Martin Fensch

Research, healthcare policy and business – the topics that Martin Fensch communicates every day on behalf of the pharmaceutical company Pfizer vary widely. And yet, the head of corporate communications is very confident and always maintains a steady overview of the issues: in fact, he was just named by medical and science journalists as the best research press spokesperson in the “Industry and Other Companies” category. In this interview with Martin Fensch, he explains what the award means to him and what the trick is to communicating complex scientific matters.

Mr. Fensch, how do you bring business and science together in your work?

M.F.: At a research pharmaceutical manufacturer such as ours, science, medicine and business are directly and inseparably linked. On the one hand, it’s all about creating proven and innovative medication for people and animals. On the other hand, there are still far too many diseases that are not treated sufficiently or even at all. This is exactly where we want to make ourselves useful and create new treatment options. This approach also benefits the company itself.

When communicating scientific themes, research findings and the overall work of such a large company as Pfizer, what does it all come down to?

M.F.: It’s all about understanding the needs of the individuals you’re talking to and about trying as best you can to fulfill these needs. This is not always easy, seeing as we communicate with groups of experts, public journalists and the public in general about a wide variety of topics: cancer, arthritis, immunization, pain, vitamins, healthcare policy, research, social responsibilities, the economy, locations, production, etc. The things that always help are understanding, relevance, believability, rapid responses to requests and information that people like to read because it gets to the point.

Science journalists recently named you the best research press spokesperson in the category “Industry and Other Companies.” What does this accolade mean to you?

M.F.: It was a pleasant surprise and I was delighted – it was indeed a very nice acknowledgement of the work we do. Pharmaceuticals is a complex industry. The fact that we are able to lead the pack in comparison to other industries, such as electronics or automobiles, is truly great news. My thanks go especially to my team, all of whom are very dedicated and professional and boast an extraordinary array of expertise.

What do you like about Berlin as a place to live and work?

M.F.: Berlin has a very unique charm. It also has a distinctive international flair and a great deal of culture and diversity. At the same time, Berlin has a lot of free space and it’s more relaxed than other major cities. Life in Berlin and its environs is just plain fun. The city is also a great environment to work in. As a research-oriented pharmaceutical manufacturer, we have direct access to many of our partners in the healthcare industry, such as hospitals and university research institutes.

What makes Berlin such a unique location for research and business in Germany?

M.F.: Berlin’s diversity makes it entirely unique as a location for business and science. The mix is what makes it so special. At the same time, Berlin’s flexibility and openness provides fruitful ground for start-ups in all sectors and also attracts innovative research and talent to the city.

What cooperation opportunities does Berlin offer a company like Pfizer?

M.F.: We cooperate with research institutes and hospitals, such as the Charité, and pave the way for new medical advances. At the same time, we have a lively exchange with Berlin-based institutions and companies – this makes up an important component of our work.

A look at the future: How do you see Berlin developing in the coming years as a location for science and business?

M.F.: From the perspective of the healthcare industry, I am entirely convinced that Berlin will establish itself as a leading European healthcare metropolis.  This is a very exciting development for all life-science companies in Berlin.

What personal goals have you set for yourself in terms of your work here?

M.F.: Medical advances provide good answers to urgent questions relating to demographic development. The population is getting older, which is a great thing and one of the biggest achievements of our society. At the same time, however, the number of people suffering from cancer and dementia, among other things, will increase. I hope that I will have many opportunities to report on new treatment options and opportunities.

About Martin Fensch:

Martin Fensch grew up in the Rhineland. He studied in Berlin and was active as a journalist in Germany and abroad. He also worked at both Daimler and Toll Collect. In 2005, Fensch moved to Karlsruhe to work at the German headquarters of the American pharmaceutical company Pfizer. In 2007, he took over that company’s corporate communications. In 2008, when Pfizer relocated its headquarters to Berlin, Fensch also made the move to the capital. Since 2009, he has been additionally responsible for media communications for the oncology business unit in Europe.