CK’s Domiciliary Research Team were thrilled to attend the Nursing Times Awards last night at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane in London.

The Domiciliary Research Team is part of the unique Salford Lung Study project sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline and were shortlisted in the Clinical Research Nursing category.

Congratulations to the University Hospitals of North Midlands whose clinical research nursing team won the category!

It was an inspirational event and fantastic to hear the motivational stories and award entries.  There were some excellent speeches and very worthy winners.

Congratulations to everyone who won.

London, 20^th September 2016 – CK Group, the leading supplier of scientific and technical staffing services, is proud to announce that it has received the Gold award for service excellence from Agile-1. CK Group accepted the award during the Agile-1 2016 UK Supplier Excellence Summit. The private event was held on Monday, 19 September at The Grange St. Paul’s Hotel in London, England.

“Our ability to deliver high-quality, global, workforce solutions rests largely on the calibre of our participating staffing suppliers,” said Mr. Peter Carvalho, President of Agile-1. “It is my privilege to recognise this outstanding group of companies for their shared commitment to service excellence to our clients. They are true leaders in the staffing industry and have earned the right to be called the best of the best.”

Liam O’Connell, Operations Director at the CK Group said, “It is an honour to have won the Gold award for the 2nd year running and we are delighted to accept the award on behalf of all our staff and contractors whose efforts in delivering a high quality service have helped us receive this honour. We thank every single one of them. We look forward to continuing to improve our service over the next 12 months and developing our relationship with Agile-1.”

“At Agile-1, our Global Strategic Sourcing team takes an innovative approach to supplier relationship management. Our mission is to build strong, mutually beneficial partnerships with our supply base,” said Mr. Jaideep Majumdar, Associate Vice President of Agile-1. “As a result of their on-going commitment to quality and excellence, we strive to create additional business opportunities for these companies as we expand throughout Europe and globally.”

About CK Group

The CK Group strives to be the best provider of staffing and outsourcing services for the science and technology community by providing an excellent experience for its customers.

Established in 1991 to specialise in scientific recruitment, CK quickly became a leading staffing organisation that now provides  a full spectrum of recruitment services for the scientific, clinical, technical, IT and engineering industries.

In 2010 the CK Group was founded to be a natural home to its four highly reputable brands and one Real World Evidence CRO:

• CK Science
• CK Clinical
• CK IT
• CK Engineers
• CK Aspire

CK has built strong relationships with a client base that includes 26 of the world’s top 30 leading blue chip organisations, as well as a multitude of SMEs and everything in between.

Across the group the REC qualified consultants are committed to providing a world class service through their expert industry knowledge and by forming long term relationships with clients and candidates alike.

About AgileOne

Agile-1 solves workforce challenges by combining innovative technologies and programmes with experienced professionals to deliver a suite of total workforce solutions. We maximise the value of your workforce by decreasing liability and overhead associated with human capital management. Workforce challenges. Solved.

It maybe that you think that clinical operations could be the career for you, but how can you get in to this sector? Here are answers to questions that are commonly asked about what to do to get a clinical operations job…

How do I work within Clinical Operations?

‘Clinical Operations’ is not technically a subject studied in academia and is usually only taught in the form of ‘clinical research’ as part of some life science subjects.  Because of this, most people wanting to enter into a career within clinical operations don’t have any relevant experience in the field and this can be quite a daunting prospect for a newly graduated candidate.

So what should I do?

One option is to gain some experience in a more QC or laboratory based position, thus gaining an insight into how a pharmaceutical or biotechnology company works.  This helps when apply for entry-level roles within clinical research as you will be more aware of how a pharmaceutical, biotechnology or medical devices company operates.

What entry-level roles are available in Clinical Operations?

The most common route into clinical operations is to work as a Clinical Trial Assistant or CTA.  CTA’s are responsible for the day to day coordination of trials and work alongside Clinical Research Associates (CRA’s) and Clinical Study/Project Manager (CSM/CPM’s).  CTA’s are responsible for keeping Trial Master File (TMF) documents in order in accordance with the legislation that governs the country where the trial is operating.  They also ensure company Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) are kept in order to ensure operations staff are working to the guidelines and governance set for the trial.

So how do I apply for these CTA roles?

It goes without saying that a life sciences degree or equivalent is the starting point in entering the clinical research network, but this aside the best advice when applying for CTA roles is to be FLEXIBLE.  Being flexible on location, salary, contract duration and scope of work will help make you the most attractive candidate to a prospective employer.  Once you are in the door then your chance to get further experience will then help you climb further up the clinical operations ladder.

