Meet Yena, a Site Contracts Associate I

What does a day in the life of your role look like?

The Site Contracts Associate role plays a critical role in the progress of clinical trials from initiation to termination. Additionally, the SCA acts as a negotiator by serving as an intermediary between sites, sponsors, and study teams. Day-to-day activities involve collaborating with various teams on an ongoing basis within a very structured day.

What have you experienced at Parexel but not anywhere else?

The onboarding training at Parexel was the most impressive. The training with my Line Manager helped me develop my contract and negotiation skills. My Line Manager supported me through the difficult parts, which helped me adapt not only to my job but also as a member of the Parexel organization.

How do you work "With Heart" and what does it mean to you?

"With Heart" means having a heart that thinks of patients. It is about supporting patients through ongoing discussions with sites, sponsors, and study teams to help them heal and recover. We negotiate with many people to help patients get what they need during their treatment process. These efforts aim to help patients easily access treatments through clinical trials and improve their health and quality of life.

How has Parexel supported your career growth?

I had a great opportunity to join as a Site Contracts Associate with my background as a Registered Nurse, Clinical Research Coordinator, and In-house CRA. The support from my Line Manager and mentors has been a great help in my adaptation to the role of SCA at Parexel. They have always supported me and helped me become a successful member of Parexel through constant education and leadership.

What do you want candidates to know about your role before accepting an offer?

Before accepting the SCA role, candidates should understand the work of the SCA. This role requires excellent communication skills and coordination skills based on planning and attention to detail. In addition to rapport and negotiation with the Site, the ability to collaborate with the Study team and Sponsor is important. Accordingly, the SCA must comply with applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines, including ICH-GCP, to find mutually acceptable solutions and ensure that the contract is consistent with the overall goals and objectives of the trial.

Why did you choose the Clinical Research industry?

As a nurse in a hospital, I was able to contribute to the treatment of patients through direct nursing. However, I had the opportunity to work as a study coordinator, and as I saw patients improving through clinical trials, I realized that clinical trials could be of great help to patients. I chose the Clinical Research industry because I felt attracted to the idea of being able to help with their treatment and well-being.

Are there any habits, behaviors, or beliefs you find to be helpful in your everyday personal and/or work activities?

I believe that the power of planning time is helpful in both personal and work activities. I think that through time management and planning, I can focus on my work and then plan my personal time to maintain a work-life balance.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

I enjoy tennis and traveling. In my free time, I usually go out to play tennis with my husband. We go to pair tournaments together, and I feel happy playing tennis with many people.