Karisa Merrill

About Karisa Merrill

With over 25 years of experience in healthcare and research, I bring a proven track record of driving innovation, strategic growth, and operational excellence across complex, mission-driven environments. My career has been defined by a commitment to evidence-based practices, collaborative leadership, and impactful project execution. I specialize in strategic planning, project management, and cross-sector partnership development, consistently delivering results that enhance organizational performance. My leadership style is agile and results-oriented, fostering collaboration and efficiency while navigating dynamic challenges. I possess strong analytical and organizational skills, complemented by exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities. My expertise includes directing research initiatives, securing grant funding, and overseeing full-cycle program development—from implementation to evaluation. I have led quality assurance efforts, developed policies that ensure compliance and effectiveness, and resolved operational challenges with a focus on continuous improvement. Technically proficient, I leverage tools like Asana, SharePoint, Qualtrics, Adobe Acrobat, and various database systems to streamline workflows and drive data-informed decisions. I am passionate about advancing healthcare and research through strategic insight, operational rigor, and a deep commitment to meaningful impact.

Experience

1. Strategic Engagement Manager Organizational Project Manager

   Clinical Trials Transformation Initiative Ctti

   Sep 2019 — Present · Durham, NC, US

   Lead the development and execution of strategic initiatives that advance CTTI’s mission to improve the quality and efficiency of clinical trials. Serve as a trusted operational advisor, aligning project goals with organizational priorities and driving cross-functional collaboration. Design and implement innovative engagement strategies with member organizations to foster stakeholder alignment and accelerate clinical trial transformation. Oversee full lifecycle project management for high-impact initiatives, ensuring on-time delivery, budget compliance, and measurable outcomes. Champion customer success by cultivating strong partnerships and delivering value through data-informed decision-making and continuous improvement. Notable Achievements:• Led a cross-functional initiative to rebuild and modernize the organization’s database system, including the design of a centralized, interactive dashboard that visualizes real-time impact metrics—significantly enhancing data accessibility and decision-making across teams.• Spearheaded the development and expansion of a web-based case study exchange platform, accelerating the dissemination of clinical trial innovations and improving stakeholder engagement and customer success.• Designed and launched a Member Reports web application, providing real-time insights into organizational engagement and its influence on clinical trial policy and practice.• Developed and implemented a comprehensive onboarding process for patient and caregiver Steering Committee representatives, incorporating digital applications, structured interviews, and selection committees to ensure inclusive and effective representation.• Facilitated high-impact Steering Committee meetings, engaging cross-sector leaders from industry, government, academia, tech, and patient organizations to drive collaboration and advance clinical trial transformation.

Education

• Appalachian State University

  Bachelor of Science - BS

• Duke University

  Leadership in an Aging Society Internship Program

• Appalachian State University

  Master of Arts - MA