Keenova Team Members Take the Mic on SCRS Talks

SCRS Talks is a short‑form interview series from the Society for Clinical Research Sites that spotlights timely ideas, fresh perspectives, and the people shaping today’s research landscape.

Keenova was proud to join the conversation in a recent episode to share how we’re strengthening site partnerships through accountability, transparency, and real listening.

The Future of Clinical Trials Is Collaborative 

Carrie Lewis, Executive Director, Clinical Program Optimization, and Suzy Montanye, Site Relationship Manager, walked listeners through Keenova’s evolved communication, expectations, and protocol design. Their message is clear: Better partnerships lead to better trials.

Suzy puts it plainly: “We need to design our work with sites, not just for them.”

Three Top Takeaways

Here’s a quick look at the themes that stood out in the conversation and the ways our strategy is shaping a more collaborative model for site engagement.

1. Employ a site‑first model 

Keenova uses a partnership first approach, meaning we serve the sites rather than the other way around. We also primarily work in a functional service provider model which keeps our team close to sites, supports direct communication, and enables real‑time adjustments based on what sites need.

2. Listen, then act

Keenova truly believes in actively listening to our sites then taking action. This happens throughout our daily work, and it’s also reflected in the impact of our Site Operational Advisory Board. The board has already helped influence meaningful changes, including clearer escalation pathways, updated contact lists, more practical training expectations, and streamlined query processes.

The team also attends industry events to understand what is working well and what is not. We bring those insights back and turn them into real changes. Conferences are especially valuable because they expose us to a wide range of site perspectives and give us dedicated time to sit down with sites in person. These conversations help us understand not only individual site concerns but also broader industry challenges.

3. Establish a dedicated relationship role 

Suzy’s full‑time site relationship manager role reflects a proactive investment in partnership. It gives sites a consistent advocate who understands their daily challenges and actively champions improvements across the organization.

How We’re Raising the Bar

This episode highlights the steps we are taking to strengthen site partnerships and work more collaboratively. Listen to the full discussion to the ways we are shaping a new standard for what a sponsor of choice can be.