and 45 exhibitors for a powerful day of knowledge exchange and collaboration across health, academia, and industry.

Representing Pd-m, our CEO Richard Hall was invited, on the day, to speak during a key session on the IQ Endoscopes Challenge, focused on addressing carbon reduction in the care pathway through design and innovation.

Spotlight on Sustainable Innovation

We were proud to see our collaborative work with IQ Endoscopes Limited take centre stage. While the device is single use, its thoughtful design delivers significant carbon savings across the patient care pathway.

Richard shared how design-led innovation can be a powerful enabler of carbon reduction, cost savings, and improved patient outcomes. He stressed that sustainability shouldn’t be seen as “another thing to deal with” but as a strategic driver — and the IQ Endoscopes team are a leading example of this mindset in action.

This project is poised to:

• Reduce patient waiting lists

• Relieve pressure on the healthcare system

• Increase clinical efficiency

• Reduce anxiety and trauma for patients awaiting diagnosis

All while remaining commercially viable — reducing carbon and cost without compromise.

The session featured voices from across the innovation and healthcare ecosystem, each sharing different lenses on how meaningful innovation takes hold:

• Zoe Hilton, Innovation Manager at Cardiff and Vale UHB, opened the session with the case for adopting innovation in healthcare.

• Owen Wilce, Public Service Innovation Manager at Cardiff Capital Region, highlighted how the project contributes to local economic impact and job creation.

• Sam Salisbury, Procurement Business Manager at NWSSP, spoke on value-based procurement and the importance of agility in adopting new solutions.

• Tom Kahan, CFO of IQ Endoscopes, underscored how real innovation comes from true collaboration, shared ambition, and strong leadership.

• Jennifer Waterman, Surgical Registrar at Cardiff and Vale UHB, emphasised the importance of getting to the coal-face early to understand user needs in depth.

Richard’s contribution focused on the importance of embedding design thinking early — to reduce carbon, meet regulatory requirements, and improve adoption.

Here is the session recording if you want to learn more.

MediWales Connects offered much more than stage time — it was a great opportunity to reconnect and meet new faces:

• Great to catch up with Al Mills, Debbie Laubach, and Emma Williams

• First-time meetings with Michael Beddard (Cedar), Martyn Lewis, Joy Browning, Kate Williams (SBRI), Katie Saddleton, and Mike McMahon (Royal Academy of Engineering)

Thanks to the organisers for an inspiring event — and to Gwyn Tudor for opening with powerful insights on the Welsh Life Sciences sector, which now includes 288 companies, an annual turnover of £2.62 billion, and over 12,000 employees.

Accelerating HealthTech Innovation: Pd-m at HIYH Webinar

We were pleased to contribute to Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber’s Accelerating HealthTech Innovation webinar series, a platform designed to support HealthTech innovators across the region.

Representing Pd-m, our CEO Richard Hall joined an expert panel to explore the topic: "Developing and Funding Clinically Safe and Effective Solutions."

The session, held on Wednesday 11th June, was moderated by Sean Clarkson and brought together a diverse panel of specialists:

• Adele Bunch and Adam Smith – sharing insight into PPIE (Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement)

• Laurence Glennon-Alty – focusing on early-stage funding opportunities

• Steve Roest – offering valuable industry insight

Richard’s talk focused on the role of innovation and sustainability in HealthTech, sharing advice on:

• The most common pitfalls during product development

• When to engage a product development partner

• Navigating regulatory documentation

• Embedding sustainability early for long-term competitive advantage

With the sector evolving rapidly, this webinar series equips innovators with knowledge and connections to navigate common challenges and accelerate their progress.

Whether you're at concept stage or scaling up, these conversations provide practical insight and strategic direction for HealthTech success in West Yorkshire and beyond.

In case you missed it, here are the highlights.

Highlights from BioFocus: A North East Perspective on Life Sciences

In these turbulent times, questions around the "State of the Nation" are front of mind for many in the life sciences industry. But amidst the uncertainty, there are strong positives to build on — and plenty of innovation to champion.

Drawing on over twenty years of experience leading Pd-m, our CEO Richard Hall was invited to speak on a panel at the recent Bionow BioFocus conference, held at The Catalyst, Newcastle Helix, on Wednesday 11 June.

Setting the Scene for Life Sciences in the North East

The morning panel, chaired by Michelle Duggan, Inward Investment Manager at Invest North East England, opened the day with a focus on the region’s strengths and key sector issues.

Richard was joined by a knowledgeable and diverse group of panellists:

• Dr. Dan Todd, CEO of InvenireX

• Heather Allinson RTTP, of Nevragenics

• Helen Brain, Square One Law | B Corp™

• Karen Winterhalter, Onyx Health

The session explored the North East’s long-standing legacy in pharmaceutical manufacturing — while also spotlighting fast-growing areas of innovation including advanced therapies, gene therapy, and AI applications in life sciences.

