OLIVIER GOARNISSON advises on matters related to life sciences regulatory law, with a particular focus on clinical trials, non-interventional studies, pharmacovigilance, marketing authorizations, market access, data protection, compliance and enforcement. He also advises corporate clients and trade associations on European legislative and policy developments in these areas.
Olivier is both a qualified lawyer and physician. From 2004 to 2010, he practiced in Sidley’s Brussels office, where he advised life sciences clients on regulatory matters, clinical trials, pharmacovigilance and data protection. He then spent eight years at the European headquarters of a pharmaceutical company, where he gained further legal, management and leadership experience. As Director of Medical Affairs Operations, he supervised the execution of post-authorization studies and related interactions with regulatory authorities. He also oversaw programs through which the company provided support for academic research in Europe. In this role, he ensured compliance of the company’s academic support programs with anti-corruption and pharmacovigilance requirements. He also helped the company manage intellectual property and product liability risks. Olivier returned to Sidley in November 2018 to help launch the firm’s Life Sciences practice in Switzerland.
Olivier has recently been recognized by Legal 500 EMEA (Switzerland) 2023-2024 for healthcare and life sciences. In 2024, clients commented that “Olivier is a long-standing advisor on highly technical matters. His in-house experience, and medical degree, make him an exceptional resource.”