ACRO Announces New Leadership for 2025
ACRO has officially revealed the new leadership team for 2025, a pivotal year for the organization. The Board of Directors elected Jim Reilly, who serves as the Executive Vice President of Development Cloud Strategy at Veeva, as Chair. His experience brings valuable insights into the ever-evolving clinical research landscape. Cassandra “Sandy” Kennedy, Chief Quality, Regulatory Affairs, and Sustainability Officer at Fortrea, has been appointed as Vice-Chair. Moreover, Mike Crowley, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel at Parexel, continues his vital role as Secretary. Ari Feldman, Senior Vice President of Global Compliance and Strategy at Medidata Solutions, retains his position as Treasurer. These leaders are positioned to guide ACRO into the future.
Meet Jim Reilly: A Visionary Leader
Jim Reilly’s journey with Veeva began in 2015, where he has significantly impacted the Development Cloud strategy. With over two decades of expertise in life sciences software and consulting, his leadership experience includes a senior role at Accenture, overseeing transformative projects aimed at enhancing clinical and regulatory technologies. Mr. Reilly’s transition to Veeva was facilitated by the acquisition of Octagon Research Solutions, a firm known for revolutionizing regulatory submissions.
Emphasizing Innovation and Collaboration
Mr. Reilly holds an MBA in Information Systems from Villanova University, alongside a Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience from the University of Scranton. His dedication to innovation and improvement in clinical research is evident in his past contributions as a board member since 2023, culminating in his recent election as Chair.
Reflecting on ACRO's commitment to advancing industry standards, Mr. Reilly stated, “In 2024, ACRO member companies adapted to address the demands of an evolving industry. This includes providing recommendations on regulatory frameworks for artificial intelligence and ensuring participant safety in a shifting global landscape. I am excited to lead the association as our members collaborate and innovate across clinical research to develop new therapies faster and more efficiently.”
Introducing New Members for Enhanced Expertise
ACRO is also thrilled to welcome two new organizations into its growing family: Premier Research and Zelta Clinical Trial Solutions. Their inclusion signifies an expansion of ACRO's advocacy and collaboration efforts across the clinical research community.
Ms. Kennedy expressed excitement regarding the new members, stating, “We are happy to welcome Premier Research and Zelta to ACRO’s membership. Bringing together both CROs and clinical technology companies allows us to address the topics that drive industry change effectively. ACRO continues to enhance the depth and breadth of expertise that our membership offers.”
The Importance of ACRO
Since its inception in 2002, ACRO has stood at the forefront of clinical research and technology organizations. It advocates for high standards of medical research globally, ensuring that drugs, biologics, and medical devices are developed efficiently and ethically. Membership in ACRO signifies a commitment to safe, innovative, and valuable clinical research practices.
Through its efforts, ACRO represents organizations that are not just ensuring regulatory compliance, but also pushing the envelope for greater efficiency and innovation within the clinical research process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ACRO?
ACRO stands for the Association of Clinical Research Organizations, representing leading organizations in the clinical research field.
Who was elected as Chair for 2025?
Jim Reilly of Veeva was elected as Chair of ACRO for 2025.
What are some roles filled in ACRO's Board of Directors?
Key roles include Cassandra Kennedy as Vice-Chair, Mike Crowley as Secretary, and Ari Feldman as Treasurer.
What is the significance of the new member organizations?
The addition of Premier Research and Zelta Clinical Trial Solutions enhances ACRO's collaborative efforts and expertise within the industry.
When was ACRO founded?
ACRO was founded in 2002 and has grown to become a significant advocate for clinical research organizations globally.
