WASHINGTON, D.C. — January 29, 2024 — The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) is thrilled to announce the hiring of three subject-matter experts who will play pivotal roles in advancing the organization's global initiatives. With a focus on regulatory policy,technical advocacy, and pharmacovigilance, these individuals bring a wealth of experience that will strengthen PPTA and the plasma-derived therapies sector.All three began their PPTA tenure in early January.
James Knowles, Ph.D. joins PPTA as Senior Director, Head of Global Regulatory Policy. With nearly two decades of plasma industry experience, Dr. Knowles brings expertise in quality compliance, manufacturing,quality control, and the regulatory landscape. Having previously served in various roles at Grifols, including Senior Director of Global Regulatory Affairs, Dr. Knowles is a former member of the PPTA Global Regulatory Policy Working Group. Currently based in the greater Los Angeles area, he holds a Ph.D. in microbiology from London South Bank University and a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from the University of Lincoln (UK). "I am excited to use my industry experience to contribute to PPTA's mission and shape global regulatory policies for the advancement of plasma therapies," said Dr. Knowles.
Julia Fabens rejoins PPTA as Senior Director, Lead for Global Plasma and Technical Advocacy. With a background in international affairs and prior experience at PPTA as Assistant Director, International Affairs, Ms. Fabens is well-equipped to drive cross-functional collaboration and advance the understanding of the international plasma ecosystem. Most recently, she led South Asian advocacy efforts for the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). She holds a bachelor’s degree in international studies from Colby College (Maine, U.S.). Ms. Fabens will be based in the association’s Washington, D.C., office. “I am thrilled to be back at PPTA and look forward to driving programs that expand quality plasma collection and access to therapies worldwide," said Ms. Fabens.
Toby L. Simon, M.D., a seasoned professional and researcher in the field of plasma-derived therapies, joins PPTA in a part-time expert capacity to enhance PPTA's commitment to medical excellence. With a distinguished career as medical director at CSL Plasma and extensive involvement in PPTA and the broader medical community, Dr. Simon is an award-winning expert and author on the topic of pharmacovigilance and donor and product safety. He received his undergraduate degree from Johns Hopkins University and his medical degree from Washington University in St. Louis, followed by specialty training in internal medicine at Temple University Hospital and hematology and transfusion medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He is board certified in internal medicine, hematology, and blood banking/transfusion medicine. He will support PPTA from his home office in Albuquerque, New Mexico. "I am honored to contribute to PPTA's ongoing efforts in advancing medical knowledge that results in safe and effective plasma-derived therapies for patients around the globe. I also plan to contribute to the efforts of our member companies to assure a continuous improvement in the safety and comfort of the donor experience. We want our donors and employees to realize their contribution to the end goal of an adequate supply of these lifesaving and life-sustaining therapies," said Dr. Simon.
Anita Brikman, president and CEO of PPTA, expressed her enthusiasm about the new team members stating, "We are delighted to welcome Dr. Knowles, Ms. Fabens, and Dr. Simon to PPTA. Their collective expertise will play a crucial role in advancing our mission of ensuring donor and patient safety."
For more information about PPTA and its initiatives, please visit www.pptaglobal.org. For information on future career opportunities with PPTA, follow PPTA (North America and Europe, respectively) on LinkedIn.