Join host Russ Fordyce as he sits down with Franck Leveiller, Chief Scientific Officer and Global Head of R&D at Alcon, the 2026 BIG Innovation Awards Overall Winner.

Discover how Alcon's Unity VCS console is revolutionizing operating room efficiency by combining two separate surgical systems into one modular platform with over 12 first-ever innovations. Franck shares insights on co-creating with 2,500 surgeons worldwide, leading a 2,000-person R&D organization, and addressing the global eye care capacity crisis.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

• How Alcon developed the Unity VCS through extensive surgeon collaboration
• The eye care crisis: demand for cataract procedures will triple by 2050
• Why patient-centered innovation requires discipline, talent, and heart
• Alcon's approach to balancing internal innovation with strategic partnerships
• What it takes to maintain scientific rigor while scaling breakthrough products

Whether you're in product development, healthcare innovation, or leadership, Franck's approach to human-centered R&D offers valuable lessons on creating meaningful impact.

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Guest: Franck Leveiller, Chief Scientific Officer & Global Head of R&D, Alcon

About Alcon:

• $10 billion revenue company
• Global leader in eye care
• Serves 140+ countries
• 2026 BIG Innovation Awards Overall Winner

Key Topics Discussed:

• Unity VCS Console Innovation [2:15]
• The Global Eye Care Capacity Crisis [6:30]
• Co-Creation Model with 2,500+ Surgeons [9:13]
• Leading 2,000-Person R&D Organization [22:03]
• Balancing Internal & External Innovation [24:29]
• Patient-Centered Product Development Philosophy

Featured Innovation: Alcon Unity VCS

• First console combining front-of-eye and back-of-eye procedures
• 12+ first-ever innovations
• Improved workflow efficiency for surgeons and OR nurses
• Physiological intraocular pressure reduces patient pain
• Modular design for rapid maintenance

Key Statistics Mentioned:

• 1.6 billion patients suffer from dry eye
• 1.8 billion people affected by presbyopia
• Current demand: 30 million cataract procedures annually
• By 2050: 100 million procedures needed (projected)
• U.S. surgeon workforce declining 12% by 2035
• 90% of people need cataract surgery after age 60

https://www.bintelligence.com/news

Innovation, Healthcare, Medical Devices, R&D Leadership, Product Development, Eye Care, Alcon, Business Awards, BIG Innovation Awards

0:00 - Introduction & Welcome
0:11 - Meet Franck Leveiller, Alcon's Chief Scientific Officer 2:15 - What is the Unity VCS Console?
6:30 - The Eye Care Capacity Crisis
9:13 - Co-Creating with 2,500 Surgeons Worldwide
15:39 - Managing Portfolio of Innovation Projects
22:03 - Leading a 2,000-Person R&D Organization
24:29 - External Innovation & Startup Partnerships
26:35 - The Importance of Recognition & People
27:33 - Closing Thoughts