Laurent Grandidier’s determined streak was apparent from an early age, when he took up rowing – going on to participate in two world championships. Following a successful academic career, including an MBA from INSEAD, Grandidier started his professional activities at Procter&Gamble as project leader.
Grandidier’s expertise in medical devices results from working in leadership positions for companies including Endosense, as vice president for sales, marketing and global business development, Guidant/Boston Scientific, as international marketing manager, and Teleflex Medical, as managing director. He also has a strong entrepreneurial spirit and co-founded one of France’s first social venture funds, Investir&+, where he currently sits on the supervisory board.
In 2011, Grandidier joined Xeltis, a medical device start-up aiming to improve standards of care in heart valve replacement and vascular surgery. The company is currently developing the first ever bioabsorbable cardiovascular valves and vessels. Under his leadership, Xeltis developed from a small university spin-off to one of the most attractive start-up companies in one of the most dynamic sectors within the medtech industry. Passionate about helping patients with heart conditions, Grandidier is also a board member of the Frederique Constant Foundation, supporting sustainable paediatric clinical and research centres for the treatment of children and young people with heart diseases, in countries where such facilities are unavailable.
The executive gives three tips about what makes a successful start-up: he believes that its team and teamwork are the most valuable assets in a company, and constantly strives to engage with the people he works with. Grandidier also advocates the importance of developing and maintaining strong networks across different industries and communities. Finally, he states that entrepreneurship requires patience and taking on board shareholders who are ready to fund a company beyond its initial plan.