First hand experience at the SQA 40th Annual Meeting & Quality College

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I had the great pleasure of attending the SQA 40th Annual Meeting & Quality College in Aurora, Colorado from 06 – 11 April 2024. I was a speaker for 2 of the sessions: “ICH GCP E6 R3 Updates and Potential Impact” and “Full Stack Technology Use – Futuristic Trial”. It was excellent to share my research and thoughts on topics that interest me. It was a huge pleasure to share the stage with Dr. Chrissy Cochran, Director of the Office of Bioresearch Monitoring Operations at the FDA for the “ICH GCP E6 R3 Updates and Potential Impact” session. I took advantage of the Pharmacovigilance sessions available and attended the “Pharmacovigilance Auditing – Basic Training” Quality College to kick start my training in this audit type. Being able to learn from such experts in the field was the most valuable training I could have received and has got me excited to continue my learning. I furthered my existing knowledge attending GCP sessions, hearing fascinating insights and viewpoints. I also had the chance to interact with likeminded peers in the industry, leading to thought provoking discussions. To be able to cover all this in just a few days was amazing and I encourage anyone to attend if they are given the opportunity.

– Kim Ritchie

Senior Quality Assurance Auditor

 

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Madhavi Nadgouda
Co-Founder and CEO
Madhavi is a Co-founder and the CEO of RiverArk. As an entrepreneur, to date Madhavi has worked on two successful start-ups including RiverArk. Madhavi spearheads legal & commercial aspects and client relations within RiverArk. Dedicated and results-oriented chief executive with a wealth of experience in leading a growing and highly successful quality assurance consultancy. Proven track record of implementing robust quality management systems, driving operational excellence, and fostering client relationships. A strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, committed to delivering top-tier services and maintaining the highest standards of quality in all business operations. Combines strategic vision, operational expertise, and a passion for quality assurance to drive the success of RiverArk. With a focus on excellence and client satisfaction, continues to lead the company towards new heights, solidifying its position as a trusted partner in the quality assurance landscape.
Madhavi Nadgouda
Co-Founder and CEO
Madhavi is a Co-founder and the CEO of RiverArk. As an entrepreneur, to date Madhavi has worked on two successful start-ups including RiverArk. Madhavi spearheads legal & commercial aspects and client relations within RiverArk. Dedicated and results-oriented chief executive with a wealth of experience in leading a growing and highly successful quality assurance consultancy. Proven track record of implementing robust quality management systems, driving operational excellence, and fostering client relationships. A strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, committed to delivering top-tier services and maintaining the highest standards of quality in all business operations. Combines strategic vision, operational expertise, and a passion for quality assurance to drive the success of RiverArk. With a focus on excellence and client satisfaction, continues to lead the company towards new heights, solidifying its position as a trusted partner in the quality assurance landscape.
Milind Nadgouda
Co-Founder and Director Operations
Milind is a Quality Assurance professional, with more than 25 years of strategy experience as well as hands on expertise in operational oversight. He is the Co-founder and Director of operations at RiverArk Limited. His core competencies include inspection readiness, audit strategy, risk strategy and management, gap assessment and quality assurance. His expertise on quality strategy and regulatory compliance has been derived from hands-on real-world experience. So far in his career, Milind has been in the frontline during GxP inspections and has on several occasions been in the back room supporting the teams at high-ranking pharmaceutical companies for inspections. He sees himself as a problem solver and a solution provider.
Milind Nadgouda
Co-Founder and Director Operations
Milind is a Quality Assurance professional, with more than 25 years of strategy experience as well as hands on expertise in operational oversight. He is the Co-founder and Director of operations at RiverArk Limited. His core competencies include inspection readiness, audit strategy, risk strategy and management, gap assessment and quality assurance. His expertise on quality strategy and regulatory compliance has been derived from hands-on real-world experience. So far in his career, Milind has been in the frontline during GxP inspections and has on several occasions been in the back room supporting the teams at high-ranking pharmaceutical companies for inspections. He sees himself as a problem solver and a solution provider.
Ryan Schön
Project Manager
With over a decade of extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in Project Management. Holding Prince2 certifications, I have demonstrated my capability to manage and deliver projects effectively and efficiently, ensuring high standards and successful outcomes. Throughout my career, I have gained valuable expertise across various facets of the pharmaceutical sector, including production planning and buying, document control, training coordination, logistics planning, and pharmacy dispensing. This diverse background has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the industry's complexities and the ability to navigate through them accordingly. My journey in this field has been marked by a continuous drive to learn and develop. I take pride in my ability to focus on clients and patients, ensuring that their needs are always at the forefront of my work. My attention to detail and easy-going nature allow me to build strong working relationships, fostering a collaborative environment where projects thrive. I firmly believe that the effort you invest directly influences the results you achieve. This principle guides my work ethic and dedication to every project I undertake. I look forward to continuing to contribute to the pharmaceutical industry with my project management expertise, always striving for excellence and client satisfaction.
