A. Brice Kounga (PhD, MBA)
Professional Portfolio
Business Executive | Innovation | GMP Operations
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About Me
With 20 years of comprehensive expertise spanning MedTech, Pharma and Automotive, I lead product development and innovation from concept to commercialization. I've successfully launched novel medical devices and combination products and driving a 25% average reduction in time-to-market for complex projects. My strategic foresight and technical precision are complemented by a strong ability to foster high-performing, cross-functional teams, having led teams of up to 20 engineers and scientists across diverse projects. I leverage extensive experience, including 10+ strategic partnerships, to seamlessly integrate development, production, quality, and regulatory functions, consistently achieving 95%+ on-time regulatory approvals and generating over $30M in new product revenue.
Innovation in Action
My approach to MedTech innovation bridges scientific discovery with practical clinical applications, delivering solutions that enhance patient outcomes and elevate global healthcare standards. Below are specific examples illustrating how I translate complex challenges into measurable success.
Challenge: Prolonged Time-to-Market for Novel Device
A critical gap in dental restoration required a new device, but conventional development cycles projected a lengthy launch, delaying patient benefits.
Solution: Streamlined Development & Regulatory Strategy
Led a multidisciplinary team to implement parallel development tracks, integrating early regulatory consultations and rapid prototyping. Optimized clinical trial design for efficiency.
Result: 28% Faster Market Entry & $20M in Revenue
Successfully launched the device 28% faster than industry average, securing 98% on-time regulatory approval and contributing over $20 million in new product revenue within the first 5 years.
Challenge: Underfunded Therapeutic for Hypothermia
A promising therapeutic compound for a rare neurological disorder lacked the necessary investment for pivotal clinical trials due to perceived high risk.
Solution: Strategic Partnership & Funding Acquisition
Orchestrated a strategic partnership with a leading biotech firm, securing $30M in non-dilutive funding. Presented a robust data package and clear commercialization pathway.
Result: Accelerated Phase III & Enhanced Patient Access
Enabled the acceleration of Phase III clinical trials, leading to breakthrough designation and setting the stage for faster patient access to a life-changing treatment.
Challenge: Inefficient Manufacturing for Combination Product
An innovative drug-delivery combination product faced scalability issues and high manufacturing costs, hindering its widespread adoption.
Solution: Process Optimization & Automation
Implemented advanced manufacturing technologies and lean principles, redesigning the production line for improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Fostered cross-functional collaboration between R&D and Operations.
Result: 35% Cost Reduction & Increased Capacity
Achieved a 35% reduction in unit manufacturing cost and increased production capacity by 50%, making the product more accessible and profitable in key global markets.
Educational Background
01
Master of Science in Physics
Universität des Saarlandes, Saarbrücken, Germany - Developed a strong foundation in advanced materials science and physical principles, which proved essential for understanding the underlying mechanics and behavior of novel materials, directly informing the design and optimization of automotive and medical devices and combination products.
02
Doctor of Philosophy
Materials Science and Engineering, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Germany - Conducted specialized research in advanced materials, directly leading to the innovation of biocompatible surfaces for implants and high-performance components for diagnostic tools, achieving breakthroughs in product efficacy and longevity.
03
Master of Business Administration
Edinburgh School of Business, Scotland, United Kingdom - Acquired strategic management and business leadership expertise, which is instrumental in successfully launching new products, optimizing market entry strategies, and securing key partnerships that drive substantial growth.
My academic background uniquely integrates deep technical expertise in materials science with strategic business acumen, effectively bridging scientific innovation and commercial success in the MedTech and Pharma industry
Professional Excellence
Executive Leadership
Unifying strategic vision with operational prowess to manage complex MedTech portfolios and propel organizational growth through innovation.
Product Development & Quality
Driving end-to-end product lifecycle, from initial concept to commercialization, regulatory approval, and successful market launch.
Team Building
Building and empowering high-performance teams, fostering collaboration that accelerates innovation and delivers exceptional, measurable results.
