Eversheds Sutherland has taken a significant step by appointing Spanish office partner Marta González as the co-head of their International Health Sciences Group. This move is set to bring a fresh perspective and strategic vision to the team. As Jacobo Martinez, the managing partner in Spain, emphasizes, “Marta Gonzalez will infuse new life and strategic thinking into the group, leveraging her international standing and her role as the head of the Committee in Spain.” The firm is confident that her leadership will enhance their market position.

About Marta González

A prominent figure in the firm, Marta González is a partner in the Litigation and Health Sciences Department based in the Madrid office and also the head of the Pharma Unit. With extensive experience, she specializes in advising companies within the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector. Her expertise lies particularly in litigation arising from patent infringement, defective drugs, and unfair competition. Before joining Eversheds Sutherland, she served as in-house counsel for renowned pharmaceutical companies like Glaxosmithkline (Spain) and Celgene International Sarl (Switzerland). This diverse background, combining pharmaceutical litigation (product liability and patents) with in-house work in commercial and regulatory matters, has equipped her with remarkable insights and expertise in the sector.

Her Work and Impact

Marta González's contributions are far-reaching. Her in-depth knowledge and experience have been instrumental in guiding companies through complex legal challenges in the healthcare industry. Her ability to handle patent infringement cases and navigate the intricacies of defective drug litigation has earned her a reputation for excellence. Her leadership within the Pharma Unit has also played a crucial role in shaping the firm's approach to serving clients in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.

Joining Forces with Elizabeth Graves

González will be joined by Elizabeth Graves, a partner in Eversheds Sutherland's UK Labor and Employment practice, who will take on the role of head of the International Health Group. Graves brings a strong background in managing the employment aspects of cross-border M&A transactions and complex litigation. Her work spans multiple sectors, including health sciences, financial services, and technology. This collaboration between González and Graves is expected to create a powerful synergy, enabling the firm to provide comprehensive services to clients across different domains.

New Healthcare Steering Committee Head

González has also been appointed as the new head of Eversheds Sutherland Spain's Healthcare Steering Committee, effective January 1, 2025. This appointment showcases the firm's dedication to growth and innovation in the healthcare sector within their Spanish office. As Marta González states, “Our aim is to offer top-quality solutions to our clients at a time when the industry is grappling with an increasingly complex regulatory environment.” Her leadership in this new role will be crucial in driving the firm's efforts in the healthcare space.

Pope Francis, on a significant Friday, addressed a gathering of dentists from the renowned University of Naples. This institution, founded as the world's first state-sponsored university, holds a special place in history. Pope Francis emphasized that its vision, promoted by its founder, is to foster universal knowledge and serve the common good.

Pope Francis Inspires Medical Community with Timeless Principles

Do No Harm

In emphasizing the first principle of "do no harm," Pope Francis highlighted its practical importance. He pointed out that it requires a realistic approach, acknowledging the pain and suffering that patients already endure. Doctors, he said, must always act in a way that alleviates pain rather than exacerbating it. This calls for a deep sense of responsibility and empathy. For example, when treating a patient with a chronic illness, a doctor must be careful not to prescribe treatments that may cause additional harm. Instead, they should focus on finding the most appropriate and gentle approach to manage the condition.

Take Care

Reflecting on the second principle of "take care," the Pope emphasized that it is a divine call. He shared a personal story from his early twenties when part of his lung had to be removed. He recounted how the touch of the nurses, who held his hand after giving injections, gave him strength. This human tenderness, he explained, goes beyond treating symptoms. It means caring for the whole person - their body, mind, and spirit. In a medical setting, this could involve taking the time to listen to a patient's concerns, providing emotional support, and ensuring their overall well-being.

Heal

Finally, Pope Francis called on medical professionals to emulate Christ, who healed every kind of illness and infirmity. He emphasized that healing is not just a profession but a sacred act. Doctors should find joy in the good they bring to those who suffer and draw on the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which describes the Church's mission as "healing every wound and reconciling humanity." For instance, in a surgical setting, a doctor not only performs the physical act of healing but also provides comfort and hope to the patient and their family.Pope Francis expressed gratitude to those present for their dedication and perseverance. He reminded them of their role as educators and healers, stating that a doctor exists to heal from harm and always care. Even if a patient's condition seems dire, he urged them to accompany the patient to the end. This shows the importance of compassion and care in the medical field, not just in treating the illness but in supporting the patient throughout their journey.