Management

Originally from Plano, Texas, Beth San Segundo joined OriGen Biomedical in January 1998 as a Clean Room Technician. At just 18, while a college freshman, she began her career at OriGen to enhance her medical school applications. During this period, she worked in the cleanroom building extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) catheters and balanced her college coursework. OriGen, at the time, was a small operation with just herself, her father, founder Richard Martin, and the office manager.

Over the years, Beth transitioned between administrative roles and cleanroom tasks as the company’s needs evolved. After completing her undergraduate studies, she took a gap year before applying to medical school and chose to join OriGen full-time instead. Her qualifications include a Nurse Aide certification and experience working directly in oncology and rehabilitation units, which further ignited her passion for the work done at OriGen.

Her career at OriGen has been marked by progression through various roles, including Director of Marketing and Sales. In June 2019, she was appointed President and CEO, taking over for her father and bringing 26 years of industry expertise across executive management, manufacturing, nursing, marketing, and sales. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a Minor in Spanish from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master in Business Administration from St. Edward’s University.

Under her leadership, OriGen has achieved notable milestones, including being listed on the Inc. 5000 List for the seventh time and receiving the Top Workplaces for two consecutive years in 2023 and 2024 with honors from the Austin American-Statesman. Beth was nominated as a finalist for the 2024 Gulf South Award by Ernst & Young LLP and recognized on the 2024 Women2Watch list by the Women Presidents’ Organization. Driven by a deep passion for OriGen’s mission, its people, and the organization’s impact, Beth is committed to advancing client service and improving the lives of patients through innovative solutions.

Nathan Thompson, originally from Houston, Texas, is the Director of Engineering at OriGen Biomedical. He joined the company in 2009 as a Product Engineer after completing his senior design project with the company. In addition to leading OriGen’s engineering team, Nathan oversees all aspects of the engineering department, including process validation, design and development, production support, and technical customer support.

With 15 years of experience in the engineering field, he brings a wealth of expertise in Biomedical Engineering. A proud High Honors graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering and progress toward a Master of Science in Engineering Management, Nathan Thompson earned the position of President of the Biomedical Engineering Honors Society while enrolled.

Nathan grew up working in his family’s restaurant, where he learned the essence of servant leadership—prioritizing the customer and understanding that every person has a unique story. This deeply ingrained belief drives his commitment to creating medical devices that empower patients to continue sharing their stories with the world.

Driven by a passion for patients in our decisions and prioritizing quality in everything we do, he is dedicated to advancing our mission and fostering a team of high-functioning engineers who attack problems until solutions are found.

Amanda Cooper, originally from Edmond, Oklahoma, is the Director of Human Resources at OriGen Biomedical, joining the company in November 2019 as the Human Resources Manager. She oversees the recruiting and compensation programs and plans. She implements HR functions, including but not limited to employee relations, administration, and compliance for all personnel in support of OriGen culture and environment. She also develops and executes HR strategies that promote the achievement of business results, improving performance, profitability, growth, and employee engagement.

With 16 years of experience in Human Resources, she brings a wealth of expertise in Strategic Human Resource Leadership and Development and places a high value on succession planning. Amanda is a proud University of Central Oklahoma graduate in Edmond, Oklahoma, with a Bachelor of Science in General Studies and a Minor in Spanish. Amanda is a member of the Austin Human Resource Management Association (AHRMA) and is currently studying to earn her Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification. She also leads OriGen’s DE&I Committee, actively enhancing employee well-being and positively shaping our company culture, resulting in OriGen receiving the Top Workplaces for two consecutive years in 2023 and 2024 with honors from the Austin American-Statesman.

Driven by a passion for driving innovation and implementing corporate social responsibility strategies that benefit our industry and the cancer community, she is dedicated to our mission at OriGen Biomedical. She appreciates working at OriGen for its alignment with her skills and aspirations and cherishes the opportunity to work alongside talented and dedicated colleagues. Each day is challenging and rewarding, thanks to the collaborative and supportive environment, which fosters her engagement in impactful projects and meaningful contributions to healthcare advancements and OriGen’s success.

Greg Sansom, originally from Pensacola, Florida, is the Chief Financial Officer at OriGen Biomedical, having joined the company in 2009. With 36 years of experience in the accounting and finance industry, he brings a wealth of expertise in financial leadership. He is responsible for all aspects of the company’s finance and accounting functions and payroll and benefits administration.

Before joining OriGen Biomedical, Greg was the Chief Financial Officer for Interstate Connections, Inc., managing the finance and accounting, human resources, and recruiting functions for a $30 million privately held chain of wireless retail stores. Before joining Interstate Connections, Greg was involved with several organizations, including Ambion, Barrett Kendall Publishing, Crossroads Systems, Dell Computers, Digital Lifestyles Group, and Harcourt Brace & Company.

He is a proud Magna Cum Laude graduate of Harding University, in Searcy, Arkansas, with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting as well as a Master of Science in Accounting. Greg is also a Certified Public Accountant.

Driven by a passion for improving patients’ lives and supporting transformational therapies worldwide, Greg believes deeply in our mission. Over the last 15 years, he has built and cherished valuable relationships while positively impacting those we serve.

Tonia Wilson, MBA, originally from Detroit, Michigan, is the Director of Global Business Development at OriGen Biomedical, joining the company in 2010 as a Customer Service Representative. She oversees the Customer Service, Sales, and Logistics departments, contributing to OriGen’s overall customer service strategy and ensuring that her team provides the best customer service in the industry.

With 20 years of experience in clinical research and laboratory sciences, she brings a wealth of expertise in specimen analysis, research monitoring, and data management. She is a proud Magna Cum Laude graduate of Southern New Hampshire University, in Manchester, New Hampshire, with a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration. Additionally, Tonia graduated from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, with a Master of Business Administration.