Professional Development
Dedicated to continuous growth, I leverage specialized certifications and advanced training to elevate strategic leadership and technical expertise in medical device development.
1
Leading People and Teams
Developed key leadership capabilities, including inspiring and motivating teams, effective talent management, influencing without formal authority, and guiding high-performing groups.
2
QM International Expert
Mastered medical device quality management systems and regulatory compliance.
3
Strategic Management
Honed strategic planning, organizational development, and executive decision-making capabilities.
4
Straumann Academy
Certified in dental implant systems, clinical protocols, and advanced treatment methodologies.
5
Google Project Management
Certified in agile methodologies, project planning, and cross-functional team coordination.
6
Six Sigma Green Belt
Applied process optimization, quality control, and data-driven decision making for operational excellence.
7
Clinical Trials Management
Advanced operations training in clinical research protocols, regulatory compliance, and study execution.
Work Experience
Over 15 years driving breakthrough innovation and commercial success in medical technology, advancing from technical leadership to strategic executive roles in industry-leading organizations and innovative startups.
1
2010
MedTech Executive
Led 8 global lifecycle projects for implants and prostheses, spearheading innovation in dental and orthopedic solutions. Managed cross-functional teams of up to 25 engineers, resulting in the successful launch of 12 new products.
2
2017
Senior MedTech Executive
As cofounder and head of Technology & Operations for 3 medical device startups, drove strategic leadership and innovation. Secured over $10M in seed funding, filed 7 patents, and guided 2 products from concept to market entry within 3 years.
3
2025
Interim Management
Provided interim strategic leadership for 2 high-growth medical device companies. Secured $5M in Series A funding, managed the development of 4 key product lines, and optimized operational processes, reducing time-to-market by 15%.
Core Competencies
  • Product lifecycle management
  • Strategic fundraising & investor relations
  • Innovation & IP management
  • Cross-functional team leadership
Key Focus Areas
  • Medical device development & commercialization
  • Regulatory compliance & quality systems
  • Strategic partnerships & business development
  • Technology transfer & operations
Key Achievements
Product Development Excellence
Novel Materials Innovation
Pioneered CAD/CAM implant and prosthesis materials, resulting in 3 granted patents and a 25% improvement in manufacturing efficiency, leading to enhanced clinical outcomes.
Smart Monitoring Systems
Engineered piezochromic sensors for real-time orthodontic and orthopedic monitoring, achieving 98% data accuracy and reducing treatment adjustment times by 15%.
Business Development Success
Startup Leadership
Co-founded and scaled 2 medical device startups from initial concept to successful commercialization, cultivating high-performance teams of 30+ employees and capturing 10% market share within three years.
Strategic Fundraising
Successfully secured $5M+ in Series A funding for startup expansion through compelling investor pitches, strategic partnerships, and validated market traction, leading to a 20% revenue increase year-over-year.
Project Management Excellence
Led complex, multi-disciplinary projects from conception through market launch, consistently delivering innovative solutions that advanced clinical practice and patient care standards.
1
1
Straumann N!CE
Developed biomimetic restoration systems, revolutionizing aesthetic dentistry through nature-inspired design and advanced material science.
2
2
Laser-Modified Implants
Launched laser-modified implant surfaces that enhanced osseointegration and improved clinical outcomes.
3
3
Enhanced Osseointegration
Optimized manufacturing of next-generation implants to achieve superior biological integration, reducing healing time and improving patient outcomes.
4
4
Automotive Innovation
Successfully implemented high-blocking force injector technology in automotive applications, showcasing cross-industry innovation and versatility.
Contact Me
Let's Talk!
Eager to discuss your next breakthrough project or explore strategic collaborations? I offer consulting, partnership, and interim executive leadership. Let's connect to drive innovation.
Email
brice@koungas.com
For inquiries and partnership discussions.
Phone
+41 76 221 2218
Direct line for urgent contact.
Website
www.koungas.com
Discover my full portfolio and achievements.