David Feitel
Dave Feitel formed Life Science Strategies as a global consultancy focused on the intersection between life sciences, food and nutrition to help innovators in these and related spaces accelerate and achieve their development and commercialization goals.
Background
After years as a litigator in private practice and as General Counsel of an international e-commerce software company, Dave became interested in the life sciences space and joined Martek Biosciences Corporation, a highly successful publicly traded (NASDAQ) company that pioneered the development and large scale manufacture of algal-derived docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) through microbial fermentation. DHA is a key nutrient found in mother’s milk that supports brain and eye development in infants. As EVP and General Counsel, Dave negotiated long term license and supply agreements with the leading infant formula companies; led the acquisition of Martek’s consumer branded supplement division; coordinated commercialization of new product and process technologies, obtaining regulatory approvals and securing patent protection; and ultimately directed the all-cash sale of the company to DSM in excess of $1B.
After this successful exit, Dave joined Mars, Incorporated, serving as General Counsel in three diverse Mars business segments, beginning with Mars Symbioscience, the corporation’s life science platform. As Chief Counsel, Dave led clinical trial negotiations for dietary intervention studies evaluating the impact of cocoa flavanols on cardiovascular and brain health; helped secure EU Novel Food Approval for the company’s nutritional supplements; and helped develop health benefit claims for the company’s products.
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Dave then moved to Mars’ Veterinary Health Group , where he served as General Counsel for what became, during his tenure, the largest veterinary health care service provider globally. In this capacity, Dave was a key contributor in leading veterinary hospital chain acquisitions and helping to achieve antitrust clearance for these acquisitions.
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Dave then became General Counsel for Mars' Confectionery business. Here, he contributed to a strategic portfolio transformation centered on including healthier options; directed and managed the global patent and trademark teams for the segment; and supported multiple M&A initiatives.
Through this combination of experiences, Dave has gained a unique perspective on life sciences and food and nutrition, which has proven invaluable to clients seeking to accelerate their development and commercialization efforts.
Dave received both his undergraduate and law degrees from Duke University. In addition to a diverse set of private clients, David currently serves as a Network Advisor to Maryland’s Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) and as an advisor to Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures.