May 18 GLSA | FOCM Networking Event Recap
On May 18, GLSA and FOCM hosted their monthly online networking event, bringing together life sciences professionals for industry updates, shared insights, and meaningful connections. As always, the session began with open discussion, giving attendees space to share recent industry news or notable events from the past month.
We then transitioned to a featured presentation, typically a 10–15 minute segment highlighting a company, professional journey, or timely clinical research topic.
Featured Presenter: Alison Macpherson, Bright Pharmaceutical Services
This month’s featured presenter was Alison Macpherson, CEO and Founder of Bright Pharmaceutical Services, a full-service CRO headquartered in Los Angeles. Bright is celebrating 20 years in business, a milestone that reflects its steady growth and strong client relationships.
Alison shared her path into the clinical trials industry and how it led to founding Bright with a boutique, sponsor-centric model focused on subject recruitment and retention. Over the years, Bright has supported studies across multiple therapeutic areas and all phases of research.
A key differentiator discussed was Bright’s exceptionally low employee turnover—less than 5% over two decades. As a result, sponsors benefit from highly experienced, engaged teams supporting their programs. While much of Bright’s work has centered on Phase I and II trials in North America, the company has also conducted studies in more than 30 countries worldwide.
Throughout the presentation, questions flowed naturally, leading to discussion around:
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Risk-based monitoring
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Hybrid trial models as the new normal
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Reducing subject visit burden
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Managing trials that incorporate connected devices, eSource data, and wireless technologies
Networking, Announcements, and Connections
Following the presentation, first-time attendees introduced themselves and shared their backgrounds. Several upcoming events were also mentioned, including BIO International in San Diego (June 13–16), which Josh Lang, Mike O’Gorman, and Denise McNerney plan to attend.
Carlos Martinez shared details about a June 12 networking event in San Diego ahead of Farmacon Global’s August 25 conference, which will focus on conducting clinical trials in Rare Diseases in Emerging Markets.
During the closing discussion—framed around “What are you working on, and what do you need help with?”—Heather Hollick shared that she is launching the Institute for Vibrant Leadership and is seeking connections to leaders, coaches, writers, and virtual assistants. Following the event, several potential introductions were made.
Attendees
(Bold indicates first-time attendees)
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Alison Macpherson
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Heather Hollick
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Nicole O’Brien
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Josh Lang
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Barbara Hilewsky
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Shane Krauss
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Carlos Martinez
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David Holland
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Michael O’Gorman
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Keisha Felix
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Ludmilla Scodeler
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Jim Choi
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Cesar Serapiao
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Chris Matheus
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Sally Haller
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Denise McNerney
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Hannah Lloyd
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Todd Neilson
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Zulma Varela
Several screenshots from the event are shared below:
About GLSA
Global Life Sciences Alliance (GLSA) connects biotechs, pharma, CROs, and clinical research sites with the right experts, advisors, and solutions to accelerate development and reduce risk. With a network of more than 200 trusted partners spanning pre-clinical and clinical research, GLSA offers flexible, cost-effective access to specialized expertise and services that support early-stage biotechs, mid-size pharma, and global pharmaceutical companies.
When you need trusted, global resources to accelerate your research, GLSA helps you scale smarter and move you forward with confidence.
To learn how GLSA can support your organization, connect with Denise McNerney or Chris Matheus for a conversation about your goals and challenges.