ACG 101 2024 March 13th 101 Biotech Corridor

Brent advises businesses ranging from emerging growth and venture-backed organizations to larger corporations with multinational operations. As a 30-year transactional lawyer, hands-on entrepreneur, founder of numerous companies and organizations, and holder of multiple patents, Brent combines exceptional legal experience, business acumen, and real-life business operational perspective. 

Biotech, life science, technology, consumer brands, sports and outdoors, manufacturing and telecommunication companies rely on Brent's advice throughout the business life cycle. Early-stage high-growth companies often depend on him as their outside general counsel while clients at all stages benefit from his vast network of contacts, which help them connect with business opportunities and resources. Whether his clients face corporate operations, product development, licensing, mergers, acquisitions, finance, or planning issues, Brent formulates solid strategies to optimize growth potential and avoid problems.

Brent is the co-founder of the consumer hydration brand Vapur and the founder and chairman of the BioScience Alliance, a nonprofit organization providing networking and resource opportunities to the life science community. He also is co-founder and chairman of the Gold Coast Executive Forum, a business organization for C-level executives. Before joining Stradling, Brent was a corporate partner at Musick Peeler & Garrett in Ventura County and a partner in Reed Smith’s Westlake Village office.

For almost 30 years, Rick Pearson has been representing tenant with their real estate needs. He has deep experience in both office, flex and industrial transactions, always representing the occupier of the space. Aside from his transactional experience, Rick is an expert with strategic planning, site selection, financial modeling and project management. He has lived and worked in the San Fernando Valley his entire career, which is where the majority of his relationships stem from.

Stephen Hatke was appointed VP of Operations for Thousand Oaks in 2020. He brings more than 25 years of experience to this role. Stephen joined Takeda nine (9) years ago in the Plasma business unit as Head of Manufacturing Fractionation in Los Angeles. He also led many key initiatives including the Baby Big Campaign, Plasma Fractionation “Factory of Future” strategy development, and the Thousand Oaks site transformation. Prior to joining Takeda, Stephen spent 15 years with Amgen in various roles including Director Manufacturing Technologies, Director of Manufacturing and Plant Engineering Manager.

Stephen holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University and an MBA from Colorado State University. In his free time, he enjoys running, golfing, and watching the Dodgers. He is also the proud father to two daughters, Savannah and Lily.

Allan Glass is the Executive Vice President of Life Sciences at NexCore Group and founder of HATCHspaces®. Leading a team of skilled professionals, Allan is committed to supporting innovators and entrepreneurs in the science and technology industries. With a track record of over $2 billion in market transactions spanning three decades, Allan has successfully revitalized underperforming assets into thriving facilities nationwide. His passion lies in assisting people and tackling challenges. To Allan, developing life science spaces goes beyond the development, he’s honored to support the scientists willing to dedicate their lives to feeding, fueling, and healing humanity.

Greg Ramirez was appointed as Camarillo City Manager in July 2020. He is responsible for the City's daily operations, implementing impactful policies and fostering meaningful collaboration with residents, stakeholders, the business community, and local, regional, state, and federal public agencies. Prior to coming to Camarillo, Greg spent 16 years as City Manager of Agoura Hills, accumulating 33 years in local government overall. His professional journey includes diverse roles ranging from positions with the League of California Cities and the City of Santa Fe Springs to formative internships with La Mirada and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission. Beyond his formal roles, Greg is committed to provide excellent services by participating in both professional and volunteer capacities for a wide range of organizations that reflect his dedication to enhancing community well-being:

• League of California Cities - City Managers Department Executive Committee
• Las Virgenes–Malibu Council of Governments
• Senior Concerns Nonprofit Board of Trustees
• Los Robles Regional Hospital and Medical Center
• Conejo/Las Virgenes Future Foundation
• Big Brothers/Sisters of Greater Los Angeles