AKAMPION - Key Persons

Dr. Ludger Wess has long-standing experience in explaining complex technologies and business models to a broad spectrum of target audiences. Being a member of the National Association of Science Writers (NASW), USA, he has been one of the first journalists in Europe to cover the emerging biotechnology and high-tech industries and has expanded his network ever since. His experience ranges from the healthcare industry to chemistry, nanotechnology and related fields. For more than 20 years, he has written on these topics for general interest magazines, science and business papers, and specialized trade media. Besides, he has authored radio features and co-authored films and TV documentaries. Since founding akampion in 2006, Ludger has guided executives of numerous healthcare and technology companies in messaging, media outreach and increasing their visibility among investors and partners. Moreover, he has provided media trainings and crisis communications. Prior to founding akampion, Ludger has been Senior Editor, Europe, at BioCentury and Editor, Science & Technology, at Financial Times Deutschland (FTD) and was responsible for analysis, commentaries and the development of story ideas. Previously, he worked as a freelance science writer and has written numerous articles covering science, technology and commercial topics. His articles appeared in magazines such as Der Stern, Die Woche, Weltwoche and Die Zeit as well as in BioWorld, BioTech International, Chemistry & Industry, L'Usine Nouvelle, The Scientist, etc. Ludger holds a degree in biology and chemistry (University of Muenster) and a PhD in social studies of sciences (U. of Bremen, Germany). His mission is to contribute to a better understanding of science and technology - important human endeavors with the potential to make the world a better and more pleasant place to live in.

Ines-Regina Buth has a strong track record in advising both private and public companies in the healthcare and high-tech sectors, ranging from small start-ups to blue chip companies. During her career, she has successfully designed and implemented targeted communication plans for numerous corporate transactions (corporate partnerships, licensing deals, financing rounds, M&A, public listings, due diligences) and advised executives on reputation management, crisis communications and improving their day-to-day communication activities. She was actively involved in Schering's listing on New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Micromet´s reverse merger into a NASDAQ-listed company. Ines is passionate about scientific writing and storytelling and creating powerful organizational narratives for innovation- and science-driven companies. Over the years, she has built an excellent industry network covering executives, investors, advisors, reporters and other opinion leaders. Prior to founding akampion in late 2006, Ines has held various senior positions in investor relations and corporate communications, including Head of Investor Relations at Micromet AG / Inc. (now Amgen), Head of Investor Relations at LION bioscience AG and IR/PR positions with two global blue-chip companies (DaimlerChrysler AG, Schering AG - now Bayer Healthcare). She gained her first professional experience working in the corporate communications department at MLP AG and at Edelman Public Relations (corporate and financial communications). Ines holds a Master's Degree in Communication Management and North American Studies (Free University of Berlin, Germany) and is a Certified Biotechnology Analyst, CBA (Society of Investment Professionals in Germany, DVFA). She has also completed a certified training in speech writing (Akademie fuer Redenschreiben, run by Dr. Thilo von Trotha and Minita von Gagern).