Network director takes up post to accelerate commercial research in the UK
Jenny Crooks has today joined the CRDC UK Network as Network Operations Director.
Jenny Crooks, Network Operations Director.
The Commercial Research Delivery Centre (CRDC) UK Network, established in September 2025, brings together 21 CRDCs and 14 Primary Care CRDCs to strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader in commercial clinical research. Supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in partnership with the pharmaceutical industry, the Network provides industry with fast, reliable, and consistent trial delivery at scale.
The first CRDCs launched in April 2025 to enhance the speed and efficiency of commercial research, boosting the UK’s global competitiveness and contributing to the health and wealth of the nation. By coordinating activities nationally, the Network acts to influence and increase impact, ensure alignment, capacity, and consistency across all centres.
Jenny explains:
“I am delighted to take on the role of CRDC UK Network Operations Director at a crucial moment for clinical research in the UK. With national efforts now aligning across policies and infrastructure, this is a significant opportunity to strengthen the UK’s position as a competitive and coordinated place to deliver commercial clinical trials—ultimately widening access for patients to innovative and potentially life-changing treatments.
“My experience spans NHS and academic settings, most recently as Deputy Managing Director at Liverpool Health Partners, where I supported system-wide collaboration, helped foster innovative partnerships with industry, and worked across organisations to improve research delivery and impact. Throughout my career, I have focused on bringing teams together, supporting effective governance, and enabling environments where research can progress smoothly and responsibly.
“As Operations Director, my priority will be to support the delivery of a coherent and efficient CRDC Network across the four nations. I will work closely with partners, industry, CRDC and PC-CRDC sites to ensure we provide a clear national offer, reduce variation, and help streamline set-up and delivery so trials can reach patients more quickly. I am particularly committed to promoting inclusive research, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring the Network operates with transparency, accountability, and a shared sense of purpose.
“Most importantly, I am dedicated to the work ahead. This role offers an opportunity to bring people together around a common aim: improving the ease, speed, and reach of commercial clinical research for the benefit of patients and the wider health system. I look forward to supporting the Network as we take this important step forward together.”
To enquire about working with the CRDC UK Network, contact: uhl-tr.crdcuk@nhs.net