Animal Health Corridor presents 2023 Iron Paw Award

Photo courtesy of Kansas City Animal Health Summit

Fabian Kausche, DVM, MS is the 2023 winner of the Iron Paw Award.

The Kansas City Animal Health Corridor (AHC) presented the 2023 Iron Paw Award to Fabian Kausche, DVM, MS, who spent much of his career in research and development as well as serving as a mentor in the veterinary industry. Kausche accepted the award on stage Monday at the Midland Theatre in Kansas City, Missouri, during the AHC’s Animal Health Summit.

“Fabian, it’s obvious from the many nominations that you’ve created a very strong legacy of developing and supporting colleagues who are giving back to many in the industry. You deserve this award,” said Caroline Belmont, AHC Advisory Board Chair, and vice president of US global innovation and US regulatory affairs for Boehringer Ingelheim, during the award presentation.

Her comments were followed by a video with 7 industry colleagues providing testimony to his work and impact on the industry. Family members also appeared in the video to speak to his passion and congratulate him. “I am deeply honored,” said Kausche, in response, while thanking the AHC and his nominators.

The Iron Paw award recognizes an individual who has provided a significant impact or contribution to the global animal health industry, according to the AHC.¹ “This is our industry’s highest individual achievement,” said Belmont.

The winner may have a background in research, academia, industry or government, although titles and years of service do not determine eligibility. The AHC Board or a subcommittee appointed by the board selects the award’s winner each year.¹

In awarding Kausche the Iron Paw, the AHC noted his “passion for product innovation, attention to detail, and intrinsic understanding of animal wellness and care” that led to his career achievements. Additionally, in his leadership roles, he focused on the wellness of employees and the organizations he worked for, helping to drive company culture, diversity, inclusion, and transparency.¹

“Fabian, you are an inspiration and you have made a lasting impact on so many,” said Kimberly Young, president of the AHC, during the award presentation.

A native of Germany, Kausche began his career in Western Europe, working for The Upjohn Company in a clinical and regulatory role. After moving to Michigan, where Upjohn had its headquarters, Kausche later took a leadership role in research and development for Novartis Animal Health. His career eventually led to Merial, where he was the global head of research and development and participated in the company’s merger with Boehringer Ingelheim.

“Witnessing the industry’s evolution from mostly production animal focused companies to the vibrant, ever-changing environment we have today with publicly traded companies hundreds of start-ups has been truly remarkable,” said Kausche, in his acceptance speech.

Throughout his career, Kausche has used his passion for coaching and mentoring to help guide the next generation of veterinary professionals. In addition to mentoring individuals, Kausche has worked as a member of the diversity and inclusion councils for companies that include Novartis Animal Health, Merial, and Boehringer Ingelheim.¹

Retired in 2019, Kausche continues to be active in the veterinary industry, serving on boards for companies around the world that are researching and developing new treatments for animals. He also serves as an adviser for the Centre for Vaccinology and Regenerative Medicine at the Royal Veterinary College in London, England; and started his own business, FK Consulting LLC in Atlanta, Georgia.¹ The business “specializes in supporting animal health companies and start-ups, and product innovation strategies,” said Young.

Reference

2023 Iron Paw Award recipient. KC Animal Health Corridor. Accessed August 28, 2023. https://kcanimalhealth.thinkkc.com/events/kcahc-iron-paw-award