NextStage Clinical Research Appoints Melissa Holbrook, MSN, NP as Chief Operations Officer

HOUSTON, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- NextStage Clinical Research proudly announces the appointment of Melissa Holbrook, MSN, NP, as Chief Operations Officer, marking a bold step forward in the company's mission to transform how clinical research is delivered. With more than 20 years of experience spanning clinical care, research operations, and executive leadership, Melissa brings a deep and unique perspective to the role.

"I am excited to join a team that believes patients deserve research that fits into their lives, not outside of them."

Most recently serving as Head of Operations for Velocity Clinical Research, Melissa led the execution of global clinical research strategies across complex healthcare systems, driving performance excellence, streamlining operations, and elevating both patient care and research outcomes. A former clinician with a Master of Science in Nursing from Duke University, she has long understood the critical link between care delivery and clinical discovery.

"Melissa combines executive precision with a strategic understanding of our industry. Her experience with research makes her uniquely qualified to scale our integrated site network model," said Ned Schwing, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of NextStage Clinical Research.

Throughout her distinguished career, Melissa has led major operational initiatives, improved global site performance, launched offshoring initiatives, and developed staff engagement programs across research organizations and clinical institutions. Her work has spanned academic medical centers, cutting-edge research facilities, and emerging biotech partners always with a focus on bridging the gap between innovation and patient access.

"I have spent my career at the intersection of care and research," Melissa shared. "I am excited to join a team that believes patients deserve research that fits into their lives, not outside of them. And that same team also meets – exceeds – the needs of sponsors with whom we strive to create lasting partnerships."

Based in North Carolina, Melissa will oversee operations across NextStage's growing national footprint, guiding strategy, growth, and execution as the company continues to embed experienced research teams directly into the care environments patients already know and trust.

About NextStage Clinical Research

NextStage Clinical Research is dedicated to advancing medical science by conducting high-quality clinical trials across a broad spectrum of therapeutic areas. By rethinking the way clinical trials are delivered, NCR is embedding experienced research teams directly into trusted care settings. As an integrated site network with sixteen sites in the United States, NextStage is committed to improving access, diversity, and trust in the clinical research process. We believe we can do so while delivering high-quality results for sponsors and communities alike.

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SOURCE NextStage Clinical Research, LLC