Episode 04 The Clinical Trial Manager with Kristen Perkins

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Today, we’re diving into the world of clinical operations with the incredible Kristen Perkins. With over 16 years of experience and the founder of the Clinical Trial Manager, Kristen brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our discussion. Get ready for an engaging and enlightening conversation! 

Kristen is a clinical operations leader located in Greater Boston with 16+ years of Phase I-IV global leadership and clinical trial management experience. She is passionate about patient-focused drug development and supporting people and teams with achieving audacious goals. 

Kristen is also the Founder of The Clinical Trial Manager, a platform designed for current and aspiring Clinical Trial Managers in the pharmaceutical and biotech industry. Through free content, online courses, group coaching, and a mastermind program, Kristen supports ambitious clinical operations professionals to step into their full leadership potential. 

Highlights of the Episode: 

• Kristen’s journey from a research assistant at top medical institutions to a senior director of clinical operations.
• How a research course in college opened her eyes to the clinical research industry.
• The personal impact of her grandmother’s battle with cancer on her career path.
• The importance of patient-focused drug development and holistic healthcare in clinical trials.
• The role of clinical operations as the “Swiss army knife” of clinical trials, requiring diverse skills and relationship building.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Networking: Kristen emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and networks in the clinical research industry.
• Advocacy and Self-Worth: Learn how advocating for yourself, knowing your worth, and understanding fair market value can significantly impact your career and salary.
• Holistic Approach to Healthcare: Kristen’s insights on integrating holistic healthcare practices with traditional clinical research to improve patient outcomes.
• Managing Clinical Trials: The critical role of clinical trial managers in ensuring the success of trials by overseeing internal and external teams, managing vendors, and maintaining high-quality standards.

Episode Highlights:

• [0:01] Suzanne’s warm welcome and introduction of Kristen Perkins.
• [0:30] Kristen’s career journey and her shift from psychology to clinical research.
• [3:00] The personal story behind Kristen’s passion for oncology and patient-focused drug development.
• [9:00] Transitioning from site work to CROs and the challenges of working with paper TMFs.
• [12:00] The critical role of clinical trial managers and the importance of project and people management skills.
• [20:00] Kristen’s advocacy for fair compensation and how to navigate salary negotiations.
• [30:00] The launch of the Clinical Trial Manager and how it supports aspiring clinical trial managers.
• [40:00] Closing thoughts and how to connect with Kristen.

📞 Connect with Kristen:

• Website: www.theclinicaltrialmanager.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/theclinicaltrialmanager

📞 Connect with Suzanne:

• Website: https://www.iceconsultingllc.com/home
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/turnersuzannem/

💌 Feedback and Questions:

• Email Suzanne at [e-mail]

🎙️ Tune in and get to know the passionate professional behind Heart of the Trial!