Ryan Schön
Project Manager
With over a decade of extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in Project Management. Holding Prince2 certifications, I have demonstrated my capability to manage and deliver projects effectively and efficiently, ensuring high standards and successful outcomes. Throughout my career, I have gained valuable expertise across various facets of the pharmaceutical sector, including production planning and buying, document control, training coordination, logistics planning, and pharmacy dispensing. This diverse background has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the industry's complexities and the ability to navigate through them accordingly. My journey in this field has been marked by a continuous drive to learn and develop. I take pride in my ability to focus on clients and patients, ensuring that their needs are always at the forefront of my work. My attention to detail and easy-going nature allow me to build strong working relationships, fostering a collaborative environment where projects thrive. I firmly believe that the effort you invest directly influences the results you achieve. This principle guides my work ethic and dedication to every project I undertake. I look forward to continuing to contribute to the pharmaceutical industry with my project management expertise, always striving for excellence and client satisfaction.
Mariam Hussain
Project Manager
Mariam began her career in the pharmaceutical industry after completing her Bachelors in English, initially joining a pharmacovigilance company where she played a key role in ensuring drug safety and regulatory compliance. Building upon her experience, Mariam transitioned into a Project Manager at RiverArk where she oversees successful execution of projects, coordinates project activities and collaborates with clients and consultants to ensure timely achievement of objectives. As a Prince2 and Agile certified Project Manager, Mariam’s aim is to deliver projects in line with RiverArk’s values of excellence, professionalism, integrity, communication.
Mariam Hussain
Project Manager
Mariam began her career in the pharmaceutical industry after completing her Bachelors in English, initially joining a pharmacovigilance company where she played a key role in ensuring drug safety and regulatory compliance. Building upon her experience, Mariam transitioned into a Project Manager at RiverArk where she oversees successful execution of projects, coordinates project activities and collaborates with clients and consultants to ensure timely achievement of objectives. As a Prince2 and Agile certified Project Manager, Mariam’s aim is to deliver projects in line with RiverArk’s values of excellence, professionalism, integrity, communication.
Tiffany Swift
Project Administrator
Tiffany brings over 30 years of experience in business development, administration, and project coordination to their current role at RiverArk. As a Project Administrator, they enjoy a varied and interesting position that allows them to oversee seamless operations and ensure exceptional service to clients and colleagues. She is currently studying for her Prince2 7 Foundation & Practitioner qualification to further her knowledge and utilise her many skills in this area. Tiffany is proud to contribute to the success and excellence of RiverArk.
Tiffany Swift
Project Administrator
Tiffany brings over 30 years of experience in business development, administration, and project coordination to their current role at RiverArk. As a Project Administrator, they enjoy a varied and interesting position that allows them to oversee seamless operations and ensure exceptional service to clients and colleagues. She is currently studying for her Prince2 7 Foundation & Practitioner qualification to further her knowledge and utilise her many skills in this area. Tiffany is proud to contribute to the success and excellence of RiverArk.
Amy King
Project Administrator
As a Project Administrator, I am responsible for assisting the Project Manager in ensuring all projects run smoothly and all timelines are met. I have been at RiverArk for almost a year now and since joining, have learnt some incredibly valuable skills that have helped me develop my understanding of the industry and enhance my ability to deliver projects to a high standard. I have a strong background in administration, and I am now completing my Prince 2 Foundation and Practitioner certification to further develop my project management skills – I hope to continue to build on these throughout my time at RiverArk.
Amy King
Project Administrator
As a Project Administrator, I am responsible for assisting the Project Manager in ensuring all projects run smoothly and all timelines are met. I have been at RiverArk for almost a year now and since joining, have learnt some incredibly valuable skills that have helped me develop my understanding of the industry and enhance my ability to deliver projects to a high standard. I have a strong background in administration, and I am now completing my Prince 2 Foundation and Practitioner certification to further develop my project management skills – I hope to continue to build on these throughout my time at RiverArk.