Richard’s Perspective: Sustainability, Skills & Smart Growth

Richard brought Pd-m’s unique design-for-impact perspective to the panel, speaking about:

• The critical role of sustainable innovation in driving long-term growth

• How to address funding gaps to accelerate product development

• The realities of adopting AI responsibly in regulated industries

• Why leadership and upskilling are essential for resilient, future-ready teams

Shaping the Future of Labs, Therapies & Technology

This year’s BioFocus was full of engaging discussions on flexible, sustainable labs, new funding streams, and the transformative therapies and technologies shaping the future of life sciences.

Many thanks to Charlotte B. of Rapid Fluidics for capturing photos of the panel in action, and to Claire Rutherford of Definition IP Limited | B Corp™ for generously hosting a mid-conference webinar in their meeting space.

In case you missed the conference, here are the highlights.

Our insights and highlights from SurgTech 2025

Thank you to everyone who attended and stopped by our exhibition stand at SurgTech 2025. It was a pleasure reconnecting with familiar faces and meeting new ones throughout the conference. 

This year’s event centred on the “3 shifts” outlined in the NHS 10-year plan: 

 - From sickness to prevention 

 - From analogue to digital 

 - From hospital to community care 

Organised by the NIHR Health Research Centre, SurgTech continues to be a catalyst for innovation, bringing together the best in MedTech, research and clinical expertise. 

From the welcome by David Jayne and Varaidzo (Vee) Mapunde, to opening remarks by Phil Wood outlining the scale and ambition of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, it was clear this is a community with drive and purpose. 

Breakout sessions explored everything from Health Economics and Inequalities to Unlocking UK HealthTech Potential. The industry showcases – featuring Intuitive, Revolution-ZERO | B Corp Certified, Stryker, and more – gave a strong signal of the commercial momentum behind sustainable innovation. 

Unlocking Product Sustainability Through Design 

At Pd-m, we’ve long believed that design holds the key to product sustainability. That’s why we ran a survey at SurgTech 2025 asking delegates: 

“How much of a product’s environmental impact is determined at the design stage?”

Only 8% of the 36 respondents answered correctly: 80%. 

The majority – 55% – believed it to be 30% or less. 

This knowledge gap is significant. The design phase defines key decisions – materials, coatings, assembly, packaging – that lock in environmental impact from the start. And with the NHS Net Zero roadmap pushing for reductions in supply chain emissions, the implications for medical device companies are clear. 

For those looking to make meaningful change, design is the starting point. 

Through our product development process, we help businesses: 

• Pull every lever of Sustainable Innovation – from material choice to advanced manufacture 

• Identify carbon hotspots across the product lifecycle 

• Apply Circular Design principles to reduce both carbon and cost, while increasing value 

Whether it’s aligning with NHS goals or unlocking market growth, it’s a clear win-win. 

Sustainability Masterclass: A Full House 

Our Sustainability Lead Rich Shaw, together with Professor Pete Culmer (University of Leeds) and Consultant Surgeon Adam Peckham-Cooper (NIHR HRC), delivered a one-hour Sustainability Masterclass focused on circular economy and carbon reduction in MedTech. 

With 30+ attendees and an oversubscribed session, it was clear that the appetite for actionable sustainability strategies is growing fast across the sector. 

CEO Interview: Reflecting on 20 Years in HealthTech 

Our CEO Richard Hall was invited to speak on camera about our journey in HealthTech—sharing what we’ve learned over two decades, our collaborations with Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust and the University of Leeds, and how we see the future of healthcare innovation shaping up. 

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going 

If you’re a high-growth start-up or established organisation looking to embed sustainability into your MedTech product development, we’d love to chat. 

• Book a meeting with Rich Shaw to learn more about Carbon Reduction Planning and Lifecycle Assessment 

• Connect with Richard Hall to explore how strategic design can unlock new value 

See you at the next event. Let’s build a more sustainable future—by design. 

Your Task Is Not To Foresee The Future, But To Enable It

These powerful words from Antoine de Saint Exupery were shared by Dr. David Swann at the inaugural Design Council Manchester Collective event hosted at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Along with design colleagues Bronwen Rees, Kyle Soo, and Darren Evans, we've been developing plans to establish a Design Council, Design Experts in the North Collective. Our vision is straightforward yet impactful – to disseminate the skills and knowledge from the Design for Planet initiative to the broader creative community. This effort aligns with the ambitious mission to upskill 1 million designers for the green transition by 2030.

