Franck Leveiller on Alcon's Unity VCS & the Future of Eye Care Innovation

Join host Russ Fordyce as he sits down with Franck Leveiller, Chief Scientific Officer and Global Head of R&D at Alcon, the 2026 BIG Innovation Awards Overall Winner.Discover how Alcon's Unity VCS console is revolutionizing operating room efficiency by combining two separate surgical systems into one modular platform with over 12 first-ever innovations. Franck shares insights on co-creating with 2,500 surgeons worldwide, leading a 2,000-person R&D organization, and addressing the global eye care capacity crisis.In this conversation, you'll learn:How Alcon developed the Unity VCS through extensive surgeon collaborationThe eye care crisis: demand for cataract procedures will triple by 2050Why patient-centered innovation requires discipline, talent, and heartAlcon's approach to balancing internal innovation with strategic partnershipsWhat it takes to maintain scientific rigor while scaling breakthrough productsWhether you're in product development, healthcare innovation, or leadership, Franck's approach to human-centered R&D offers valuable lessons on creating meaningful impact.Subscribe to Winner's Circle for conversations with business leaders driving real innovation.SHOW NOTESGuest: Franck Leveiller, Chief Scientific Officer & Global Head of R&D, AlconAbout Alcon:$10 billion revenue companyGlobal leader in eye careServes 140+ countries2026 BIG Innovation Awards Overall WinnerKey Topics Discussed:Unity VCS Console Innovation [2:15]The Global Eye Care Capacity Crisis [6:30]Co-Creation Model with 2,500+ Surgeons [9:13]Leading 2,000-Person R&D Organization [22:03]Balancing Internal & External Innovation [24:29]Patient-Centered Product Development PhilosophyFeatured Innovation: Alcon Unity VCSFirst console combining front-of-eye and back-of-eye procedures12+ first-ever innovationsImproved workflow efficiency for surgeons and OR nursesPhysiological intraocular pressure reduces patient painModular design for rapid maintenanceKey Statistics Mentioned:1.6 billion patients suffer from dry eye1.8 billion people affected by presbyopiaCurrent demand: 30 million cataract procedures annuallyBy 2050: 100 million procedures needed (projected)U.S. surgeon workforce declining 12% by 203590% of people need cataract surgery after age 60https://www.bintelligence.com/newsTAGS/KEYWORDSInnovation, Healthcare, Medical Devices, R&D Leadership, Product Development, Eye Care, Alcon, Business Awards, BIG Innovation AwardsEPISODE CHAPTERS/TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Introduction & Welcome 0:11 - Meet Franck Leveiller, Alcon's Chief Scientific Officer 2:15 - What is the Unity VCS Console? 6:30 - The Eye Care Capacity Crisis 9:13 - Co-Creating with 2,500 Surgeons Worldwide 15:39 - Managing Portfolio of Innovation Projects 22:03 - Leading a 2,000-Person R&D Organization 24:29 - External Innovation & Startup Partnerships 26:35 - The Importance of Recognition & People 27:33 - Closing Thoughts