Kim Ritchie 
Senior Quality Assurance Auditor
A Forensic Sciences graduate who started of their graduate career working in the laboratory, learning the importance of working to regulations. This appreciation led to a switch in career to pharmaceutical auditing within a large CRO and now being a Senior QA Auditor, with over 5 years of experience in GxP auditing specialising in GCP, GCLP and GLP. Experienced in vendor audits, investigator site audits, TMF audits, process audits and internal audits. Knowledgeable with training, process improvement projects, inspection readiness projects and QMS projects.
Kim Ritchie 
Senior Quality Assurance Auditor
A Forensic Sciences graduate who started of their graduate career working in the laboratory, learning the importance of working to regulations. This appreciation led to a switch in career to pharmaceutical auditing within a large CRO and now being a Senior QA Auditor, with over 5 years of experience in GxP auditing specialising in GCP, GCLP and GLP. Experienced in vendor audits, investigator site audits, TMF audits, process audits and internal audits. Knowledgeable with training, process improvement projects, inspection readiness projects and QMS projects.
Loveleen Kukreja
Principal QA Auditor
A post graduate life scientist with 10 years of Quality Assurance and Quality Systems experience in Clinical Research. Extensive experience of conducting GCP, GVP and GCLP audits in multiple geographies. Hands on expertise in Vendor audits, Investigator site audits, process audits and systems audits. Adroit at imparting conventional GCP training and inspection readiness training. Firsthand experience in hosting competent authority inspections. Deep knowledge on systems improvements and continuous improvements and tactful at using multiple methodologies. Assisted in QA review of Computer Systems Validation documentation.
Loveleen Kukreja
Principal QA Auditor
A post graduate life scientist with 10 years of Quality Assurance and Quality Systems experience in Clinical Research. Extensive experience of conducting GCP, GVP and GCLP audits in multiple geographies. Hands on expertise in Vendor audits, Investigator site audits, process audits and systems audits. Adroit at imparting conventional GCP training and inspection readiness training. Firsthand experience in hosting competent authority inspections. Deep knowledge on systems improvements and continuous improvements and tactful at using multiple methodologies. Assisted in QA review of Computer Systems Validation documentation.
Ashok Kumar
Principle GXP QA Auditor
Ashok Kumar G is a distinguished professional with a wealth of experience in Pharmacovigilance, clinical trials, and Quality Assurance. With a career spanning over 17 years, Ashok has honed his expertise in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of pharmaceutical products. His unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards has made him a trusted leader in the industry. Beyond his professional achievements, Ashok is an avid reader who finds joy and inspiration between the pages of a good book. Whether it's diving into the latest medical research or exploring works of fiction, he believes in the power of literature to broaden the mind and ignite the imagination. His journey in Pharmacovigilance, clinical trials, and Quality Assurance is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. His meticulous attention to detail and strategic approach have led to the successful execution of numerous complex projects, earning him accolades from colleagues and clients alike.
Ashok Kumar
Principle GXP QA Auditor
Ashok Kumar G is a distinguished professional with a wealth of experience in Pharmacovigilance, clinical trials, and Quality Assurance. With a career spanning over 17 years, Ashok has honed his expertise in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of pharmaceutical products. His unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards has made him a trusted leader in the industry. Beyond his professional achievements, Ashok is an avid reader who finds joy and inspiration between the pages of a good book. Whether it's diving into the latest medical research or exploring works of fiction, he believes in the power of literature to broaden the mind and ignite the imagination. His journey in Pharmacovigilance, clinical trials, and Quality Assurance is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. His meticulous attention to detail and strategic approach have led to the successful execution of numerous complex projects, earning him accolades from colleagues and clients alike.
Bala Bhargav Podduturi
Quality Officer
A double postgraduate in Chemistry and Drug design and Discovery from the University of Salford. With two years of experience in Quality and data research analysis in the Pharma, I am currently working as a Trainee Auditor and Quality Officer at RiverArk. Involved in audits across all GxPs, primarily within the GMP/GLP QA. Assisted in a few GCP and GVP audits as well. I am also the training coordinator responsible for the induction training of new hires. As a Quality officer I am responsible for the tracking and coordinating of of CAPAs and CAPA closures, Change controls, Internal audit schedules, ISO 9001 certification audits, Deviations and other QMS related activities.
Bala Bhargav Podduturi
Quality Officer
A double postgraduate in Chemistry and Drug design and Discovery from the University of Salford. With two years of experience in Quality and data research analysis in the Pharma, I am currently working as a Trainee Auditor and Quality Officer at RiverArk. Involved in audits across all GxPs, primarily within the GMP/GLP QA. Assisted in a few GCP and GVP audits as well. I am also the training coordinator responsible for the induction training of new hires. As a Quality officer I am responsible for the tracking and coordinating of of CAPAs and CAPA closures, Change controls, Internal audit schedules, ISO 9001 certification audits, Deviations and other QMS related activities.