Event Highlights

The well-attended gathering featured three insightful lightning talks presented by Eloise Smith-Foster, Paul Scholefield, and Dr. David Swann. Following an open-floor soapbox session where attendees shared community messages, each speaker presented their unique perspective on addressing Net Zero through various lenses: systems, product, behaviour, and vision.

Key Themes Explored

• Design for Planet X Climate Change Justice: The discussion addressed barriers to sustainability transitions, including concepts of Separation, Modernity, Extraction, and Exploitation.

• Project SUPERB: This initiative focuses on upscaling forest restoration with the aim of restoring forest landscapes across Europe. The project works to create an enabling environment for implementing forward-looking forest restoration at different scales.

• Project Infuse: Aimed at inspiring futures for net zero carbon mobility (https://in-fuze.org.uk), this project emphasises openness to change, willingness to act, knowledge for decision-making, ability to imagine meaningful futures, and capacity to make change.

Collaborative Workshop Sessions

The event format included break-out workshops that allowed all delegates to explore each theme in greater depth. These sessions provided valuable opportunities for participants to share insights and experiences while engaging in further debate about sustainable design approaches.

The evening concluded with remarkable energy, with conversations continuing well after the official close of the event – a testament to the enthusiasm and commitment of all who attended.

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in what proved to be a fantastic inaugural gathering of the Design Council Manchester Collective. This event marks just the beginning of our collaborative journey toward enabling a more sustainable design future.

One Giant Leap for FemTech: Our Takeaways from FemHealth Integrates

As an organisation that has worked in the FemTech space, supporting clients with innovation and sustainability initiatives, we recently attended the FemHealth Integrates event in Manchester. This gathering, organised by Samuel Thangiah and Christopher Watt, hosted by Bruntwood SciTech and sponsored by partners including Lifted Ventures and Mills & Reeve, provided valuable insights into the evolving FemTech landscape.

FemHealth Integrates 2025 offered an excellent opportunity to engage with the movement addressing equality in biotech and healthcare, tackling both long-standing inequalities and exploring the emerging field of FemTech.

Key Sessions and Discussions

The event opened with a thought-provoking fireside chat facilitated by Jordan Dargue, featuring panellists Elaine Galston and Kath Mackay. Their discussion highlighted the persistent gender health gap, noting that despite women generally living longer than men, they spend approximately 25% more of their lives dealing with debilitating health issues.

A session entitled "Women on Trial," facilitated by Steph Caird with panellists Dace Dimza-Jones, Claire Williams, Charlotte Chadwick, and Olivia Wickens, explored strategies to increase the inclusion of women in medical research - a critical step toward addressing healthcare disparities.

The "Investing in Women" discussion, chaired by Vicky Protano with insights from Jessica Jackson, Helen Oldham, Candice Brett, Nicholas Dodd, and Alison Maughan, examined how to build a cohort of female investors to support purpose-led, innovative, and commercially strong women-founded businesses.

Cultural change was another prominent theme, recognising women's significant contributions to shaping healthcare policies, advancing medical research, and transforming patient care. Kathryn Simpson chaired this session, with panellists Jackie Macritchie, Sahana Nayak, Alex Hogarty, and Eleni Menegatou exploring how to create a more inclusive culture that empowers women leaders in healthcare and business.

The day concluded with "The Future of FemTech," hosted by Aahuti Rai. This session featured Lydia Mapstone, Yasmin Baba, and Jean Ledger discussing how to ensure sustainable, long-term growth in FemTech to address healthcare inequalities effectively.

Looking Forward

Andy Roberts provided insightful closing comments, summarising three key themes to consider as the industry grows, with particular emphasis on understanding customer needs and identifying who the customer actually is.

The event provided valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders and innovators, including Anja Ueland, Anastassia Bolotkova, Helen Oldham, Varaidzo Mapunde, Dr. Tony Bairstow, Kath Mackay, Geoff Davison, Andy Roberts, Stella James, Phil Carvil, and Kathryn Simpson.

FemHealth Integrates 2025 reinforced our commitment to supporting advancements in women's health technology and addressing systemic inequalities in healthcare through collaborative innovation.

Empact Ventures Conference on HealthTech and Connectivity

Pd-m's CEO, Richard Hall, recently represented the company at the Empact Ventures conference hosted at GBS in Birmingham. The event, which focused on HealthTech and connectivity, brought together industry leaders and innovators to discuss the latest advancements and challenges in healthcare technology.

The conference, organised by Kosta Mavroulakis, FRSA and supported by Jemma Cooper, featured several notable presentations and panel discussions that addressed crucial aspects of technological integration in healthcare systems.

Nicholas Fuggle delivered a compelling keynote on Artificial Intelligence in Musculoskeletal Medicine, providing historical context from Alan Turing's foundational work to present-day applications. Fuggle presented substantial evidence demonstrating AI's superior capabilities in diagnostic processes compared to traditional human analysis.

