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Meet Vivian, a Site Intelligence Director

"This continuous learning environment has been instrumental in supporting my ongoing career development."

A woman with black long hair is standing in front of a river.

Hi, I'm Vivian

I studied Business Informatics in Germany and joined Parexel's Site Intelligence team in 2016, starting in the position of Site Intelligence II. Over the past ten years, I have grown with the team and learned numerous ways in which Site Intelligence supports Feasibility through data-driven site selection concepts.

What is it like to work as a Site Intelligence Director? 

Site Intelligence operates at the intersection of two key areas: clinical trial activities and technical tasks. The clinical trial activities include feasibility site list compliance checks, survey programming, triggering feasibility surveys, and feasibility project monitoring in collaboration with Clinical Feasibility Leads (CFL). On the technical side, tasks involve tool programming to improve work efficiency, system integration across Landscape and Veeva, SSH dashboard management, and database data mining to support data analysis and RFIs, all requiring advanced analytics skills.

Additionally, Site Intelligence supports various non-billable tasks. These include RFI support using FAD, PRC, and database data; monitoring US and China GCP & regulatory compliance; tracking quality non-compliance issues; China VAT status monitoring; managing Parexel PI data privacy consent collection; conducting PI Conflict of Interest surveys; and improving Landscape PI & center data integrity. The latter encompasses parent-child hierarchy management and correction of missing, incorrect, or duplicate data.

As a Site Intelligence Director, my daily responsibilities are multifaceted.

    I oversee all activities to ensure timely, compliant, and high-quality feasibility support. This involves the continuous process improvement, system enhancements, and dashboard refinement, as well as fostering cross-functional collaboration and engaging in various initiatives.

    Regular one-on-one meetings with direct reports help with diverse project management and optimal resource prioritization. The role also requires continuous learning about clinical trial processes across different functions. Staying informed about AI developments and how various industries utilize new technologies significantly aids in team management and the ongoing evolution of Site Intelligence.

    Who does Site Intelligence collaborate with most?

    Site Intelligence collaborates with a diverse array of roles across the organization. We work closely with Clinical Feasibility Leads (CFL) and Site Feasibility Leads (SFL) to support feasibility projects. Our collaboration extends to GCO Project Leaders (PL), Clinical Operations Leads (COL), and Compliance Due Diligence (CDD). Additionally, we work with the IT system integration team and Landscape system vendor to support technological integration.

    What career growth opportunities exist, and how has Parexel supported you?

    Parexel offers numerous opportunities for employees to acquire and enhance both required and additional skills. For job-related training, department provide face-to-face sessions led by experienced colleagues and encourage an open environment where questions are welcomed, ensuring junior colleagues receive ample support.

    Beyond clinical trial knowledge, Parexel invests in developing a wide range of skills. The company offers training in soft skills such as presentation techniques, English language support for non-native speakers, leadership and management courses for those in managerial roles, and health-related programs and many more.

    The training resources have been immensely beneficial to me personally. The open platform allows me to access clinical trial knowledge whenever needed, while the soft skills training has significantly enhanced my ability to manage the team effectively. This continuous learning environment has been instrumental in supporting my ongoing career development.

    What advice do you have for joining the Site Intelligence team at a management level?

    For those considering a career in Site Intelligence at Parexel, the advice are develop a diverse skill set combining clinical knowledge with data analytics and technology proficiency. Cultivate adaptability, as our field is dynamic with evolving technologies and methodologies. Strong analytical skills are crucial, as much of our work involves data mining, analysis, and interpretation. Enhance your understanding of clinical trial processes and prioritize attention to detail, as our work directly impacts trial quality and efficiency.

    Foster collaborative skills and stay curious about technology, as we work closely with various departments and systems. Be prepared for a fast-paced environment, managing multiple projects simultaneously. Develop project management skills and embrace continuous learning, taking advantage of Parexel's training opportunities.

    Joining the Site Intelligence team offers a unique chance to optimize clinical trials through data-driven approaches. It's a challenging but rewarding field that provides continuous growth and the opportunity to make a significant impact in clinical research.

