Frank Van Gelder

Frank is a senior strategist at the intersection of global healthcare, life sciences supply chains, and academic research, with a career spanning more than three decades. His work focuses on strengthening critical pharmaceutical and MedTech supply chains, integrating digital and AI-driven health applications, and advancing education at the nexus of industry and academia.

He began his career in 1989 in critical patient care at one of Europe’s largest university hospitals, where he developed deep expertise in organ, tissue, and cell transplantation, as well as intensive care medicine. This clinical foundation continues to inform his strategic perspective on healthcare systems and precision therapy logistics.

Over the past 15 years, Frank has emerged as a leading voice in life sciences supply chain strategy, with a particular emphasis on resilient, high-quality, and sustainable pharmaceutical logistics. His work increasingly addresses global vulnerabilities, geopolitical disruptions, and the transformation of supply networks that underpin access to essential and life-saving therapies.

A prolific academic contributor, Frank has authored more than 250 peer-reviewed scientific publications and over 30 international industry white papers. He is a frequent keynote speaker and commentator, with more than 400 international lectures and regular contributions to global media on healthcare and supply chain resilience. His academic engagement is further reflected in his ongoing pursuit of advanced studies and research both in medical and supply chain research. 

Frank holds several executive and academic appointments. He is actively involved in teaching and program development at the University of Antwerp and serves on the business faculty and lecturer of Antwerp Management School and Thomas More University of Applied Sciences. He is a board member of the Advisory Board on Global Supply Chain at Antwerp Management School and contributes to the at.las ATMP Supply Chain Excellence Centre. He is also co-founder and program co-director of the International Pharma Logistics Masterclass, “Where Business Meets Academics” and the Pharma Logistics Winter University, both designed to bridge strategic industry insights with academic rigor.

Beyond his professional work, Frank draws inspiration from astronomy and astrophysics, pursuits he actively studies alongside outdoor activities such as mountain biking and culinary exploration. He is a strong advocate for interdisciplinary thinking, diversity of perspectives, and the role of implementation science and knowledge-sharing as catalysts for meaningful innovation and sustainable development.

CEO, Mediconed Consultancy

Secretary General Pharma.Aero

Member of the Advisory Board of Global Supply Chain AMS

Faculty Antwerp Management School and University of Antwerp

Faculty University of Applied Sciences Leuven and Thomas More Academy