Con Franklin showcased the groundbreaking Seha Virtual Hospital in Saudi Arabia, illustrating how remote patient care is revolutionising healthcare delivery. This virtual approach eliminates geographical barriers to specialist care, making healthcare more accessible, efficient, and cost-effective across diverse regions.

A highlight of the event was the roundtable discussion on 'Integrating AI and HealthTech into Healthcare Systems,' featuring Paul Dimitri, Peter Bailey, Yigot Erol, and Kamal Patel. The panelists engaged in a stimulating debate about the challenges healthcare systems face in keeping pace with rapidly advancing technologies.

Richard Hall participated as a panelist in the session titled 'Building Capacity in Health Tech through Training and Educational Opportunities.' Alongside Katy Tuncer and Steve Woods, and chaired by Dan Conneely, he contributed to discussions about addressing skills gaps in sustainability and artificial intelligence. The panel explored how academic institutions and industry partners can collaborate to develop adaptive educational solutions for the evolving healthcare technology sector.

"The conference provided valuable insights into the current state and future direction of healthcare technology," said Richard Hall. "These discussions align perfectly with our mission to advance innovative solutions in the HealthTech space."

The event also offered networking opportunities with industry professionals including Varaidzo Mapunde, Agnes Crutchard-Balduz, Victor Tapia Olivares, Paul Dimitri, Ian Sharp, Taryn Hobson, and Maggi Tebrake.

Pd-m continues to position itself at the forefront of healthcare technology innovation, leveraging events like the Empact Ventures conference to stay informed about industry trends and foster collaborative partnerships.

Pd-m Wins Bionow Technical Service Award for Sustainability Excellence

We did it! We are thrilled to announce that we have won the Bionow Technical Service Award, recognising our contributions to sustainability in the life sciences industry. This award highlights our ongoing efforts to help businesses achieve Net Zero, embrace the Circular Economy, and implement Carbon Reduction Plans while increasing profitability through tailored innovation services.

The awards evening was an incredible experience, set under the magnificent Concorde at Manchester Airport. It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate with peers, reconnect with old friends, and forge new relationships within the life sciences sector.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Our tailored innovation services help businesses transition toward a sustainable, more commercially viable future.
We provide:

• Free Information and Advice

• Fee-for-Service Consultancy

• Carbon Reduction Plans

• Carbon Literacy Workshops

• Product Carbon Footprinting and Lifecycle Analysis

• ‘Innovate to Zero’ Workshops

Our Impact in the Health Tech Sector

Our strategic thinking and holistic approach means we’re always looking to tomorrow. We consider the entire lifecycle of a product, not just its manufacture and use. By designing for end of life, the products we’re part of leading to market today are part of a more sustainable future.
Using an established methodology integrated into our design process, we develop products that are not only more sustainable, but also deliver a cost benefit. Our approach is pragmatic, realistic but above all, commercial.

Explore Our Sustainability Resources

If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of sustainability and how it can benefit your business, our website offers a wealth of resources, including:

• Case studies showcasing successful sustainability projects.

• Videos on implementing carbon reduction strategies.

• Insights on how design and innovation can drive commercial and environmental benefits.

• Upcoming workshops and events where you can learn from our experts.

For those who positively engage with sustainability, who innovate, who create a competitive advantage and take a leading position, there are significant benefits to be had.

Join Us on the Sustainability Journey

As we proudly display this award at our headquarters, we extend our sincere gratitude to Bionow for this recognition and to our dedicated team whose passion and expertise have made this achievement possible.

Explore our services, engage with our resources, or reach out to our team to see how we can help your business innovate towards a greener future.

The Innovation Mindset: WYIF at Nexus Leeds

At Pd-m, we're passionate about fostering innovation across industries. Our CEO, Richard Hall, recently participated in an engaging panel discussion at the West Yorkshire Innovation Festival, sharing valuable insights on developing an innovation mindset in today's business landscape.

A Meeting of Innovative Minds

The fireside chat, hosted at Nexus Leeds and chaired by Mandy Ridyard, brought together a panel of innovation experts including Richard Hall, Sue Cooke, and Mark Roberts. The discussion delved into critical aspects of innovation in business environments.

Richard engaged with questions from both the chair and audience members, exploring topics such as:

• Defining innovation in practical terms

• Leadership strategies for embedding innovation within organisations

• The crucial role of culture in fostering innovative thinking

• Implementing "fail fast, fail cheap" methodologies

• Finding the right balance between disruption and structure in early-stage innovation

• Overcoming innovation adoption challenges within the NHS

Beyond Breakthroughs: Innovation in Daily Problem-Solving

A key theme throughout the discussion was that innovation isn't limited to major transformational breakthroughs. As Richard highlighted, it's equally about everyday problem-solving, experimentation, and maintaining openness to change.

