Melissa Yiannoutsos

Melissa Yiannoutsos is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in the biotech and agritech sectors. Currently serving as Innovation Fund Manager at Booster NZ since January 2021, Melissa also holds positions as an Investment Committee Member for Return on Science in both Agritech and Biotech & Life Sciences. In February 2024, Melissa became a Director at Dodson Group NZ and previously held directorships at Hi-Aspect Limited, Avalia Immunotherapies Ltd, AuramerBio, and Anagenix Ltd. Melissa's leadership roles include Acting CEO and Executive Director at AuramerBio, where innovative sensor technologies were developed, and Interim Chair at Avalia Immunotherapies, focusing on vaccine development. Melissa's background includes investment management at Powerhouse Ventures Limited, emphasizing ventures based on academic research in healthcare. Educational credentials include an Entrepreneurship Leadership Certificate from MIT Sloan School of Management, Corporate Governance from the Institute of Directors in New Zealand, and a Bachelor of Commerce from Victoria University of Wellington.