Thank you, Mike Watson

Dear friends, colleagues, and the FIND community,

We are deeply saddened to share the news that our esteemed Board member, colleague, and friend, Dr Michael Watson, passed away suddenly on Saturday, 27 August 2022. He is survived by his wife, Helen, and their children, Oliver and Evelyn, who are closely in our thoughts at this time.

Mike has been a force for better health for the world throughout his long career. A widely respected Board member and executive for a host of biotech and global vaccine companies, including a stint as President of the Moderna vaccines division, Mike has been an integral part of our FIND family through his service as a Board member for more than 8 years. His insight, expertise, and calm, unstoppable energy helped guide FIND as we navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. His experience developing and licensing trail-blazing vaccines for cervical cancer and paediatric conditions has been invaluable for women and children everywhere, as well as to FIND and our own recent work on women’s and children’s health.

His dedication to our staff was unwavering, as long-time Chair of our Remuneration Committee, and through his close partnership with our Leadership team during our transition to a new CEO last year.

A physician by training, Mike exemplified a commitment to the patients and health professionals we serve. He wore his passion for advancing equality in healthcare on his sleeve. His good humour was second to none. As much as we valued and will miss his strategic insights and managerial skills for our work, we will miss the wonderful man, entertaining traveling companion, and dear friend even more.

Mark and Bill