Driven by a passion for healthcare and patient support, she is committed to enhancing our mission and making a tangible impact through her work. Her role allows her to assist our customers in treating patients effectively, providing her with a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. She is dedicated to contributing to meaningful outcomes, ensuring that her efforts make a real difference in the lives of those we support.

Adam McPherson, MBA, originally from Minnesota, is the Director of Marketing at OriGen Biomedical, having joined the company in June 2022. With 20 years of experience in the marketing industry, he brings a wealth of expertise in strategic market management, business, and product development.

Before OriGen, Adam spent 14 years as a med tech marketing leader with Ottobock Healthcare, a global leader in developing medical devices for people with limited mobility in the areas of prosthetics, orthotics, and human mobility, where he earned Market Manager of the Year in 2010, 2011, and 2012. Previously, Adam worked at Optum, a part of UnitedHealth Group and a leading information and technology-enabled health services business.

He is a proud graduate of the University of Minnesota-Duluth, Minnesota, with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Organizational Management, and the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, with a Master of Business Administration concentrating in Marketing.

Driven by a passion for advancing medical innovation to improve people’s lives, he is dedicated to our mission at OriGen to enhance lives through groundbreaking products. Drawn to the team by our shared commitment to improving treatments for cancer, genetic conditions, and other critical health issues, he finds satisfaction and fulfillment in contributing to a culture where each day brings the opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

Deborah Rutt, originally from Leicester, United Kingdom, is the Director of Operations at OriGen Biomedical, having joined the company in May 2019. She oversees the entire organization’s manufacturing processes and is responsible for leading teams in manufacturing, purchasing, and global inventory management.

With 21 years of experience in Medical Device Manufacturing, she brings a wealth of plant management and production expertise. A proud graduate of Nottingham Trent University in Nottingham, UK, with a Higher National Diploma in Applied Food Science, Deborah Rutt earned a membership with the Institute of Supervision and Management from 1997 to 2003. Driven by a passion for making a meaningful impact in the medical device field, she is dedicated to advancing OriGen’s mission to change lives through our products.

Knowing that her work can affect patients’ lives profoundly resonates with her, especially given her personal connection to cancer. She finds great fulfillment in being part of a company that fosters a culture of inclusivity, support, and genuine care for its employees. Deborah’s commitment to our mission and the unique environment at OriGen drives her to make a significant difference in the lives of those we support.

Sam Saleh, originally from Boise, Idaho, is the Director of Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs at OriGen Biomedical, joining the company in June 2023. With 20 years of experience in the regulatory compliance field, he brings a wealth of expertise in global regulatory and quality compliance leadership.

Sam successfully spearheaded numerous projects, establishing robust quality and regulatory compliance frameworks for renowned organizations such as DaVita, Medtronic, Beckman Coulter, and Agilent Technologies. With a wealth of experience in domestic and international biotechnology landscapes, Sam brings a unique perspective and invaluable skills to the leadership team at OriGen Biomedical. 

He is a proud Philadelphia University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Finance with a Minor in Hospitality Management.

Driven by a passion for global health and safety, Sam is dedicated to advancing our mission and positively impacting the lives of those we serve. The collaborative environment at OriGen fosters innovation and continuous improvement, aligning perfectly with his commitment to quality and regulatory excellence. Leading a team of talented professionals who share this commitment is incredibly fulfilling. OriGen’s mission to provide life-saving products worldwide resonates deeply with him, and every day, he is motivated by the knowledge that our work directly contributes to improving patient outcomes and advancing healthcare.

Richard Martin is the Founder of OriGen Biomedical and is currently Chairman of the Board. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University and an MBA from Pepperdine University. Additionally, he is a Registered Mechanical Engineer and a Certified Quality Engineer.

Born in Spokane, Washington, and raised in Dallas, Texas, Richard spent his early years in Texas before joining the United States Air Force (USAF). During the Vietnam War, he served as a Navigator and Electronic Warfare Officer, accumulating over 2,100 flying hours in B-52 and F-4 aircraft. After his service, he left the military with the rank of Captain.

Following his time in the USAF, Richard spent two decades in leadership roles with major medical device companies, where he designed cutting-edge blood oxygenators, intraocular lenses, heart valves, and cardiac care products. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish companies manufacturing heart valves in Singapore and Germany. In 1990, he secured 510(k) approval for PermaLife Cell Culture Bags, which laid the foundation for OriGen Biomedical’s establishment in 1997.

As OriGen’s first President, Richard played a crucial role in defining the company’s mission and vision statements. Leveraging his extensive medical device experience, he helped shape these guiding principles, laying the groundwork for OriGen’s future success.

Throughout his tenure, Richard led OriGen to achieve significant milestones. Under his leadership, OriGen Biomedical was recognized on the Inc. 5000 list for six consecutive years, celebrating the company’s consistent growth. In 2013, OriGen ranked #97 on Texas A&M University’s Aggie 100, recognizing the fastest-growing companies led by Texas A&M alumni. Richard, an Aggie himself, proudly accepted the award on behalf of OriGen.

In June 2019, Richard transitioned from President and CEO to Chairman of the Board, continuing to influence the company’s culture and strategic direction while focusing on special projects. His contributions to the biomedical field were further recognized in 2020 when he was inducted into the Fellowship of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (FELSO) for his groundbreaking work in the extracorporeal support community. Richard was the first non-clinician to receive this honor.

With a career spanning decades of innovation and leadership in the biomedical industry, Richard is writing a memoir chronicling his rich and colorful experiences. His vision, expertise, and unwavering commitment to medical innovation continue to guide OriGen’s success.