Interactive Breakout Discussions

TABLE 1: Managing Conflict and Escalations Constructively
Conflict is inevitable in alliances, but how it is managed can define the long-term success or failure of a partnership. Constructive escalation requires skillful navigation of complex interpersonal dynamics, differing organizational cultures, and competing priorities. This discussion will focus on practical approaches for turning conflict into collaboration and ensuring escalations build trust rather than damage it.

• Recognizing early warning signs of conflict and addressing them proactively
• Developing consistent processes for escalation that maintain transparency and partnership alignment
• Role of the Alliance Manager as facilitator, mediator, and trusted bridge between partners

TABLE 2: Negotiating Collaboration Contract Amendments
As alliances evolve, contracts often need to adapt to reflect changes in scope, responsibilities, or strategic priorities. Managing these amendments effectively requires balancing legal precision with partnership sensitivity. This roundtable will explore best practices for navigating contract changes while protecting value and maintaining trust between partners.

• Recognizing when an amendment is necessary versus when operational flexibility can suffice
• Negotiation tactics that preserve goodwill while ensuring clarity and compliance
• Common pitfalls in contract amendments and how to avoid them

TABLE 3: Navigating Alliance Wind Down and Termination
There are many reasons why a company may want to terminate an alliance. Whatever the reason, the parties must understand and follow the correct procedures for termination. Join this discussion to explore best practices for managing this process.

• Establishing a clear exit strategy and governance plan
• Strategies to steer through an alliance termination process preserve trust, and maintain reputational integrity for future collaborations
• Considerations for transition planning

TABLE 4: Stakeholder Engagement: Elevating the AM/Senior Executive Relationship
Building trusted advisor relationships between Alliance Managers (AMs) and senior executives is critical to ensuring alignment, trust, and strategic impact within partnerships. Senior executives rely on AMs to provide insights, navigate complex challenges, and deliver recommendations that drive decision-making. By elevating these relationships, AMs can position themselves as strategic partners rather than operational intermediaries.

• Skills, knowledge, and behaviors required to build credibility and influence with senior executives
• Addressing common hurdles such as misaligned expectations, differing priorities, and maintaining trust under pressure
• Approaches to foster deeper collaboration and improved communication

TABLE 5: Leveraging AI to Improve Alliance Management Productivity
AI is being leveraged across many industries to improve efficiencies and enhance productivity.  How best can it be used to improve Alliance Management? Join this roundtable to explore how AI and data analytics can be used to enhance alliance performance and value.

• In what areas of Alliance Management can AI be leveraged to create value?
• What are some of the challenges and implications of AI use to be aware of?
• Exchange experiences and best practices

TABLE 6: Navigating China Partnerships: Opportunity, Risk, and Relationship Building
China remains a critical market and collaboration hub for global biopharma, offering both immense opportunity and unique complexity. From evolving regulatory environments to cultural and communication nuances, successful partnership management in China requires adaptability and awareness. This roundtable will examine strategies for building productive, compliant, and culturally attuned alliances.

• Key trends shaping biopharma partnering and co-development in China
• Understanding regulatory, data-sharing, and operational challenges unique to the region
• Bridging cultural differences in governance, communication, and decision-making styles