Velocity Clinical Research is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Smiley, DO, FACP, as its new Chief Physician Officer (CPO), reinforcing the company’s commitment to clinical leadership as it continues to grow its global site network and deepen its therapeutic expertise.
Dr. Smiley is a seasoned physician investigator with nearly two decades of experience conducting clinical trials, including multiple internal medicine specialty indications and numerous vaccine trials. She has overseen more than 100 trials across various phases and indications.
Paul Evans, PhD, Velocity’s Chief Executive and President, said: ”Dr. Smiley is a trusted and pragmatic leader who brings deep clinical expertise and a clear vision for the future. She will play an essential role on our executive leadership team as we scale internationally and continue to innovate across our research network.”
As CPO, Dr. Smiley will oversee Velocity’s medical affairs function, lead the company’s regional medical directors, and ensure that the voice of the physician continues to be central to Velocity’s clinical strategy and operational decisions.
Dr. Smiley commented, “I’m looking forward to guiding Velocity’s impressive bench of principal investigators through this next pivotal stage of growth. Velocity’s strength lies in its people and across every site and therapeutic area, we have clinicians who bring not only deep medical expertise but also a genuine commitment to improving patient outcomes through research. It’s a privilege to help support and elevate this community as we continue driving innovation in clinical trials.”
Dr. Smiley succeeds Brandon Essink, MD, CPI, who has stepped down after serving in the role for nearly two years in order to pursue clinical opportunities. A respected physician and clinical research leader, Dr. Essink played a pivotal role in strengthening Velocity’s embedded site model, expanding its vaccine research capabilities, and mentoring investigators across the U.S.
Evans added, “We are immensely grateful to Brandon for his dedication, insight, and the impact he’s had on our business and culture during an important phase of growth at Velocity. We wish him the very best in his return to clinical practice.”
Dr. Smiley’s appointment reflects Velocity’s continued investment in medical leadership and its mission to deliver consistent, high-quality, patient-centered research at scale.
