“Behind every trial is a real person” – Catherine Opio builds Orion’s clinical operations in the US

What inspires you in your work?

My ethos has always been to provide the best possible outcome, even if we can’t offer a cure. If we can give someone a better life quality, that matters deeply to me. The patient is at the heart of everything.

I’ve worked across the world, and that global experience has shaped my belief that access and equity are just as important as innovation.

What does your workday look like?

No day is the same. Mornings usually begin with emails because time zones mean that by the time I start, half the world is already awake.

Much of my work involves problem-solving: supporting study teams on the ground, helping hospitals translate protocols into practice, and dealing with the hundreds of moving parts behind a clinical trial.

Some days are about strategy: how to execute the trial effectively, what adjustments are needed, and how to ensure the regulatory team has what they need for Food and Drug Administration (FDA) submissions from clinical operations.

Other days it’s about data, patient safety, or troubleshooting any clinical issues that may arise. I’m also the main contact for any clinical operational issues.

It all comes down to good project management: keeping to timelines, meeting targets, and ultimately delivering better outcomes for patients and Orion.

What moment has reminded you most powerfully why this work matters?

One of the most meaningful moments for me at Orion came during our training days. A patient who had taken part in an intervention came to share his story. Hearing about his journey – from diagnosis to treatment – was incredibly moving. He talked about the challenges, even down to the size of his pills. It reminded me that behind every trial and every data point is a real person.

Experiences like that humanise the work. They help us think differently: could we make the treatment easier to take, perhaps develop a patch instead of a pill, or introduce home nursing to reduce hospital visits? Those are career-defining moments.

What makes Orion unique?

Orion’s position: it’s expanding globally and growing fast in the US. That means it’s an exciting place and opportunities abound. I joined to work in pain therapy, but I’m also working in oncology, which in most big pharma companies would be rare. There’s flexibility and your expertise is trusted.

What I really value is Orion’s flat structure: everyone listens to you and there’s respect for each other’s skills. When I joined, I had fantastic support. Colleagues shared knowledge, guided me, and helped me navigate a new culture and new therapeutic areas. It’s a learning and growth environment.

If a younger colleague asked you why Orion is a good place to grow, what would you tell?

I’d say this: Orion a company where you can take ownership, contribute ideas, and be trusted from day one. You’ll be surrounded by smart, generous people who want you to succeed – and you’ll know that your work is helping patients live better lives.

Read Catherine’s thoughts on inclusion in research: Everyone can benefit from equity and diversity in clinical trials.