    Before any new drug can be sold in pharmacies or prescribed by doctors, it needs to go through a rigorous testing process called clinical trials. These trials typically involve three main phases and can take several years to complete. They're essential to ensure the medication is safe and effective for patients. Pharmaceutical companies that develop these new drugs have a choice. They can either conduct all these complex trials themselves or partner with specialized companies like ours – CROs. That's where we come in.

    We're experts in designing, planning, and managing these clinical trials. Pharmaceutical companies often choose to work with us because we can help them navigate this process more efficiently. We have the expertise, resources, and established networks to conduct these trials effectively while ensuring they comply with all the strict regulations involved.

    What's the role of the Site Intelligence team in clinical research?

    Site Intelligence plays a crucial role in the early stages of each phase of clinical trials, specifically during the feasibility stage. Our primary focus is on supporting CFL in the site identification, which is a critical component in setting up successful clinical studies. Additionally, we provide essential system support, ensuring that the technological infrastructure needed for efficient site selection and management is in place and functioning optimally. This work lays the foundation for smooth trial operations and contributes significantly to the overall success of clinical studies across all phases.

    How does Parexel/CRO industry differ from your previous work experiences?

    Regulatory Environment and Impact on Human Health

    The CRO industry, including Parexel, differs significantly from other industries I've worked in, primarily due to its stringent regulatory environment and its direct impact on human health. In the CRO industry, we adhere strictly to global regulations and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines. The ultimate goal of clinical trials is to improve human health through the development of new medications.

    Importance of Safety

    However, testing these medications on humans carries inherent risks. Therefore, ensuring patient safety throughout the often years-long trial process is of paramount importance and our highest priority. This focus on human safety sets the CRO industry apart from many others. In industries producing non-food consumer goods, for instance, if a product has a defect, it can typically be returned to the vendor for replacement or repair. The consequences of errors are usually limited to financial or convenience factors. In contrast, in clinical trials, if a medication shows serious side effects, it can have dire consequences for patient safety. There's no simple 'recall' or 'fix' for a drug that proves harmful – the impact on human lives could be severe and irreversible.

    Unique Work Environment

    This reality shapes every aspect of our work. It demands an unparalleled level of diligence, ethical consideration, and attention to detail. We operate under the constant awareness that our work directly affects people's lives and health. This responsibility creates a unique working environment characterized by rigorous processes, extensive documentation, and a culture of meticulousness that you might not find to the same degree in other industries.

    Industry Significance and Responsibility

    In essence, working in the CRO industry means being part of a critical bridge between scientific innovation and public health, with human safety as our guiding principle. This combination of factors creates a unique and deeply meaningful professional environment.

    Most attractive aspects of Parexel and CRO industry? Your unique experiences here?

    The most attractive aspects of Parexel and the CRO industry are the profound impact on global healthcare and human lives. Working at Parexel puts us at the forefront of medical innovation, directly contributing to potentially life-saving therapies. The global nature of our work offers collaboration with diverse professionals worldwide, broadening perspectives and enriching experiences.

    Parexel fosters a continuous learning environment in the ever-evolving field of clinical research. The complexity and variety of projects keep work engaging, requiring creative thinking and adaptability. Parexel's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology in clinical research is impressive, often applying innovative solutions to improve trial efficiency.

    The collaborative spirit within Parexel is unique, fostering interdisciplinary teamwork that leads to innovative solutions. This combination of meaningful work, global impact, continuous learning, technological innovation, and collaboration makes Parexel and the CRO industry uniquely rewarding, offering the opportunity to significantly advance global health.

    Life Beyond the Job Title

    Hobbies outside of work? A surprising fact about you.

    Outside of work, I maintain an active lifestyle to promote balanced health. I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and bicycling, as well as regular training sessions at the fitness studio. To unwind, I often listen to music and indulge in my passion for gardening, particularly growing vegetables and tending to various plants.

    Travel is another of my interests. I relish the opportunity to explore different cultures and experience the beauty of nature in various parts of the world. These journeys not only broaden my horizons but also provide a refreshing break from daily routines.

    I have a deep affection for animals. In the past, our household was home to menagerie of 12 pets, including a dog, a mother cat with her kittens, birds and fishes. Recently, I've been contemplating the idea of expanding my pet family to include chicken or goose, which would add an interesting dimension to my home life.

    Are you interested in a Site Intelligence role at Parexel?

    Apply Now

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