An opportunity presents itself whenever a year ends to reflect on all that has been achieved. For ACTA, it has been a very big year and also the end of an era.
I am incredibly proud of all that we have achieved together during 2021 and feel confident that ACTA has further strengthened its position as a trusted and leading voice for our sector. Despite great disruptions due to COVID-19, this year, we made significant headway over the first year of our $5 million MRFF 2020 Enhancing Clinical Trials Network Capabilities Grant (2020-2024). We also undertook collaborative projects with the Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC), NSW Health and CT:IQ.
And very importantly, in November 2021, we finalised our first MRFF Grant: Strengthening the capacity, efficiency and effectiveness of Clinical Trials Networks through the Australian Clinical Trials Alliance (2017-2021).
Over the last four years, ACTA has developed significantly as a dynamic professional association, building on solid foundations to connect, support and facilitate collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the sector. And it is at this time of strength, that I have made the difficult decision to step down from my position as CEO and will be finishing up at the end 2021.
I am leaving the organisation at a time of great opportunity, and I know that the ACTA Board and team share a strong desire to make the most of this. I have complete confidence that ACTA will continue to grow and drive positive and impactful changes for the sector that ultimately benefits us all.
I am sincerely grateful to the ACTA Board and team, our Members and the ACTA Community. Together, and through your dedication, we have accomplished so much over the last four years, and ACTA is poised for great success in the years ahead. It has been a great privilege to work with and for you all, and I value the connections I have made.
I wish you an enjoyable holiday season with those you care about, and I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on all you have achieved during what has been another busy and difficult year for many. I hope that our paths may cross again in 2022 and beyond.
Warm regards,
Ms Simone Yendle
ACTA CEO