In the rapidly evolving landscape of clinical operations, April Dovholuk, currently serving as the SVP of Development Operations at Centessa Pharmaceuticals is a fountain of knowledge. With a career trajectory that has taken her from a Clinical Project Manager to a Senior Director at Takeda, April has been the driving force behind more than 160 clinical trials across the U.S. and Asia. This article helps uncover her unique approach to leadership, the transition from big pharma to small biotech, and the life events that fuel her passion for oncology research.

A Serendipitous Journey Into Clinical Operations

April’s entry into the field wasn’t by design but a result of her natural flair for connecting with people. Initially set on a career as a bench scientist, April found herself working in a clean room right out of college. But a candid conversation with her manager made her realize that perhaps she was better suited for a role that involved more interpersonal skills.

“I was told I distract everyone in the clean room with all my talking,” April chuckles. “It was a moment of realization. Maybe bench science wasn't for me. My manager suggested clinical operations, and I thought, why not?”

Her first role in clinical operations came with its own set of challenges. “They handed me a CRF, and I had no clue what it was. But the allure of something new and the promise of a pay raise at the age of 22 was too enticing to resist.”

Finding Her True North in Oncology

But the pivotal moment came when April transitioned to an oncology-focused company. Here, she found the work that made her "get up in the morning." She was part of groundbreaking research involving heat shock proteins and personalized vaccines for cancer patients.

“It was a revelation, finding something that I was not just good at, but also deeply passionate about,” April reflects.

April whose father was diagnosed with Cancer when she was 18, shared “That personal connection just fueled my commitment to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families. 

She continued: So, oncology was the thing I loved because of that probably first, and then I loved that it was constantly evolving.”And so I liked all of that. I thought that, you know, I could change the future for cancer patients, but I still do. You know, many years later, I still have that, you know, somewhat delusional hope. 

We pay testament to April's incredible resilience and also shine a light on the tireless work done across the industry by people driven to make positive change. 

A Team that Lasts

In an industry characterized by rapid change, April ability to build and sustain a cohesive team over an extended period is remarkable. She led a stable team for over a decade at Takeda, fostering a culture that prioritizes meaningful dialogue and mutual respect. "By engaging in conversations, you not only create a strong team spirit but also open doors for future opportunities," April says. It's clear that her approach to leadership, grounded in strong relationships and open communication, has been a cornerstone of her success.

But April's leadership philosophy goes beyond team-building; it also encompasses a human-centric approach to work-life balance. She candidly discusses her own maternity leave during a critical transition period at Takeda, providing an intimate look into the challenges women in leadership often face. “Such life events can be unsettling but also offer organizations an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to their employees,” she observes.

April’s expertise isn't limited to one sector of the industry; she has experience in both big pharma and small biotech firms, making her insights uniquely comprehensive. "Each setting has its challenges and rewards," she explains. Despite a cultural shift during her tenure at Takeda, she credits her time there for laying a strong foundation for her career. "Whether it’s the structured environment of a large pharma or the fast pace of a small biotech, the key is to adapt and find your fit," she advises.

One of the most impressive aspects of April’s career is the longevity of her team at Takeda. "Working with 80% of the same people for such an extended period speaks volumes about the culture and bonds we formed," she says. This element of continuity and loyalty is often overlooked but is an important marker of leadership success.

Building a Lasting Team: April's Tips

• Open Communication: April emphasizes the importance of meaningful dialogue and mutual respect within the team. This fosters a strong team spirit and opens doors for future opportunities.

• Adapt and Find Your Fit: April’s experience in both big pharma and small biotech teaches us the importance of adaptability. Leaders should be flexible to find their place in differing work environments.

• Work-Life Balance: April also discusses the importance of balancing professional and personal lives. She advocates for a culture that supports team members during life transitions, such as maternity leaves.

The Joys and Transitions of Sabbaticals

• Pre-Sabbatical Reflection: Before taking a sabbatical, April advises spending time in reflection. Consider your goals, what you want to accomplish during the break, and what the next steps in your career might be.

• Guilt-Free Time Off: April stresses the importance of guilt-free relaxation during a sabbatical. Whether it's reading a book or watching a movie, the time off is yours to spend as you wish.

• No Perfect Timing: Much like maternity leaves, there’s no ideal time for a sabbatical. The key is to make a decision, plan it out, and stick to it.

Transitioning Back to Work

• Energized Return: April felt an energy boost towards the end of her sabbatical, eager to dive back into work. This demonstrates the importance of a well-timed break to recharge mentally.

• Family and Work Balance: Upon return, April had to juggle new job responsibilities, her husband’s job change, and her kids’ new school year. Open communication within the family about expectations and schedules was crucial for a smooth transition.

• Routine and Adaptability: Despite initial challenges, April found that settling back into a work routine was quicker than expected. She credits this to good organization and planning, especially when life throws a curveball like unexpected travel or family obligations.

It was a pleasure to sit down with April, we hope her tips about bringing your caring side to management to be insightful.