Client Background and Challenge
A leading pharmaceutical company engaged in clinical research operations faced challenges in managing a dispersed and multi-supplier workforce, resulting in high attrition rates and inefficiencies in training, communication, and professional development.
The Solution
Vita Global Sciences (VGS) implemented its Functional Service Provider (FSP) model to consolidate the client’s Clinical Operations workforce into a single-supplier, managed solution, addressing the following challenges:
- Consolidation of Workforce: VGS consolidated the client’s dispersed Clinical Operations workforce into a single-supplier solution, promoting retention and streamlining communication and training processes.
- Centralized Management: VGS’s Senior Program Manager maintained regular contact with local Clinical Team Leaders and Clinical Study Managers to ensure client needs were met, team members were supported, and efficient delivery of services was achieved.
- Formalized Onboarding Training Plan: VGS created a formalized onboarding training plan for new employees, incorporating general and study-specific training in collaboration with pre-identified colleague functions, ensuring consistent and comprehensive training for all team members.
- Streamlined Recruitment Process: VGS implemented a streamlined recruitment and interviewing process tailored to meet the client’s needs, ensuring efficient acquisition of qualified talent.
- Professional Development & Retention: VGS developed a growth plan for Clinical Trial Coordinators (CTCs) to advance within their functions and evolve into seasoned Clinical Research Associates (CRAs). The plan included handpicked training courses offered through professional clinical research companies, such as ACRP, Barnett International, and SoCRA.
- Expert Guidance: VGS’s FSP management, comprised of clinical research subject matter experts, designed and guided each team member’s professional development plan, allocating funding for enrollment in appropriate courses and certification opportunities, thereby enhancing retention and promoting career advancement.
Results
By leveraging VGS’s FSP model, the client achieved significant improvements in workforce management and operational efficiency:
- Attrition Reduction: Attrition in Clinical Operations functions decreased from nearly 50% in 2015 to 12% in 2016, and maintaining this level to today. Several team members remain in the group for more than 11 years.
- Efficient Training & Communication: The streamlined onboarding training plan and centralized management approach facilitated efficient communication and training, ensuring consistent delivery of services across the workforce.
- Professional Development & Retention: The implementation of professional development plans and tailored training courses enhanced employee retention and promoted career advancement within the organization, contributing to a skilled and experienced workforce.
Conclusion
Through the implementation of VGS’s FSP model, the client successfully consolidated its Clinical Operations workforce, promoting retention, enhancing training and communication processes, and fostering professional development opportunities for its employees. The streamlined recruitment process and expert guidance provided by VGS’s FSP management further contributed to the client’s operational efficiency and long-term success.