Anip Damle
Interim Project Coordinator
Anip, an engineer by education, transitioned into the Pharma industry driven by his dedication to quality. With a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Northumbria University, his passion for quality led him into the Pharma-Biotech sector, focusing on GxP compliance. Anip specializes in ISO 13485 for Medical Devices and ISO 9001. He is also a Green Belt in Lean Six Sigma. he is working as an interim project coordinator for the RA team at RiverArk also As a trainee auditor at RiverArk, he is involved in GxP audits, primarily within the GCP QA arena, while also training in GVP QA areas. His career at RiverArk includes working in cross-functional teams. Anip started with several quality initiatives using Six Sigma, Kaizen, and Lean techniques. Anip’s commitment to success is evident through his track record of academic and project achievements. He is dedicated to finding innovative solutions and continuously striving for excellence in all his endeavours.
Anip Damle
Interim Project Coordinator
Anip, an engineer by education, transitioned into the Pharma industry driven by his dedication to quality. With a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Northumbria University, his passion for quality led him into the Pharma-Biotech sector, focusing on GxP compliance. Anip specializes in ISO 13485 for Medical Devices and ISO 9001. He is also a Green Belt in Lean Six Sigma. he is working as an interim project coordinator for the RA team at RiverArk also As a trainee auditor at RiverArk, he is involved in GxP audits, primarily within the GCP QA arena, while also training in GVP QA areas. His career at RiverArk includes working in cross-functional teams. Anip started with several quality initiatives using Six Sigma, Kaizen, and Lean techniques. Anip’s commitment to success is evident through his track record of academic and project achievements. He is dedicated to finding innovative solutions and continuously striving for excellence in all his endeavours.
Daniel Bennett
Sr. Quality Consultant
Daniel Bennett is a seasoned professional known for his leadership and expertise in Trial Master File (TMF) management, likening the TMF to the fruit growing from the GCP quality system tree. With a robust background in analytics and a rigorous approach to continuous process improvement, Daniel has contributed to the development of many company procedures to improve GXP compliance. His career includes working in cross-functional teams at small and medium-sized biotechs, major pharmaceutical companies, as well as for CROs, and specialist vendors. An industry speaker on metrics, quality control, continuous improvement, and team culture, Daniel is an experienced trainer. He brings a passion for clear and concise communication to each project. He is a passionate believer that complex system are built out of small interconnected parts, and is rarely happier than when he gets to tinker with standard operating procedure documents.
Daniel Bennett
Sr. Quality Consultant
Daniel Bennett is a seasoned professional known for his leadership and expertise in Trial Master File (TMF) management, likening the TMF to the fruit growing from the GCP quality system tree. With a robust background in analytics and a rigorous approach to continuous process improvement, Daniel has contributed to the development of many company procedures to improve GXP compliance. His career includes working in cross-functional teams at small and medium-sized biotechs, major pharmaceutical companies, as well as for CROs, and specialist vendors. An industry speaker on metrics, quality control, continuous improvement, and team culture, Daniel is an experienced trainer. He brings a passion for clear and concise communication to each project. He is a passionate believer that complex system are built out of small interconnected parts, and is rarely happier than when he gets to tinker with standard operating procedure documents.
Joshua Marsh
Senior QA Auditor
Joshua Marsh is an experienced auditor with a background in Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP), and ISO 15189. He has experience of performing external auditors including Contract Research Organisations (CROs), Investigator Sites, and sample storage facilities to GCP; bioanalytical laboratories to GLP and GCLP; and central laboratories to ISO 15189. Joshua has worked as an internal auditor at laboratories that perform bioanalysis on behalf of clinical trials and preclinical trials and has experience of developing and maintaining Quality Management Systems (QMS); performing study-based inspections, process-based inspections, and facility-based inspections; and leading Corrective and Preventative Action (CAPA) investigations. Joshua holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Hull and is a member of the Research Quality Association (RQA). He remains up to date with GCP, GLP, GCLP and ISO 15189 regulations. Joshua is committed to delivering the best possible quality of audit by working closely with clients to ensure the scope of audits are understood and fulfilled, and communicating clearly with auditees to ensure the audit is of value to all involved.
