Archives: Speakers

Leandro is a seasoned Clinical Research Professional with 17 years of industry experience in Contracts & Legal, Start-up & Regulatory, Clinical Monitoring, and Line Management. Over the past 9 years, he has been dedicated to mentoring and developing Clinical Research Associates, equipping them with the tools, training, and feedback needed to excel in their careers.

He has managed Site Relationships in the Barcelona area, serving as the Key Point of Contact for major pharmaceutical companies. In November 2022, he stepped into the role of Interim Country Head for Portugal, overseeing Country Clinical Operations, Site Identification, Resourcing, and Escalations.

Beyond his professional roles, he has contributed to academia as a Teacher Assistant at the University of Chicago’s Clinical Trials Program and currently as a Guest Teacher at ESAME Pharmaceutical Business School. His commitment to educating future professionals underscores his dedication to advancing the clinical research industry and promoting best practices.

Currently, he is the Associate Director of Country Operations at Alexion Pharmaceuticals, leading a team of CRAs and Local Project Managers to bring new treatments to the rare disease field.

Chris Varner is a clinical technology and trial operations leader with 8+ years in site and clinical project management and 7+ years supporting clinical trials through technology. As Senior Director of Solutions Consulting at Endpoint Clinical, he helps sponsors and CROs optimize trial execution through strategic RTSM solutions.

Chris previously led a global team of project managers, designing and implementing DCT and eCOA solutions across multiple therapeutic areas. He has built successful operating models and forged strong partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies to support long-term delivery strategies.

With expertise in both operations and technology, Chris works closely with sales and study teams to ensure best-fit trial strategies. At Endpoint Clinical, he focuses on driving RTSM innovation and seamless system integration to reduce risk, enhance data integrity, and improve efficiency.

Roel van der Heijde lives in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. He has a MA in International Business, is an international acknowledged NLP trainer, executive team coach and a certified death and grief counsellor.

He is a driven and experienced trainer and facilitator in:

• – Patient Fear Reduction (for all caregivers);
• – Team Collaboration;
• – Vulnerability & Leadership;
• – Discrimination & Inclusion.

Roels motivation: “Acknowledgement and recognition of the fears and emotions of our patients are the basis for excellent patient experience and patient safety”.

“Working with Groups I experience as thoroughly fascinating and inspiring. In interaction with groups I am every time amazed by the enormous potential of practical knowledge and direct experience that lies hidden in groups and that is so easily overlooked. Herein lies the basis for excellent vulnerable leadership.