Meet the Team: Sakthivel Sivam, Senior Director, Biostatistics

In this installment of our “Meet the Team” blog series, we talk to Sakthivel Sivam, Senior Director, Biostatistics, about his industry experience, passion for helping his team members advance their careers, and which conferences he has found impactful.

Tell us a little bit about your background.
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Biostatistics from the University of Madras and my PhD in Biostatistics/Statistics from Manonmaniam Sundaranar University. I have more than 16 years of experience as a statistician, with leadership roles in the clinical research industry and specific therapeutic expertise within oncology, neuroscience, dermatology, respiratory, ophthalmology, infectious disease, and pain management.

My career began at the National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research as a statistician, and I have held roles at KINSHIP Technologies, GVK Biosciences, and ClinRX. In 2014, I began my work as Lead Biostatistician, prior to serving as Senior Manager – Statistics, Biostatistics for GSK India. I came to Veranex from GSK. Now, as the Senior Director, Biostatistics at Veranex, I support the organization’s strategic, technical, operational, and scientific leadership solutions.

What is the most interesting previous position you’ve had?
There have been several roles that I have found particularly impactful over the course of my career. Some of my favorite experiences have been contributing my industrial expertise in college syllabus formation as a board member. I’ve also enjoyed my work as an external auditor for academic institutions and various CROs. And, it is always an honor to be invited to co-chair and speak at various industry events.

What do you enjoy most about your role at Veranex?
I have always been intrigued by patient data and the impact that a strong statistical strategy can have on interpreting clinical outcomes. Our work has a real-world impact, and this helps drive my work every day.

I’m also passionate about helping people realize and develop their capabilities. It’s a wonderful feeling to know that I am helping my team members advance their careers.

Have you attended a fascinating conference recently?
Yes, several! One great aspect of my position at Veranex is that I am lucky enough to attend industry events all over the world. For instance, at the SCDM 2022 Annual Conference in San Diego this past September, I attended several interesting sessions regarding advancements in the clinical data management industry. I also had the chance to go to TECHSPARKS 2022 India, which is an industry event that focuses on tech start-ups in India.

What vacation destination are you dreaming of?
I hope to make it to Switzerland one day.