Mandy Ridyard shared a compelling example from Produmax Ltd, where an apprentice transformed a quality inspection process from a 90-minute procedure to one taking just 90 seconds—demonstrating how innovation at any level can significantly impact throughput and profitability.

Pd-m's Approach to Innovation

Richard had the opportunity to showcase how our team at Pd-m has approached innovation over our 20-year history. He emphasised our flexible methodology, tailoring our innovation approach based on:

• Specific project requirements

• Organisational structures

• Client appetite for transformative versus incremental change

He also highlighted the important distinction between invention and innovation—a fundamental concept in our work with clients across sectors.

West Yorkshire's Rich Innovation Heritage

The discussion acknowledged West Yorkshire's impressive legacy of innovation, including:

• The first commercial steam train built by Matthew Murray

• The invention of stainless steel by Harry Brearley

• The mousetrap, created by James Henry Atkinson

• Motorway cat's eyes, invented by Percy Shaw

Looking Forward: Innovation-Led Growth

Fellow panelist Mark Roberts shared insights from his book, "The Entrepreneur Within," focusing on how to FORGE innovation-led growth by embracing the inner entrepreneur. His examples of disruptive thinking and bringing stakeholders along on innovation journeys resonated with Pd-m's own philosophy.

Regional Innovation Ecosystem

The event underscored the strength of West Yorkshire's innovation ecosystem, with its cluster of academic institutions, professional networks, industrial excellence, and collective ambition to establish the region as an innovation powerhouse.

The festival provided an excellent opportunity for networking, with Richard connecting with familiar faces like Nathan Berry, John Cooper, and Colin Glass, while also meeting Jo Barham and Lee Viney in person for the first time.

As we continue our innovation journey at Pd-m, events like these reinforce the importance of collaboration, creative thinking, and embracing change—principles that remain at the core of our approach to product design and development.

Turning Innovative Ideas into Successful Businesses: Our Masterclass Insights

On 4 March 2025, we had the incredible opportunity to host a masterclass as part of the West Yorkshire Innovation Festival. Our event, "10 Things You Need to Know When Commercialising Innovation," brought together some of the most experienced minds in business innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Lineup of Experts

Our morning was powered by a stellar lineup of professionals:

• Richard Hall (Pd-m) - With credentials including MSc, BA(Hons), CMgr MCMI, FRSA, Richard brought decades of strategic insights

• Jane Slimming (Zeal) - A seasoned professional with deep expertise in innovation commercialisation

• Charlotte Walsh and Michael Crinnion - Entrepreneurs who shared their raw, unfiltered journeys

What Made the Morning Special

The masterclass wasn't just another talking heads session. It was a deep dive into the real-world challenges of turning innovative ideas into successful businesses. Participants were treated to:

• Practical strategies for balancing divergent thinking with business practicality

• Insights into creating a truly effective Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

• Candid conversations about the entrepreneurial journey

The Fireside Chat: Real Stories, Real Lessons

Perhaps the most compelling part of our event was the fireside chat. Charlotte Walsh and Michael Crinnion didn't just share success stories – they opened up about the challenges, the pivots, and the learning curves that come with entrepreneurship.

“What struck me most? The sheer number of entrepreneurs and inventors in the audience, all eager to learn, share, and (let’s be honest) commiserate about the realities of startup life.”

— Charlotte Walsh

“Getting the right people around you is critical to surviving and thriving in entrepreneurship. Especially as a solo founder.”

— Michael Crinnion

Our Incredible Host

A special thank you to Katherine Megson from Bruntwood SciTech, who not only hosted the event but ensured everyone was comfortable and well-fed with breakfast and refreshments.

“It brought the right level of knowledge, advice plus humour. my personal favourite slide was ‘kill your idea’ or through graphics alone ”

— Katherine Megson

By the Numbers

• Attendees: 20+ passionate innovators and entrepreneurs

• Duration: Morning session

• Key Takeaway: Innovation is a journey, not a destination

What's Next?

We're already buzzing from the energy and insights of this event. Stay tuned for more opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with the innovation community.

Partnered with Zeal | Part of West Yorkshire Innovation Festival

Innovation for Healthcare Net Zero Webinar

Last week, Pd-m delivered keynote insights at the Innovation for Healthcare Net Zero Programme's first webinar, marking the launch of a targeted initiative for HTech startups. This free support programme brings together leading healthcare institutions including NIHR, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Leeds, and Health Innovation Network to guide the next generation of sustainable healthcare innovations.

Our team shared expertise on integrating circular economy principles into early-stage healthcare innovation, demonstrating practical methodologies for optimising resource efficiency and implementing lifecycle assessment in initial design phases.

