After joining Medpace at the very beginning of his career in an entry-level role, Senior Clinical Trial Manager Justin Tincher had no idea the twists and turns his career would take. He didn’t yet have a solid idea of what he wanted his career to look like, but now with nearly 13 years under his belt, Justin reflects on his time with Medpace. He discusses the lessons he’s learned, his journey from an entry-level role to a manager position, and advice for those who are at the beginning of their careers and might not see a clear career path… yet.
When Justin was looking to start his professional career, he had one box to check off his list: join a stable, growing company. While he was trying to better define his career goals, he discovered Medpace through a family member working as a Medical Writer at the time. Once Justin learned about Medpace’s growth plan, he was excited for the shape his career could take. This growth plan checked the box on his list, and he was sold.
Shortly after he started as an entry-level assistant, he established a relationship with a Clinical Research Associate Manager. Through this relationship, Justin discovered he had an earnest interest in clinical research and reached out to the hiring manager to see if he would make a good fit for their team. After he received the OK, Justin moved to Clinical Operations as a Clinical Research Associate (CRA). Here, he found his calling. His desire to conduct clinical research took off – no longer was he merely intrigued. He finally saw his career path, clear and right in front of him.
“I knew Medpace was a table and growing company, which was appealing for someone looking to start their professional career.”
Once he transferred to Clinical Operations, Justin spent four years as a CRA. He was then promoted to a Clinical Research Associate Manager before finally moving to his current role as a Clinical Trial Manager.
Spending almost 13 years at Medpace, Justin talks about having “grown up at Medpace.” With so many professional milestones to celebrate during this time, he explains, “I am professionally different in so many ways.” Moving from entry-level to a senior manager will come with its lessons, and Justin is no stranger to this. He reflected on the lessons he’s learned throughout the years, though the one he considers most is important is having difficult conversations. “Have the difficult conversations,” he says. “They are uncomfortable, potentially awkward, and nobody enjoys them… you’ll be amazed how many people will thank you at the end of a difficult conversation because you had the wherewithal, gumption, and respect to have the difficult conversation.”
Justin’s professional self from the beginning of his career shares one significant difference with his current professional self. Growing up as a young professional at Medpace helped Justin to align his mindset differently regarding the work he does. Now, the question “how does the work I do and the work of my organization benefit others?” is at the forefront of his mind. He is constantly thinking about how he can contribute to Medpace to impact others. “…It’s meaningful and benefits patients’ lives” Justin says. “…We are really at the forefront of advancing medical therapeutics.”
Justin shared that he quite enjoyed sitting back and evaluating his time over the years. One thing that he wishes those at the beginning of their career would take away is to “develop relationships with your leaders.” He emphasizes the importance of showing a genuine interest in engaging with the leaders around you even though they are busy. Justin explains, “any good leader will make time for it… they know that tomorrow’s leaders may be in entry-level positions today.”
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