Get to Know Mark Leddy: How Photon Therapeutics Will Revolutionise Treatment of Corneal Infections’
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Dr Mark Leddy is CEO of Photon Therapeutics, a multinational collaborative company which draws on the expertise of pioneers in ophthalmic research and clinic science.
Photon Theraputics is launching the PhotonUVC Vet, a revolutionary new veterinary non-contact device which treats corneal infections in just five seconds at London Vet Show 2024.
Photon Therapeutics was recently recognised as the winner of the Innovation Session, ESCRS iNovation® Day in Barcelona, which asked attendees, ‘Which of the following emerging technologies will have the biggest potential impact on ophthalmic practices and patients in the near future?’.
Dr Mark Leddy and Chief Scientific Officer, Dr Simon Dean, MBChB MSC FRANZCO FBCLA, will be delivering a CPD presentation at the Exhibitor Showcase -5 Amazing Seconds – A New Transformative Treatment for Corneal Infections - on Thursday 14th November at 3pm.
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary?
A: From an early age, I had an interest in animals and as I discovered I had a natural aptitude for science, it became clear that a career in veterinary medicine would be a great fit for me.
I spent about 9-10 years as a general practice vet, and I was never happier than when I was in the operating room. However, when I met my now-wife, who was a junior doctor at the time, our lives became a string of post it notes and juggling hectic schedules which led me to step away from the day-to-day of being a GP vet and explore something that could better align with our lifestyle. I stumbled into a role as a veterinary advisor and quickly discovered the world of industry, which opened my eyes to new opportunities.
What surprised me was how much I enjoyed the marketing side of things, and over time I transitioned into leadership roles—from product manager to marketing manager, country manager, and eventually CEO. I've found that I really enjoy the people side of business, managing teams, and driving projects forward.
While I do miss the close bonds formed in clinical practice—working minute by minute with the team to care for animals—I don’t miss working with animals as much as you might think. My home is full of them! We’ve got a hamster, four guinea pigs living in a palace, two cats, two dogs, two horses, and a pony. Can I include our 11-year-old son as well?
Today, I’m the CEO of Photon Therapeutics, a company working on cutting-edge technology that’s set to revolutionise the treatment of infections. It’s an incredibly exciting time to be part of such innovation.
Q: Reflecting on your career thus far, what achievements or milestones are you most proud of and why?
A: I’d say the sheer breadth of experiences I’ve had makes it difficult to choose a single achievement. One of the milestones I’m particularly proud of is launching a completely new subsidiary, which grew from a turnover of £1 million to £5 million—far exceeding expectations. Being part of something like that, where you can tangibly see the impact and growth, was incredibly rewarding.
Another thing that stands out is watching people I was involved in recruiting grow and succeed in their own careers. Seeing them take on new challenges and develop into leaders themselves is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey. I’ve always enjoyed being part of their personal and professional development.
On top of that, launching new products is always a highlight for me. It’s an exciting process that allows me to blend my veterinary knowledge with different business functions, and it keeps things dynamic. I originally signed up to be a vet with the expectation of staying local, but my career has taken me around the world and into areas I never imagined.
Flexing my veterinary degree into different fields—from clinical practice to leadership roles in the industry—has opened doors I never thought possible. It’s been an incredible journey so far, and I’m proud of how it’s unfolded."
Q: Could you provide an overview of the topics you will be discussing during your clinical sessions at the London Vet Show?
A: Our CPD presentation will focus on corneal health and the challenges that veterinary staff face when it comes to corneal infections and pet owner compliance in treating eye problems. "We will be offering insights into how UVC light will transform the approach to eye infections and help vets to understand how this can optimise outcomes and eliminate owner compliance errors with one treatment, given at the time of presentation of a pet in the practice.
Q: Finally, what piece of advice would you like to give to individuals who are at the start of their veterinary career?
A: My biggest piece of advice for anyone starting their veterinary career is not to limit yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of your current role, but it’s important to stay curious and open to opportunities you might not have initially considered.
No matter how busy you are, always keep an open mind and be willing to explore paths that are less travelled. You don’t have to stick to one thing—there’s room to mix clinical practice with other areas like industry, research, or even leadership. There’s so much out there beyond what you might think when you first graduate. The key is to remain flexible and take advantage of opportunities as they come your way. You never know where they might lead.
Photon Therapeutics will be at Stand E30 and hosting a launch event reception at the stand from 16.15 to 18.15 on Thursday 14 November. The CPD presentation 5 Amazing Seconds – A New Transformative Treatment for Corneal Infections - will take place at Exhibitor Show Case Theatre 3 on Thursday 14th November at 3pm.
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