Our vision

Scientific and technological advances have created a new opportunity to address the complex interconnections of severe diseases much more effectively.

We call this opportunity ‘the next generation biopharma leader’. And we are rapidly bringing it to life, it is about:

Connecting science in new ways

By integrating biology (bio) and chemistry (pharma), we can gain much deeper insights into disease pathways, including the complexities of severe diseases, as well as producing more potent, cost-effective drugs.

• The unique combination of expertise in large, antibody-based molecules and small, chemically-derived  molecules places us in a strong position to realise this ambition.
• Cimzia®, our most advanced NBE, targeted at Crohn’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis, is one of the first fruits of this synergy of biology and chemistry.

Connecting people

In a knowledge- and ideas-based industry like ours, human capital is the lifeblood of success. To unlock the creative potential of our global team of over 10,000 staff and our 30-plus partners, we are creating a networked, cross-functional organisation.

• UCB People, an innovative intranet tool, links our knowledge and skills. Our virtual R&D collaboration platform, based on the principles of Wikipedia, is another example.
• Multi-disciplinary teams are working on all development projects, including members of R&D, supply chain and sales, as well as partners and patients...

Connecting patients

Severe diseases, such as Crohn's and Parkinson's, tend to be "silent diseases" – sufferers are often socially stigmatised and reluctant to share their experiences and insights. To overcome this problem, we are creating novel and personal ways for patients and their families to connect, virtually and live, with each other, us, our partners and opinion formers.

• The "CrohnsandMe.com" community is one such example
• The sponsorship of a Pearl Jam concert demonstrates our commitment to raise awareness of severe diseases
• Patients and their families are regularly invited to discuss the daily realities of their diseases with our staff, partners and key opinion informers - providing invaluable insights.