Webinar: Emerging Clinical Trials in EECCA Test Run by Artem Holdings

WEBINAR ENDED

About This Webinar

The rapid global expansion of clinical trials, growing at an annual rate of over 10%, has underscored the critical need for greater patient diversity in research. To meet this demand, many sponsors are increasingly looking to emerging hubs across EECCA (Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia) such as Georgia, Ukraine, and CIS countries like Uzbekistan and Armenia. These regions offer immense potential, including diverse patient populations and cost-effective operations, but also pose unique challenges.

In this webinar, we will examine both the advantages and the disadvantages of conducting clinical trials in these emerging hubs. Through engaging panel discussions, we will tackle a key question: Are these challenges genuine risks, or can they be effectively mitigated with the right strategies?

Agenda

15:00 UTC I Opportunities VS Challenges for Patient Recruitment in EECCA
16:00 UTC I Deciphering the Regulatory Landscape in Emerging Hubs across EECCA

Presenters

Vadym Kutsenok

Director, Country Site Activation Head for Ukraine and Hungary IQVIA

Vadym Kutsenok, Director, Country Site Activation Head for Ukraine and Hungary at IQVIA, graduated from the National Medical University with a Medical Doctor degree and a PhD in Oncology. He holds 2 patents, has authored 2 monographs, and has approximately 50 publications in medicine. He has received awards from the Presidium of the National Academy of Science of Ukraine. Vadym started his career as a Clinical Research Associate in clinical trials with IQVIA in 2006. Throughout his roles as Manager of Clinical Operations, Clinical Project Manager, and Regulatory and Startup Head, he gained invaluable experience in startups and monitoring clinical trials. His expertise is centered on providing high-quality service in compliance with local legislation and global clinical trial regulations. Vadym seeks creative solutions with a practical approach to problem-solving and aims to build long-term, professional relationships with clients and stakeholders.

Olga Vizgalova

Regional Director CEE OXIMIO

Olga Vizgalova was appointed as Managing Director of Oximio UA in September 2022 and further promoted to Regional Director for Central Eastern Europe in October 2024. In this expanded role, Olga will oversee operations and growth strategy across these diverse markets, with a focus on enhancing our regional impact and forging deeper connections with our partners and clients. Serving as a member of the Senior Management Team, she has worked for Oximio since 2018. Originally joining as Investment Project Analyst, she became Investment Project Manager, and then Director of Regional Development and Investments. During these years, Olga has substantially contributed to developing the Investment Unit and geographical expansion of the business through the development and implementation of the GEO expansion strategy. She managed M&A and Greenfield projects and contributed to the development of the global partner network and launch of the new services. Olga has 10 years project management experience in the food and clinical trials industries.

Tamar Bolkvadze

Country MD Georgia OXIMIO

Responsible for operations in Georgia, Tamar has extensive experience working in both pharmaceuticals and clinical trials. Initially starting her career as a manager within pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution companies, she rose through the ranks to CEO. Thereafter she held roles as Head of Procurement and the Pharmaceutical Department for an immunology and chemotherapy clinic in addition to acting as Logistics for a non-governmental organization. Working within clinical trials, Tamar was previously the Logistics and Supply Manager for a CRO clinical supply unit before joining Oximio as a Pharmacist/RP, Country Head prior to her promotion to Managing Director. She was further promoted to Regional Director Southeastern Europe in October 2024 extending her remit across Georgia to Serbia, Bosnia, North Macedonia, Moldova, and Armenia.

Pavlo Garkaviy

Senior International Medical Director NOVO NORDISK

Pavlo Garkaviy, MD, PhD, MBA, is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of diverse industry experience spanning clinical development, medical leadership, and academia. Formerly as Clinical Research Manager, Team Lead, Global Safety Physician and Senior Medical Director at various Pharmas and CROs, he led clinical teams, designed and executed trials, delivered pivotal medical and scientific contributions, in clinical operations, pharmacovigilance, clinical research and development. With a deep commitment to excellence and a track record of high standards, Pavlo is always opened for new challenges to drive positive change and meaningful impact.

Alex Shakhov

Sr. Manager Clinical Trial Liaison, Global Site Management REGENERON

With 19 years of experience in clinical development, Alex brings a wealth of knowledge across all study phases. He earned his MD from St. Petersburg Pavlov State Medical University in Russia. Throughout his career, Alex has worked in various therapeutic areas, including oncology, neurology, rheumatology, endocrinology, pulmonology, gastroenterology, and rare diseases.

His true passion lies in oncology, where he is driven not only by the pursuit of treatments but by the goal of finding a cure. Alex is multilingual, fluent in Russian, with a basic understanding of French and Mandarin.

Outside of his professional life, Alex enjoys sailing, appreciating both the challenges and the tranquility that come with life on the open sea.

Dr Matthinda Hettiarachchi

Senior Project Director & Global Therapeutic Area Head- Renal GEORGE CLINICAL

Dr. Matthinda is a highly experienced clinical research professional with over 29 years of expertise across multiple therapeutic areas. Specializing in renal research, Manthi has successfully overseen teams across the APAC region and globally, managing complex projects from both large global pharmaceutical companies and small single-product biotech firms.

With over 15 years at George Clinical, Manthi has held significant roles, including sponsor liaison responsibilities, ensuring strong partnerships and efficient project execution. His career has also spanned leadership roles at renowned research institutions, such as the Garvan Institute, as well as at Contract Research Organizations (CROs) like Parexel and PPD.

Currently based in Australia and Sri Lanka, Manthi brings a wealth of global experience and a deep understanding of clinical research, making him a valuable asset to any clinical project.

Diana Matiashvili

Founder & CEO PASPIGIONI

Diana Matiashvili is the founder and CEO of Paspigioni, a CRO established in 2015 in Tbilisi, Georgia. With strong medical background, Diana has built Paspigioni into a trusted name in clinical research, committed to quality, excellence, and the cultural values of Georgia, such as integrity, respect, and problem-solving. Prior to founding Paspigioni, Diana gained extensive experience at ICON plc, where she played a key role in both the startup and monitoring of clinical trials, as well as in establishing operations in the new country of Georgia. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration and professionalism, building lasting relationships with clients and stakeholders. Diana’s visionary approach continues to shape the future of the industry, driving Paspigioni forward with a focus on innovation and excellence.