Designed to assist innovators from an early stage in developing new technologies for Net Zero Healthcare, the programme will place an emphasis on practical and focused activities on how to navigate the challenges and opportunities associated with embedding sustainability within innovation.

Key Programme Details:

• Who Should Apply: Early-stage MedTech startups and innovators

• Cost: Free support programme

• Focus: Practical guidance on embedding sustainability in healthcare innovations

• Application Deadline: February 28th, 2025

Get Involved:

Watch the introductory webinar: Click here

To apply : Click here

For more information about our net zero healthcare design services or to discuss your medical device project, contact our team.

Pd-m Shortlisted for 2024 Bionow Technical Service Award

We are thrilled to announce our shortlisting for the Technical Service Award at the 2024 Bionow Awards, recognising our work in Achieving Sustainability in Life Science. We stand proudly alongside fellow nominees Concept Life Sciences, CrystecPharma, and Scientist.com in this category.

The awards ceremony, taking place on March 6th under the iconic Concorde, promises to be an exceptional evening of celebrating innovation in the Life Science community. At Pd-m, we understand that sustainability isn't just an environmental imperative – it's a business opportunity. Our approach helps organisations transform the Net Zero challenge into commercial advantages, creating lasting value while contributing to a more sustainable industry.

For those attending the ceremony, we welcome the opportunity to discuss how Pd-m can support your sustainability transformation. Our team specialises in developing solutions that create lasting value while advancing Net Zero goals and circular economy initiatives in the Life Science sector.

To learn more about our expertise in sustainable business transformation and Net Zero strategies, please contact our team.

The National HealthTech Conference: Innovation, Sustainability, and AI in Healthcare

Last week, our CEO attended The National HealthTech Conference in London, bringing back valuable insights into the current state and future of healthcare technology in the UK. The event showcased the vibrant innovation landscape, particularly highlighting the strength of digital healthcare solutions in the North of England.

Innovation Showcase

Among the standout presentations was Victoria Burnip of Cognitive Health Tech Ltd, who demonstrated groundbreaking digital technology that's making waves in the healthcare sector. The exhibition floor buzzed with innovative solutions, including notable work from Hodgkinson McCambridge, who are pioneering new approaches to digital healthcare applications.

Future of Healthcare

Dr Karen Kirkham from Deloitte delivered a compelling keynote presentation on the future of health and key drivers of change. Her data-driven approach provided a comprehensive view of where healthcare is heading, offering valuable insights for industry stakeholders.

AI and the NHS

A significant portion of the conference focused on artificial intelligence and its growing role in the NHS. A panel discussion featuring NHS insiders Francesca Markland and Michael Wright addressed critical questions about the health service's ability to keep pace with rapidly evolving AI technology. The consensus was clear: collaboration will be key to successful implementation.

Sustainability in Healthcare

Our partnership with the NIHR (National Institute for Health and Care Research) HRC continues to strengthen, with a particular focus on sustainability. During her presentation, Varaidzo (Vee) Mapunde highlighted Pd-m's crucial role in supporting organisations with sustainable innovation - a testament to our commitment to environmentally conscious healthcare solutions.

Sustainability Focus

The breakout sessions delved deep into sustainability issues, covering crucial topics such as Net Zero initiatives, circular economy principles, and carbon reduction strategies in health technology. The discussions emphasised the importance of carbon literacy and effective leadership in driving sustainable change.

Looking Forward

The conference also provided an opportunity to strengthen our relationships with Health Innovation Networks across the country, expanding our national presence and impact. We're excited about the possibilities these deepening collaborations bring to our work in healthcare innovation.

Special thanks to Kosta Mavroulakis, FRSA of Empact Ventures for organising such an impactful event.

As we continue to drive innovation in healthcare technology, these insights and connections will prove invaluable in shaping our approach to creating sustainable, effective healthcare solutions for the future.

Design-Led Innovation: Insights from NIHR Innovation Observatory Event

Pd-m's CEO Richard recently shared valuable insights on Design-Led Innovation at an event hosted by the NIHR Innovation Observatory. Richard opened up the event with his keynote '10 things to consider when approaching design led innovation'.

The event brought together diverse perspectives from healthcare and innovation leaders. Megan Foden from Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust delivered an impactful presentation highlighting the critical role of human-centred design in improving patient outcomes from a clinical standpoint. 

A particularly compelling case study was presented by Linzi E. Dodd, who shared her journey developing a wearable sensor. The project, which originally aimed to address challenges in scuba diving, underwent a fascinating pivot to find applications in neonatal care - demonstrating the unexpected paths innovation can take.

Ben Porter from Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria contributed valuable insights about navigating innovation pathways, while Matthew Lievesley of Northumbria University provided thoughtful perspectives during the Q&A panel discussion.

