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Our 2025 MSLA Conference provides a unique platform for Medical Science Liaisons and aspiring Medical Affairs professionals to explore how their role is evolving - and how to lead with confidence in today’s NHS landscape.
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With increasing NHS transformation, evolving compliance expectations, and pressure to demonstrate strategic value, this conference will help you understand what’s changing - and how to stay one step ahead in Medical Affairs.
Across this highly focused day, you’ll explore how the role of the MSL is evolving across the UK, what’s changing in NHS collaboration and how to remain compliant while operating strategically.
Our expert line-up of NHS leaders, industry strategists, compliance experts and career coaches will offer real-world insight into how the MSL role is shifting. You’ll explore practical ways to increase your scientific impact, build more collaborative partnerships with the NHS, and take control of your professional growth.
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your stakeholder engagement, expand your impact or power up your professional growth, this event will help you connect the dots and make it happen.
Key Learnings
Understand how the NHS landscape is shifting and what this means for MSLs and medical teams
Learn what NHS stakeholders expect from MSLs and how to engage them effectively
Discover how to build a rewarding medical career with insight, resilience and ambition
Explore how the MSL role is becoming more strategic, proactive and aligned with industry value
Gain clarity on the ABPI Code’s support (and limits) for the modern medical role
Hear first-hand from leaders, coaches, compliance experts and Director of Medical Affairs on what success looks like today
Agenda
9:00 - 10:00
Arrivals
10:00 - 10:15
Ian Chamberlain
Welcome and Introductions
10:15 - 11:00
Scott McKenzie
Inside the Changing NHS: Why MSLs hold the key to smarter collaboration The NHS is undergoing rapid change and MSLs are uniquely placed to respond. Scott McKenzie will highlight what NHS stakeholders are prioritising, unpack the 10-Year Plan and show how MSLs can align with real NHS challenges. Scott will help you sharpen your strategic impact and add genuine value in stakeholder engagement. Key Learnings: • Understand the key drivers behind NHS change and reform • Explore what NHS stakeholders expect from industry partners • Learn how the MSL role can support smarter, collaborative conversations • Discover how to align your medical work with NHS strategic priorities • Gain confidence in discussing NHS structures, pressures and future direction
11:00 - 11:15
Break
11:15 - 12:00
David Kelaher
The Evolving Role of the MSL Across the UK The MSL role is evolving fast. Drawing on UK-wide data, David Kelaher explores how MSLs are moving from scientific communicators to strategic partners, with greater responsibilities, broader stakeholder engagement and growing visibility in cross-functional teams. Discover how to adapt your skills to meet tomorrow’s expectations. Key Learnings: • Understand national trends in how the MSL role is evolving • Learn about the move toward primary contact and hybrid responsibilities • Explore how MSLs are being positioned as strategic contributors • Discover how organisations are redefining the expectations of Medical Affairs roles • Identify how your current skillset compares with emerging role demands
12:00 - 12:15
Morning Wrap-up & Summary
Ian Chamberlain
12:15 - 13:00
Lunch and Networking
13:00 - 13:45
Stuart Hill
The Modern MSL: Driving strategy, shaping science Today’s MSL, whether you are new to the role or experienced, must think strategically. Stuart Hill will show how MSLs can move beyond a reactive role to become scientific leaders; shaping strategy, evidence generation and therapy area direction. This session will equip you to adopt a leadership mindset and amplify your influence. Key Learnings: • Understand why strategy is core to every MSL role • Explore the mindset shift from delivery to leadership • Learn how to contribute to internal strategic decision-making • Discover how to shape scientific narratives and evidence plans • Gain confidence in owning your influence, regardless of seniority
13:45 - 14:30
Jayne Packham
Compliance in Context: Does The ABPI Code support today’s MSL role? Compliance is at the core of every MSL role, but The ABPI Code can feel complex. To enable you to act with confidence in every interaction, Jayne Packham will clarify what the Code allows, address grey areas and share practical ways to work effectively within compliance boundaries. Key Learnings: • Understand how The ABPI Code applies specifically to MSLs • Explore common grey areas in engagement and communication • Learn practical ways to work effectively within compliance boundaries • Identify what’s changed in recent ABPI Code updates • Gain tools to navigate tricky scenarios with confidence
14:30 - 15:15
Polly Appleby & Helen Bessell
Power Up Your Career: Own it with insight Your career is more than a ladder - it’s about impact, energy and choice. Using insights from the GC Index®, Polly Appleby and Helen Bessell will help you reflect on how you create impact, what energises or drains you and how to align your strengths with your career goals. Gain clarity, purpose and practical tools to power up your professional journey. Key Learnings: • Understand how different people create impact: why that matters for team performance and career fulfilment • Gain insight into your personal contribution style using the GC Index® • Learn how self-awareness can support more intentional career choices • Discover ways to align your strengths and passions with your next professional move • Leave with practical tools and language to articulate your value and career direction
15:30 - 16:15
All Speakers & Paul Riley
Panel Session
15:15 - 15:30
Break
16:15 - 16:30
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Guest Speakers
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