A new chapter for TFS: Nordic expertise, global reach, and a digital future
TFS HealthScience is entering a new phase under the leadership of recently appointed CEO Markus Granlund. With strong Nordic foundations, the global contract research organisation is refining its operational focus, enhancing its digital capabilities, and extending its reach across key international markets. The transition comes at a crucial time, as sponsors increasingly seek partners with cutting-edge expertise and the ability to deliver at a global scale. BioStock got the chance to sit down with Granlund.
With over two decades of experience in large-scale clinical research, CRO TFS HealthScience has contributed to more than 1,000 clinical trials spanning upwards of 175 different medical conditions. The company holds expertise in scientifically demanding areas such as neuroscience, oncology, ophthalmology, and dermatology. In February this year, a new chapter began when Markus Granlund took on the role of CEO.
The change in leadership comes at inflection point for TFS and is a chance to consolidate strengths whilst adapting to the shifting demands of a sector that is changing rapidly.
– We are building on our existing strengths but also leaning into what the future demands – flexibility, partnership, and speed, Granlund says.
Nordic momentum fuels global ambition
TFS traces its roots to Lund, Sweden, where its headquarters are still located. As the Nordic countries continue to gain recognition for their high-value clinical research, they remain a strong foothold for TFS. Granlund highlights Denmark as an example of an ecosystem that has adapted to modern expectations, that is flexible and works at speed. In fact, Denmark leads Europe in clinical trials per capita, supported by a streamlined regulatory framework and robust digital infrastructure. This progress has encouraged neighbouring countries, such as Sweden, to strengthen their own competitiveness by improving trial start-up times and patient recruitment pathways.
But challenges remain. In 2023, Sweden saw a sharp decline in new clinical trial applications – just 216 were submitted that year, marking a record low. In response, a cross-sector national initiative was launched to help rebuild the country’s appeal to international sponsors. Granlund points to the need for increased speed in the Swedish system and states that TFS aims to be a part of improving the situation by bringing expertise and swiftness to its sponsors.
– Our Nordic roots are a significant asset when working with Nordic sponsors. We understand the regulatory environment, we understand the systems and the science, and we know how to scale them globally, Granlund says. TFS is in a position to streamline trial execution, shorten timelines, and enable early international expansion. This applies globally, but perhaps even more so in the Nordics.
Global delivery, Nordic foundations
From its foundation in Sweden nearly 30 years ago, TFS has grown into a truly international organisation with operations in over 40 countries. The company supports sponsors in complex therapeutic areas where trials are often both scientifically and logistically demanding. This dual identity – regional expertise combined with international reach –positions TFS as a natural partner for Nordic biotech companies pursuing global growth.
Granlund emphasises TFS strong international position.
– During our 29 years, we have built strong relationships with clinical sites and regulatory authorities, we also have a network of more than 60,000 experts. All this we use to give our sponsors the best possible service. We are currently guiding sponsors through expansion into the United States, Central Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, while ensuring that trial quality and regulatory compliance remain firmly in place.
Data and digital shaping future operations
As for the life science space as a hole, the landscape for CROs is changing and Granlund sees digitalisation and AI as the biggest disruption facing the industry at this moment.
– Our whole sector is about to change, he says.
For Granlund the development is exciting and brings the opportunity to improve the outcome for sponsors, and in the long-term, patients. One of his initial focuses as CEO is to lead the adaption of TFS’ digital infrastructure to keep pace. The change has already begun, in neuroscience, for instance, the company is employing AI-supported feasibility tools and drawing on Nordic real-world data to optimise study design and enhance recruitment efficiency.
– We are looking at how digitalisation can increase our technological sophistication in all our operations, internally, as well as in terms of working with our sponsors, Granlund states.
– In the end, digitalisation is there to serve our goals. It will enable better and faster science so that we can grow our business and help create solutions for our sponsors, and, ultimately, patients who need treatments.
New leadership, renewed focus
The appointment of Markus Granlund as CEO signals a new chapter for TFS. With a background in international business and experience leading operational transformation, he brings both continuity and a fresh perspective. While the company’s core mission remains unchanged, its execution is evolving to match the pace and complexity of the current clinical landscape.
Less than two months into the role, Granlund’s priority is to listen to TFS’ sponsors. He has already had countless meetings with sponsors and wants to thoroughly understand their needs so that TFS can become an even better partner – well suited for the modern clinical trial landscape.
A strive for constant improvement
When asked what drew him to TFS, Granlund points to two factors: its people and its purpose.
– I was immediately struck by the passion and expertise of my TFS colleagues. My job is to facilitate their work, enabling us to improve our processes and deliver better results on every level. We are all here to help bring better therapies to patients, he says, personally motivated by a want to improve patient outcomes.
– What it all boils down to for me is that I want to use my time to make things better, and with TFS, I have a very real opportunity to contribute to something positive.
The content of BioStock’s news and analyses is independent but the work of BioStock is to a certain degree financed by life science companies. The above article concerns a company from which BioStock has received financing.