The event, expertly organised by Dawn Musgrave, Sherilyn O., and Jen Taylor, also facilitated meaningful connections with industry peers, including Michelle Dixon of Durham University and Charlotte Watkins of Secerna LLP.

As the official partners to the NIHR (National Institute for Health and Care Research) for Innovation and Sustainability we're so happy to contribute on a national level to share our knowledge, insights and experience to organisations of all sizes and technology readiness. The event underscored the vital role of collaborative approaches and human-centred design in developing effective solutions for complex challenges.

MEDICA 2024

MEDICA 2024: Exploring Game-Changing Healthcare Innovations 

Every year, MEDICA establishes itself as a global hub for medical technology, and 2024 was no exception. Our team spent an insightful day navigating the START-UP PARK, where emerging companies showcased innovative solutions addressing real healthcare challenges. Here's a closer look at the technologies that stood out: 

Carpal Tunnel Surgery: Spirecut 

Spirecut, based in Switzerland, offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional carpal tunnel surgery. Using ultrasound-guided technology, their approach eliminates the need for large incisions, enabling faster recovery and greater patient comfort. The innovation is spearheaded by Frédéric Schuind, whose expertise drives their commitment to improving surgical outcomes. 

Dignified Care Through Technology: AssistMe 

AssistMe is transforming care settings with their incontinence management system, which combines smart sensors and software to enhance efficiency and dignity. Their Berlin-based team, led by Julio Brandl, is addressing a critical area of elder and disability care with practical, user-focused solutions. 

Healing with Bio-Signals: SynPhNe 

SynPhNe specialises in bio-signal technology that translates muscle, heart, and brain signals into actionable insights. Their platform is particularly impactful for children’s developmental therapy, offering new ways to understand and support learning. Founded by Dr. Subhasis Banerji and Dr. John Heng, this Singapore-based company is redefining bio-signal applications. 

Needle-Free Diabetes Monitoring: Glucowave 

Glucowave by Medisensonic has developed a microwave-based glucose monitor, eliminating the need for needles or patches. The measuring element of the device touches the patient's skin and measures subcutaneous tissue parameters without puncture, eliminating the pain and stress of classical measurement. This pain-free solution could improve diabetes care, offering a seamless experience for users. Medisensonic is led by Robert Gromada, who envisions a future where glucose monitoring is accessible and non-invasive.  

Sustainability in Diagnostics: Solios Diagnostics 

Solios Diagnostics is redefining lateral flow testing with a modular platform built for efficiency and sustainability. Designed to offer rapid on-site diagnostics in human, veterinary, and food safety sectors, supporting both antigen and molecular testing. Minimising environmental impact while enhancing diagnostic capabilities, this innovative solution reflects the growing focus on greener healthcare technologies. Headed by Dr. Tina Hassberg who focuses on how diagnostics could be improved to be faster, easier, and more sustainable. 

Neurological Innovation: tVNS 

tVNS Technologies is advancing non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation through a wearable, ear-based device. This platform addresses neurological conditions like epilepsy and depression with a sophisticated yet accessible approach. The company is led by Tobias Jeglorz and Dr Armin Bolz, whose vision focuses on creating effective, patient-friendly therapies. 

Streamlining Diagnostics: Higo 

Higo has introduced a multi-functional diagnostic device that combines 25 types of examinations into five easy-to-use modules. With step-by-step guidance, the device simplifies complex assessments, making diagnostics more accessible in diverse settings. Founded by Łukasz Krasnopolski and Michał Biernat, the company is setting a new benchmark for medical efficiency. 

Early Dementia Detection: BrainTrip 

BrainTrip is making strides in EEG analysis with their Dementia Index, a tool designed for early detection. By simplifying the process and providing actionable insights, this solution offers hope for better outcomes. The company was founded by Jurji Dreo and David Sakić who are applying their experience in developing scalable and noninvasive diagnostic tools for neurology and neuropsychiatry. 

Why MEDICA Matters 

These innovations underscore the potential of technology to address critical healthcare challenges, combining practicality with empathy. From diagnostics to therapy and sustainability, the companies we encountered are shaping a future of more effective, accessible, and patient-focused healthcare. 

We’re excited to follow their progress and see the impact these solutions will have in the years to come. 

Stay tuned for more updates on the latest in healthcare innovation. 

Design for Planet festival 2024

The Design for Planet Festival 2024 in Manchester was a landmark event, bringing together innovators and practitioners to redefine sustainable design. The festival was a call to action, encouraging organisations to move beyond conventional practices and embrace design as a strategic force for tackling the planet's pressing challenges.  

