Dennis Sasse

Dennis Sasse

Group Finance Director F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Roche

Agenda Day 1

11:45 AM PANEL DISCUSSION: Agility, Resilience, and Adaptability: The Three Pillars for Leading Through Uncertainty?

Uncertainty in business is nothing new but today, it has become multi-dimensional and, arguably, the new world order. CFOs and senior financial executives are navigating a world defined by geopolitical tensions, market volatility, currency fluctuations, rapid technological change, and relentless operational pressures. The question is clear: What is uncertainty and how do you manage in these conditions, inspire confidence, and ensure that stores, infrastructure, and supply chains keep running smoothly?

This panel discussion, led by Dennis Sasse, Group Finance Director, Roche, explores how uncertainty differs from unpredictability and questions how disruption can create opportunities for new business models, strategic investments, and sustainable growth.

Key discussion points will include:

  • Embracing a "wait, look, and listen" approach, centred around scenario planning and stress-testing in volatile environments
  • Mastering the distinction between perceived and actual crises while communicating financial realities effectively, turning fear of uncertainty into curiosity and courage
  • How to balance short-term pressures with long-term stability and growth goals in times of instability
  • Navigating fragmented trade dynamics and regulatory shifts to maintain supply chain and capital fluidity 

Agenda Day 2

9:10 AM PLENARY KEYNOTE: Building a Financial Strategy That Thrives in Times of Uncertainty

In today's volatile economic environment, finance leaders are under increasing pressure to deliver growth, maintain profitability, and secure investment capacity, all while navigating inflationary pressures, geopolitical instability, supply chain disruption, and rising stakeholder expectations.

Balancing short-term financial performance with long-term strategic investment has become one of the defining challenges for modern finance teams. Organisations must not only protect cash flow and manage risk but also remain agile enough to seize new opportunities as markets evolve.
In this practical case study session, led by Roche's Dennis Sasse, we will learn how the global pharmaceutical leader approaches capital allocation and portfolio management to create a more resilient financial strategy in uncertain times. Attendees will gain insight into how Roche aligns financial discipline with strategic growth ambitions, while maintaining the flexibility needed to respond to changing market conditions.
Key discussion points include:
• How to optimise free cash flow to fund major strategic projects and long-term innovation
• Approaches to reducing net debt while continuing to invest in growth
• Aligning financial ambitions with broader business strategy and transformation goals
• Setting realistic targets and building plans from the bottom up to improve accountability and execution

Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Dennis.

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