Aleap’s Executive in Residence Program: Strengthening Startups with Industry Insight

In the heart of Oslo Science Park, Aleap has established itself as the Nordic region’s largest and most dynamic innovation center for early-stage health startups. With its pioneering Executive in Residence (XiR) Program, Aleap is amplifying its impact by integrating top-tier industry professionals directly into its community of health innovators.

A Strategic Mentorship Platform for Growth

The Executive in Residence (XiR) Program is designed to connect Aleap’s member startups with seasoned health industry executives and startup veterans who offer mentorship, strategic guidance, and industry access, which are all critical for scaling innovative health ventures. Executives in Residence commit to being physically present at Aleap at least one day a week, offering informal introductions, one-on-one coaching, and expert insights to entrepreneurs navigating complex health markets.

Unlike traditional consultant roles, XiRs at Aleap do not offer paid services to startups while in the program. Their participation is motivated by a shared passion for fostering entrepreneurship and driving the Norwegian health startup ecosystem forward. Each XiR is carefully selected for their extensive experience in healthcare, life sciences, and technology, and for their ability to empower founders to think critically, act decisively, and grow responsibly.

Meet Marlene Linzer-Scherf: Brand Strategist, Executive Advisor, and XiR

One of the standout Executives in Residence currently serving at Aleap is Marlene Linzer-Scherf, a globally accomplished brand strategist and founder of RIPE MCC. With over 15 years of international experience, Marlene brings unparalleled expertise in digital communication, brand building, and community engagement to Aleap’s health startups.

Throughout her career, Marlene has held senior leadership positions at industry giants such as Philips and ASML, where she led global initiatives in brand strategy and digital engagement. Her insights span across the healthcare, life sciences, and tech sectors and makes her a uniquely valuable resource for startups operating in regulated and innovation-driven environments.

At Aleap, Marlene supports emerging companies in refining their brand narratives, building trust-based communities, and optimizing go-to-market communication strategies. She is particularly focused on helping founders elevate their visibility and messaging to attract investors, partners, and early adopters. In addition to her work at Aleap, Marlene is currently the Director of Communications and Membership at Wild Norway, further cementing her role as a leader in health innovation.

Her influence is already being felt across the incubator, where startups are benefiting from her hands-on mentorship and her passion for brand-led business transformation.

Empowering Norway’s Health Innovators

The XiR program is more than just an advisory initiative, it’s a bridge between experience and innovation, between industry knowledge and entrepreneurial energy. With professionals like Marlene Linzer-Scherf on board, Aleap continues to cultivate a culture where startups receive the guidance they need to thrive, while experts have a platform to share their knowledge and shape the future of healthcare innovation in Norway.

To learn more about Aleap’s Executive in Residence Program or how to get involved, visit www.aleap.no.