Read our guide to clinical operations

Read the CRA job profile

Are you looking to embark on a new career or maybe you are exploring the idea of a career change? If you have a background in life sciences or even chemicals and are looking for a rewarding career then the clinical operations sector could be perfect for you. As part of our 4 part series “fancy a career in clinical operations”, we will be releasing articles about this sector and the following article explains what clinical operations is:

Clinical trials require operational management and thus require key individuals to coordinate the project or particular phase of the drug development process.  These positions range from administrative roles or Clinical Trial Administrators, supporting the day to day activities for the trial, field-based monitors or Clinical Research Associates who travel to different Clinical Research Units to ensure the trial is running correctly, Clinical Study/Project Managers who manage the teams or running of the trial (usually on a region or global level)  to Directorship roles within clinical operations where the person will have sole responsibility of a trial.

Operational roles tend to focus on the smooth running of the clinical trial in accordance with trial protocol, GCP and ICH guidelines and the people tasked with these roles are measured based on whether the trial is on schedule and patient recruitment numbers are at required levels.  Operational jobs require individuals to be able to converse and liaise with key opinion leaders in the drug development process and thus require incumbents to have strong communication and influencing skills.

Clinical operations is a highly important part of the drug development process and encompasses the whole clinical trial process from phases I-IV.  This part of the process requires expertise, accuracy and speed, as it is essential for a drug to get to market as soon as possible in order for the pharmaceutical company to receive a return on their initial investment.  People working in clinical operations are usually paid very good remuneration due to the importance of their role and the responsibility it carries.  The jobs they work in, tend to be contractual due to the nature of the work, but there are permanent positions available also as companies will transfer their workforce from one project to another.

Read our guide to clinical operations

Read the CRA job profile

CK Group, the leading independent staffing and recruitment company is proud announce we have received the Gold Award for service excellence from Agile-1.  

Directors Liam O’Connell and Lorna Crombie of CK Group accepted the award during Agile-1’s 2015 UK Supplier Excellence Summit, held on Thursday, 1 October at The Grange St. Paul’s Hotel in London, England.

CK is currently working with Agile-1 on two major pharmaceutical projects, providing scientific, technical and clinical staff via the company’s brands CK Science, CK IT and CK Clinical. 

Operations Director Liam O’Connell said, “We are of course delighted to accept this award on behalf of all the CK staff and contractors concerned and would like to thank every single one of them for their valued contribution.”

On Thursday 13^th August CK Science were honoured to award Vithusa Varnakulasingam from University of Sunderland for being the best performing student at her Industrial Placement in 2014.  As sponsors of the award, we were pleased to be able to present and award Vithusa’s achievements with a certificate and cheque.

Vithusa worked as an Analytical Chemist for Covance in Harrogate for 13 months, extended due to the value she added to the department, Vithusa excelled due to her love of lab work.

Praising her course, she said “The course at University of Sunderland has been perfect for me as it has given me broad science training, and the volume of lab work available gave me skills and knowledge which I was able to apply during my placement. This alongside the support given by the faculty, and the interview and cv training supplied by Barney at CK Science, has given all of us on the course the very best head start to either find our first job, or continue academically.”

Vithusa has a bright future ahead having graduated with a 1^st Class degree and further awards for best student over the entire course programme / best final year analysis; she plans to do an MSc or PhD in either drug chemistry or biopharmaceutical formulations.

CK Science have been supporters of University of Sunderland  for many years, having recognised their ability to teach young people industry relevant skills and provide the UK recruitment market with employable graduates. Their commitment to the Industrial Placement Programme ensures they maintain strong links with industry, giving them insight to future skills requirements. This dedication supports the university’s overall aim to be an innovative, accessible and inspirational university to students across the world.

CK Clinical Manager, Jim Gleeson was announced as runner up for the Best Client Experience award at the IRP Awards – The Institute of Recruitment Professionals.

These prestigious awards celebrate excellence in recruitment by honouring the achievements of individual recruiters and recruitment organisations across all disciplines.

The ceremony took place last night at the acclaimed Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel in London and the event was hosted by renowned broadcaster, writer and priest; Reverend Richard Coles.

A qualified biologist, Jim has been with CK for 5 years and his expertise is within the highly specialist clinical recruitment market where he has recruited throughout the world for niche, SME and global pharmaceutical organisations.

Jim is always willing to go the extra mile to provide excellent customer service, whether working unusual hours in different time zones or providing value added services.  He simply feels that it’s his job to do what it takes to ensure his clients find the right person for their position. Jim is, in essence, a compelling example of how to attain recruitment excellence.

“Having worked with Jim for 10 years I’m delighted he is getting the wider recognition he deserves. He’s one of the hardest working consultants I’ve known during that period and he consistently delivers for his candidates and clients time and time again. We are proud to have him as part of our team.” Ben Traies, Clinical Director

We are thrilled that Jim’s achievements have been recognised at the renowned IRP Awards and we would also like to congratulate the winner of the award.

Find out more about our team here.

