At PSI, we know that talent can come from many places. For Jon, a Clinical Operations Manager based in Durham, North Carolina, that place was the classroom. Before joining PSI, Jon spent his early career as a teacher. The skills he developed there, including clear communication, adaptability, and a commitment to meaningful work, translated seamlessly into the world of clinical research.
“What initially drew me to PSI,” Jon shares, “was the shared foundation between education and clinical research; both fields are centered around curiosity, structure, and impact.” While his background was unconventional, Jon saw PSI as an organization that valued purpose, training, and operational excellence, making it a natural fit for the next chapter of his career.
Building a Foundation and Embracing New Opportunities
Jon began his career at PSI as a Clinical Trial Administrator, now known as a Site Management Associate. “It was the perfect introduction to the industry,” he says. “That role taught me the fundamentals: how every moving part within a study connects, and the importance of quality and collaboration.”
A significant turning point in his journey came when the first study he supported received FDA approval. “It was a moment that made everything click. I saw firsthand how the work we do directly impacts patients. That experience gave me a deep sense of purpose and solidified my commitment to this field.”
As Jon grew within PSI, he brought with him the resilience, determination, and collaborative mindset that shaped his career in education. While transitioning into a new industry wasn’t without its challenges, Jon credits PSI’s culture for helping him succeed, “PSI took a chance on me and backed it up with the training, mentorship, and support I needed to thrive.”
Leadership, Growth, and Paying It Forward
Over time, Jon’s desire to give back led him toward leadership roles. “I wanted to invest in others the way my mentors at PSI had invested in me,” he explains. “Leadership, to me, means supporting your team, building trust, and creating space for people to grow.”
His development continued through PSI’s Explorers Leadership Training and the Top 10% Program; experiences that provided not just technical leadership tools but a deep sense of connection. “The Explorers program, especially the Alaska trip, was incredibly impactful. It brought together people from across the company and gave us space to reflect, share, and strengthen our leadership skills.”
Now a Clinical Operations Manager, Jon says his career journey has been both meaningful and motivating. “I’m proud to be part of a company that has grown while staying true to its commitment to high-quality work, collaboration, and a culture of genuine care for both employees and patients. That’s what makes PSI special.”
Jon’s advice to new team members is simple, “Embrace the high expectations, because they come with high support. PSI will invest in you, but it’s up to you to take initiative. Be curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out.”
Interested in taking the next step in your career? Discover what makes PSI so unique and explore our open job opportunities.
