CRS initiates new chapter by appointing leading industry expert Elisabeth Lackner as Chief Executive Officer

Mannheim, Germany, March 15, 2024 – CRS Clinical Research Services, an expert early-phase Contract Research Organization (CRO), today announced the appointment of Dr. Elisabeth Lackner as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective today. Tasked with leading the organization's future strategic direction, Dr. Lackner aims to drive internationalization of the business and to enhance the Company’s service portfolio with a focus on quality, innovation, and client satisfaction.

Dr. Elisabeth Lackner, CEO of CRS, commented: “I am honoured to join this great management team and to guide the organization into its next chapter of strategic growth and innovation. With its unique positioning in the clinical research market and the strong foundation built on quality, experience, expertise, and a team of remarkable people with a track record spanning over four decades, CRS is primed to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the dynamic landscape of clinical research.”

“In an era where the complexity of clinical studies is ever-increasing, there is a real need for indication expertise, technological advancements, and methodological proficiency. I am committed to leveraging our deep industry knowledge and enhancing the trend towards full-service offerings to meet the evolving needs of our clients,” Lackner said. “Together, we aim to propel CRS to new heights, centred on internationalization, strategic expansion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence."

Dr. Lackner is a highly experienced and well-respected global thought leader with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. She joins from Element Materials where she held the CSO position, responsible for driving technical excellence and ensuring continued scientific rigor across the business, accelerating growth and increasing the company’s global presence. Prior to this, she was Managing Director at Vineta, a family office focusing on long-term investments in Life Sciences. Previously, she led the merger of ABF Pharmaceutical Services and GBA Group Pharma, serving as the CEO of the GBA Pharma Division. As CEO, she turned the company from a national vendor into a trusted international partner for the pharma and biotech industries. Dr. Lackner also serves as a QP (Qualified Person) and is a respected advisor within the life sciences industry. She obtained a PhD in Pharmacy from the University of Vienna and a Master’s degree in Tumor Biology. She holds several board positions of listed and non-listed companies.

Daniel Sehrt, shareholder representative, added: "We are thrilled to welcome Elisabeth as the new CEO of CRS. With her extensive experience, network, and reputation, she brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic vision to our organization. Her appointment comes at an opportune time as we are executing our future growth strategy and navigate an increasingly complex landscape, marked by rapid advancements in technology and methodology. As the demand for disease expertise and patient centricity continues to soar, we are confident that Elisabeth is the ideal leader to steer CRS towards a successful joint future. We look forward to working closely with her to strengthen our position as a premier provider of early-phase clinical research solutions, delivering unparalleled quality and value to our clients and patients worldwide."

About CRS Clinical Research Services

CRS Clinical Research Services Management GmbH, a leading early-phase CRO and multi-indication specialist, operates multiple study sites across Germany with a capacity of 200 in-house beds. CRS excels in conducting clinical trials spanning from First-in-Human to Proof-of-Concept studies, demonstrating proficiency across diverse therapeutic areas.

Established in 2006, CRS has emerged as a trusted partner for biopharmaceutical companies of all sizes, offering tailored strategic outsourcing. Its specialized study sites and research facilities are renowned for their recruiting capabilities, catering to a wide range of indications, including metabolic, cardiovascular, dermatologic, and women's health studies.

At CRS, a commitment to the well-being of patients and healthy volunteers as well as respect underpin every aspect of operations, reflecting the organization's unwavering adherence to the highest ethical and medical standards. CRS ensures expedited approval times, dependable recruitment, and efficient trial conduct while maintaining rigorous standards of consistency, quality, and safety.

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