Last night it was confirmed that CKA Group had won the 2013 Supplier Excellence Award for Science for the second year in a row.  Having been benchmarked and awarded against tough criteria which included our cost, compliance and performance metrics in the following areas:

1. Professionalism
2. Responsiveness
3. Quality
4. Problem Resolution
5. Partnership
6. Innovation

Jonathan Hart Smith, Managing Director of CKA Group has said, “Having been notified of our selection last month we have been anxiously awaiting the results and are absolutely thrilled to have won! Ultimately we value our relationship with Kelly Services and place great importance on our performance, which is clearly recognised and appreciated by Kelly.”

The EMEA Supplier Excellence Award Ceremony takes place on Monday 31^st March, and representatives from CKA Group will be there to accept the accolade.

Take a look at our other news here

CK Science are pleased to announce that CK Group, owners of the CK group of recruitment companies which includes CK Clinical and CK IT, have been selected as a semi-finalist for the 2013 Kelly’s Supplier Excellence Awards.

Nominations have been based on our cost, compliance and performance metrics in the following areas:

1. Professionalism
2. Responsiveness
3. Quality
4. Problem Resolution
5. Partnership
6. Innovation

Further evaluations will now be undertaken by the awards committee before finalists are notified. Having won last year for the 2012 awards, CK Science hopes to continue their success with Kelly and win the 2013 award.

CK Science consultant, Victoria Walker, last night won two of the coveted REC’s Institute of Recruitment Professional’s awards which recognises excellence in recruitment. Winner of the Permanent Consultant of the Year award, Vicki’s skill as a recruiter were further cemented when judges awarded her the Recruiter of the Year.

The awards ceremony, which was hosted by Newsnight presenter Jeremy Vine, took place at the London Marriott Hotel to recognise excellence in recruitment and saw nearly 500 people attend to support the Finalists.

Liam O’Connell, Operations Director and Founder of CK Science said of Vicki “Vicki is one of the hardest working members of the CK team. She is a very dedicated and popular member of the team and has excellent relationships with her clients who both like and trust her. I know everyone at CK would agree that she is a worthy winner and we are immensely proud of her win last night”.

Vicki, who has a First in Chemistry from Sheffield University as well as the Diploma in Recruitment Practice, started working for CK Science in 2010. She continues to develop and excel in her role due to her commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Vicki consistently received positive feedback from clients and candidates about her relationship management.

Vicki has spent the preceding months promoting recruitment as a career to Science graduates through her participation at the Sheffield University Science Fair and the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Chemistry World Jobs Live event. A committed role model, Vicki is the perfect winner for the Recruiter of the Year.

Visit Vicki’s profile

Last night CK Group’s Financial Director, Ashley Kirk, was recognised as a finalist at the Derbyshire Times Business Personality of the Year awards. The awards, which took place at Chesterfield’s Proact Stadium, honours local businesses and the contributions they have made to the region.

Up against some impressive figure heads from within the region, including the winner Andy Dukelow of Franke Sissons, Ashley is proud to have been recognised for his contributions. He said of being a finalist;

“I am very proud of what I have achieved building the CK Group and I am thrilled that the Derbyshire Times recognised my accomplishments by making me a finalist for the award. I would also like to congratulate Andy on his win“.

Ashley, who co-Founded CK Group in 1991, plays an influential part in the development of the CK Group which specialises in Scientific, Clinical and IT recruitment. Based at the companies head office in Chesterfield, Ashley takes strategic responsibility for the direction of the business, as well as the support functions.

CK Associates are thrilled to announce they have been presented with the exclusive 2012 Supplier Excellence Award for Science by Kelly Services at the official ceremony held last night in London.

Jonathan Hart Smith, MD of CK Associates, said, “Having supported Kelly Services with scientific recruitment since 2007 we are honoured to have been recognised for our hard work and hope this sees the continuation of a great partnership.”

John W Healy, Vice President and Talent Supply Chain Strategist, Kelly Services said, “As Kelly continues to apply increasing levels of management science and supply chain disciplines to our approach for delivering optimal workforce solutions, we continue to emphasize the value and importance of having the best supply chain model and supplier community supporting it.  We are pleased to honour our global supplier community with these awards.”

Kelly’s judging criteria were based on how suppliers supported multiple, strategic workforce solution programmes managed by Kelly in 2012.  They were also evaluated on their performance in the following areas:

• Program Scorecard Results
• Compliance
• Kelly Program Specific Survey Results
  1. Service Delivery
  2. Citizenship
  3. Partnership
  4. Innovation/Value Delivered
  5. Program Recommendation
• Supplier Awards and Recommendation Committee Approval

CK Associates background

CK Associates was established in 1991 as a recruitment company specialising in sourcing scientific and engineering staff for the chemical, environmental, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.  The CK Group now comprises three highly successful recruitment divisions trading as CK Science, CK Clinical and CK IT.  For more information visit www.ckagroup.co.uk