Heart of the Trial

Episode 04 The Clinical Trial Manager with Kristen Perkins

• Suzanne Turner • Season 1 • Episode 4

Share episode

Send us a text

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:

📞 Connect with Suzanne:

💌 Feedback and Questions:

  • Email Suzanne at podcast@iceconsultingllc.com

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