Molecule-to-Medicine: Improving BioTech Incubator Collaboration, Traction and Agility

M:M Bio, a collaborative ecosystem of oncology and immuno-oncology biotechs based in Oxford, wanted to revolutionize its approach to drug discovery and R&D. With companies ranging from early-stage discovery to clinical development, the organization needed to improve how teams worked together, manage long lead times, and pivot quickly based on experimental data—all while keeping their shared vision of accelerating breakthrough therapies.

When/Why

M:M Bio was embarking on several strategic initiatives, including accelerating small molecule development, streamlining the transition from laboratory discovery to clinical trials, and establishing a transparent, collaborative culture across its portfolio companies. The inherent uncertainties in drug discovery and the pressure to deliver life-changing treatments faster made adopting a new way of working critical. The urgency increased as the competitive landscape in oncology and immuno-oncology demanded rapid iteration and robust risk management.

Options

Before embracing Agile, M:M Bio relied on traditional project management approaches, often leading to siloed communication and slow feedback loops. These methods struggled under the weight of complex research timelines, external manufacturing dependencies, and the unpredictable nature of scientific experimentation. Recognizing the need for a more adaptive and collaborative framework, M:M Bio chose to work with me based on my focus on helping leaders apply Professional Scrum and Agile principles beyond in complex multidisciplinary environments - way beyond the traditional IT environments where agile was developed.

Success

M:M Bio set its sights on faster, more reliable decision-making and improved collaboration across R&D, clinical operations, and external partners. Early successes included streamlined project kick-offs, more effective risk management, and visible progress on key drug discovery milestones. By introducing Agile practices, teams became more proactive, leading to:

• Reduced rework and delays through early identification of risks.

• Enhanced transparency with shared Kanban boards and iterative feedback.

• A cultural shift that empowered scientists to experiment, learn, and adapt rapidly.

Path to Success

M:M Bio chose to tackle its complex R&D challenges by adopting a hybrid Agile approach that blended traditional planning with Scrum and Kanban practices. The engagement began with a strategic workshop I led, where cross-functional teams—including scientists, project managers, and operational leaders—learned how to align Agile principles with the unique demands of drug discovery. The journey included:

• Foundational Training: Establishing a common language around Agile to ensure all teams understood the new methodologies.

• Pilot Projects: Launching multiple pilots across different companies and project types to refine the approach.

• Iterative Improvement: Using regular retrospectives to adjust workflows and balance the need for upfront planning with the benefits of Agile execution.

How We Helped

Yuval Yeret’s role was pivotal in transforming M:M Bio’s operations. His expertise in Agile transformation provided the framework and support we needed

Here’s what we focused on:

• Train Leaders and Teams: Deliver comprehensive workshops that introduced the Agile mindset and practical tools tailored for the biotech environment.

• Facilitate Collaboration: Establish shared practices and communication channels, such as Kanban boards, that bridged gaps between diverse teams.

• Support Continuous Adaptation: Guide initial cycles and pilots, enabling teams to inspect their progress, adapt quickly, and continuously improve their processes.

By reimagining how M:M Bio managed its R&D projects, Yuval helped create an environment where innovation, transparency, and collaboration drive success in the race to develop life-saving oncology treatments.

To learn more about this unique case study and how I helped, Check out this Scrum.org podcast episode.

[buzzsprout episode=‘14788268’ player=‘true’]

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