UKTMN Update - Letter from the Chair

Dear all,

I’m writing to share an important update regarding the leadership of UKTMN. After the privilege of serving as Chair since 2019, I have made the decision to step down from the role. It has been such an honour to lead the Network over the past six years—a role I’ve genuinely loved. This decision comes with mixed emotions, but it feels like the right time as I take on a new role within the University of Nottingham as Director of Global Engagement in the School of Medicine. I want to give both roles the attention they deserve and am not prepared to do either half-heartedly.

Reflecting on my time with UKTMN, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together. I’m especially grateful to Natalie Wakefield (UKTMN Manager), Tom Daykin (UKTMN Administrator), and our UKTMN Executive Group for their support, expertise and input. Among the highlights are:

• The development of the ASPIRE leadership programme 
• The launch of several new training courses 
• The creation of a national independent advisory group, ensuring trial managers have a voice at the national level
• The continued growth of our annual conference, which this year saw a record number of abstract submissions

I’m also particularly proud of the Network’s focus on professional development and the increasing recognition of the critical role played by trial management staff. I believe we’ve made significant strides in this area, and I’m excited to see this important work continue.

While I’m sad to be stepping away, I’m equally excited about the future of UKTMN. I’m delighted to announce that Sarah Lawton

, from Keele Clinical Trials Unit, will take on the role of UKTMN Chair. Sarah is Head of Operations at Keele and has been a valued member of the Executive Group for nearly a decade. She brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the future of the Network. Sarah and I will be working closely together over the coming weeks to ensure a smooth handover, and I have every confidence she will lead UKTMN brilliantly.

Although I’m stepping down as Chair, I’ll still be involved in the background. As UKTMN is hosted by the University of Nottingham, I will remain engaged as the organisation’s representative and join the Advisory Group in this capacity. I will also continue to work with Natalie and Tom as Sarah takes the reins.

Finally, thank you to all of you—our incredible members—who make UKTMN the vibrant, supportive community it is. Please keep sharing your expertise, engaging in Network activities, and learning from one another. I’m excited to see what the next chapter holds.

All the best

Eleanor Mitchell