Anita Sands

Anita Sands is Vice President and Unit Head of the Parexel London Early Phase Clinical Unit, one of the UK's leading centres for Phase I clinical research. With more than 25 years of experience across Phase I-IV clinical development, Anita is responsible for the strategic direction, operational performance, participant safety, quality, and commercial success of the unit. 

A registered nurse by background, Anita has built her career across clinical operations, research nursing, workforce development, quality, and executive leadership. She has successfully led the commissioning and development of multiple clinical research facilities and is passionate about building high-performing teams that deliver exceptional participant and client experiences. 

Anita is an active contributor to the UK early phase research community, working closely with industry partners, regulators, and healthcare stakeholders to advance clinical research and support innovation. She is committed to maintaining the highest standards of participant safety, quality, and operational excellence while helping position the UK as a global leader in early phase clinical development.