Joshua Marsh
Senior QA Auditor
Joshua Marsh is an experienced auditor with a background in Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP), and ISO 15189. He has experience of performing external auditors including Contract Research Organisations (CROs), Investigator Sites, and sample storage facilities to GCP; bioanalytical laboratories to GLP and GCLP; and central laboratories to ISO 15189. Joshua has worked as an internal auditor at laboratories that perform bioanalysis on behalf of clinical trials and preclinical trials and has experience of developing and maintaining Quality Management Systems (QMS); performing study-based inspections, process-based inspections, and facility-based inspections; and leading Corrective and Preventative Action (CAPA) investigations. Joshua holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Hull and is a member of the Research Quality Association (RQA). He remains up to date with GCP, GLP, GCLP and ISO 15189 regulations. Joshua is committed to delivering the best possible quality of audit by working closely with clients to ensure the scope of audits are understood and fulfilled, and communicating clearly with auditees to ensure the audit is of value to all involved.
Aleksandra Rickman
Business Development Manager
Aleksandra Rickman is a commercially focused professional with a strategic and analytical mindset, excelling in defining challenges and crafting profitable solutions. In business development and sales within the biotech industry, her passion lies in bridging the gap between science and business. Awarded a 40 Under 40 by XODUS in Life Sciences prize, Aleksandra is also the founder of Life Sciences SheNetwork, an initiative dedicated to empowering women in the Life Science industry and facilitating fundraising for women-owned ventures. Outside of her professional pursuits, she enjoys exploring art galleries, and swimming lengths in the pool.
Aleksandra Rickman
Business Development Manager
Aleksandra Rickman is a commercially focused professional with a strategic and analytical mindset, excelling in defining challenges and crafting profitable solutions. In business development and sales within the biotech industry, her passion lies in bridging the gap between science and business. Awarded a 40 Under 40 by XODUS in Life Sciences prize, Aleksandra is also the founder of Life Sciences SheNetwork, an initiative dedicated to empowering women in the Life Science industry and facilitating fundraising for women-owned ventures. Outside of her professional pursuits, she enjoys exploring art galleries, and swimming lengths in the pool.
Tina Huang
Business Development Manager
Tina Huang is a sales professional with a strong background in nursing, medical writing, and expertise in quality assurance, regulatory affairs, medical affairs, and business development within the biopharmaceutical sector. She excels at navigating complex regulatory frameworks and clinical trial processes, crafting strategies that drive growth and deliver results. With a keen eye for emerging market opportunities, Tina's approach ensures each client's needs are met with tailored solutions—ensuring compliance and fostering partnerships. Her experience working with international teams and global clients enables her to navigate cultural complexities and meet regulatory standards across diverse markets.
Tina Huang
Business Development Manager
Tina Huang is a sales professional with a strong background in nursing, medical writing, and expertise in quality assurance, regulatory affairs, medical affairs, and business development within the biopharmaceutical sector. She excels at navigating complex regulatory frameworks and clinical trial processes, crafting strategies that drive growth and deliver results. With a keen eye for emerging market opportunities, Tina's approach ensures each client's needs are met with tailored solutions—ensuring compliance and fostering partnerships. Her experience working with international teams and global clients enables her to navigate cultural complexities and meet regulatory standards across diverse markets.
Mariam Garelnabi
Brand Engagement Manager
Having completed my education in genetics, immunology and microbiology, I have a proven track record in GCP and GCLP in both research and industry roles. Following the completion of my doctoral studies and postdoctoral appointment, I transitioned into medical affairs and then into sales and marketing for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. I recently joined RiverArk as a Sales Development Representative, and I am excited to leverage my knowledge, experience and collaboration skills to ensure that RiverArk’s services within GxP continue to bring value to its clients.
Mariam Garelnabi
Brand Engagement Manager
Having completed my education in genetics, immunology and microbiology, I have a proven track record in GCP and GCLP in both research and industry roles. Following the completion of my doctoral studies and postdoctoral appointment, I transitioned into medical affairs and then into sales and marketing for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. I recently joined RiverArk as a Sales Development Representative, and I am excited to leverage my knowledge, experience and collaboration skills to ensure that RiverArk’s services within GxP continue to bring value to its clients.
Iram Iqbal
Associate Director
A Life Science postgraduate with 13 years' experience in Quality Assurance. Experience in conducting GCP, GLP and GCLP audits. Has expertise in conducting Vendor, Investigator site, process and systems audits, inspection readiness and performing gap analysis.
Iram Iqbal
Associate Director
A Life Science postgraduate with 13 years' experience in Quality Assurance. Experience in conducting GCP, GLP and GCLP audits. Has expertise in conducting Vendor, Investigator site, process and systems audits, inspection readiness and performing gap analysis.
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