 
A Debate on Nature-Positive Outcomes   

One of the festival's highlights was the Design Debates: Products vs. Business Models session, where our CEO, Richard Hall, joined a panel of experts to explore how best to achieve sustainability. He championed reducing carbon = reduce cost = increase profitability. 
 
Richard shared tacit knowledge on the stage; which was also streamed live to 5,000 online in 100 countries. 

The panel brought together leading voices from both perspectives, offering unique insights into the paths toward a sustainable future:   

The Product Approach: Richard, alongside Lisa Henderson and Bernice Pan, championed the potential of well-designed products to deliver immediate, tangible benefits. They argued that a single product, thoughtfully designed, can disrupt markets, inspire innovation, and make a significant impact.   

The Business Model Approach: Opposing this view, Efia, Pete Swift, and Simeon Rose emphasised the power of business models in driving systemic change. By embedding nature-positive principles into corporate strategies, business models can foster cultural shifts and create long-term, accumulative benefits.  

Key Themes Explored   

1. Speed vs. Scale: Products offer quick, visible wins, while business models enable broader, lasting transformations. 

2. Impact: Both approaches must balance cost with effectiveness in addressing environmental and societal challenges. 

3. Diversity: Inclusive solutions are vital, ensuring sustainability benefits reach diverse communities. 

The Path Forward   

While there may not be a definitive answer to the debate, the session underscored an essential truth: products and business models are not mutually exclusive. A well-designed product can catalyse broader systemic changes, and innovative business models can amplify the reach and impact of sustainable products.   

What do you think is the most effective approach? Share your thoughts on how businesses and innovators can prioritise nature-positive outcomes!   

Watch the full video of the Design Debates here.

The festival explored several transformative ideas, here are our top ones:   

1. Breaking Down Silos 

Richard highlighted how design thinking should influence decision-making at every level of an organisation. This echoes Pd-m’s integrated approach, where design drives innovation across business functions.   

2. From Circular to Regenerative Design 

Moving beyond circularity, speakers like Sophie Thomas urged designers to embrace regenerative principles and repurpose materials authentically, challenging traditional aesthetics in favor of durability and sustainability.   

3. Cross-Disciplinary Innovation  

Patrick Grant’s call to rethink profit-first metrics resonated strongly. Pd-m’s use of co-design methodologies fosters collaboration, creating solutions that are not only sustainable but also deeply user-centered.   

4. Systems Thinking 

Dr. Talia Hussain emphasised the ripple effects of design decisions on broader systems, a concept central to Pd-m’s commitment to evaluating product lifecycles and ecosystem impacts.   

Join the Conversation ! 

The Design for Planet Festival 2024 energised our vision for sustainability. Whether through innovative products or transformative business models, we are committed to designing for a better planet.   

Interested in how strategic design can drive sustainability in your organisation? Let’s start the conversation. 

Medilink Midlands Innovation Day 2024: Driving Innovation and Sustainability

On October 3rd, 2024, Pd-m attended Medilink Midlands’ Innovation Day, held at Coventry Building Society Arena. The event brought together a diverse group of innovators, businesses, and academics from the MedTech and life sciences sector, providing a valuable opportunity for knowledge exchange and networking. 

Representing Pd-m, our team, including Andrew Davidson, Rich Shaw, and Richard Hall, exhibited at the event, connecting with familiar faces and meeting new collaborators. Our discussions centred on how Pd-m’s innovative approach helps organisations embrace sustainability in ways that drive tangible business value. 

One of the highlights of the event was Rich Shaw's talk on how businesses can leverage the Net Zero challenge as an opportunity for growth. His presentation, which included a Pd-m case study that demonstrated a carbon reduction of over 26%, captured the attention of attendees eager to understand how sustainable innovation can become a competitive advantage. Rich’s insights emphasised the role design and innovation play in making sustainability a cornerstone of business strategy, aligning both environmental and commercial goals. 

The day also featured an engaging exhibition, with 37 organisations showcasing the latest in life sciences and MedTech. Among those who visited our stand were several professionals, including Al Mills, Chris Dyke, Costa Philippou, Benjamin Roberts, and Dr. Ash Ghadar.  

The event, expertly hosted by Sue Saville, provided invaluable networking opportunities and knowledge-sharing moments. Workshops covered critical topics for early-stage companies, such as intellectual property, contracting, and funding pathways for healthcare innovation. 

For those interested in how sustainability can drive commercial value and enhance product innovation, Pd-m remains dedicated to partnering with forward-thinking organisations ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Feel free to reach out to Rich Shaw, to discuss how Pd-m can help you turn sustainability challenges into business opportunities. 

If you missed Innovation Day 2024, we invite you to join us at future events, where we’ll continue to share insights into the future of sustainable MedTech innovation. 
 
If you missed Rich's presentation, a recording is now live on our YouTube channel. Watch it here!