With two and a half decades of experience, Shawntel M. Swannack has established herself as a distinguished professional in risk-based quality management. She currently serving as the head of risk-based quality management at The Emmes Company LLC. Emmes is a global contract research organization that partners with government agencies, biotech, and pharmaceutical companies to provide clinical research support, data analysis, and regulatory expertise. The company specializes in designing and managing clinical trials across various therapeutic areas, advancing public health through data-driven solutions.
In this role, Ms. Swannack utilizes her expertise to anticipate potential issues and implement strategies to prevent them, ensuring that appropriate processes and plans are in place, oversees data entry and making informed decisions that keep projects moving forward. She also utilizes her understanding of data at the patient level allows her to advocate effectively for patients’ needs, marking her as an expert in her domain.
Prior to her current role, Ms. Swannack was the director of central monitoring and data analytics at GSK plc from 2021 to 2024. In this capacity, she honed her skills in data-driven decision-making and problem-solving, which were instrumental in advancing the company’s clinical operations. Before becoming director, she served as a process manager in the same department from 2020 to 2021. Her career at GSK plc began in 2004 when she joined as a clinical research associate, a position she held until 2010. She then advanced to become a manager of data sciences from 2010 to 2020. Her journey in clinical research started at the Cancer Therapy Research Center, where she worked as a clinical research coordinator from 2000 to 2003.
In addition to her professional achievements, Ms. Swannack is actively involved in civic organizations, serving as vice president of meetings and a founding member of the Austin360 Chapter of the National Charity League Inc., since 2024. She has also served as a grade level coordinator for the Young Men’s Service League since 2021 and is a leader in risk-based quality management with PHUSE. She also shares her expertise through various industry conferences as a speaker and presenter on topics such as data science perspectives, clinical operations, and executive leadership. Laying an educational foundation, she earned a Bachelor of Science in health information management from Texas State University in 2000.
Reflecting on her path, Ms. Swannack attributes her professional growth to her deep appreciation for the global nature of health care. She recognizes the significant differences between health care systems worldwide and strives to develop comprehensive health plans that address global needs rather than focusing solely on the U.S. She also believes that her passion for driving innovation, promoting effective work strategies, and maintaining work-life balance sets her apart in the field. She excels at helping others develop, encouraging them to challenge conventional approaches and explore new solutions.
Ms. Swannack credits her success to her unwavering determination and the support of exceptional mentors who have provided her with invaluable opportunities to expand her influence. Looking to the future, she is committed to breaking down barriers imposed by COVID-19 on the health care sector by fostering innovative solutions that enhance patient care and streamline post-pandemic processes. She remains dedicated to driving efficiencies within the health care system by addressing present challenges rather than simply meeting expectations. Born in Lafayette, Ms. Swannack enjoys an active lifestyle outside of work. She spends her free time hiking, skiing, fishing, whitewater rafting, running, volunteering, and cherishing moments with her family.