The QP Diaries, by AssureBio

In this episode of The QP Diaries, we’re joined by Damian Larrington — an experienced and eligible Qualified Person under 2001/83/EC and 2001/20/EC, with a background spanning aseptic, biologic, ATMP, IMP, terminally sterilised, and solid dose products.We explore Damian’s journey to becoming a QP, what it truly means to be “the right person” for the role, and how to balance study, work, and personal growth in a highly regulated environment. Damian shares practical insight on the importance of practicing difficult conversations, what QPs need to prepare for in an AI-driven global landscape, and the critical challenges facing today’s pharmaceutical quality professionals. Whether you're a trainee QP, seasoned professional, or just curious about the future of Quality, this episode is packed with perspective, honesty, and invaluable advice from one of the industry’s most grounded voices.

In this episode, Dal sits down with David Waddington, a true veteran of the pharmaceutical quality landscape, whose career spans over 30 years across global roles in QA, manufacturing, and regulatory compliance. From his first steps toward becoming a Qualified Person (QP) to leading international quality teams at major pharmaceutical organizations, Dave shares a career built on embracing opportunities, adapting to challenges, and mentoring the next generation of quality professionals. Now part of the team at NSF and formerly Quality Director, Global Regulatory Compliance at Catalent, Dave brings a wealth of insight into EU and FDA GMPs, auditing excellence, and international compliance. Whether you're an aspiring QP or a seasoned QA leader, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, candid reflections, and career-defining lessons.

With over 16 years of pharmaceutical experience, Uche Ekwuozor is a Chartered Chemist, Chartered Scientist, and Qualified Person (QP) renowned for his deep expertise in sterile products, biologicals, and GMP compliance. From leading MHRA remediation projects to overseeing global quality operations at top pharmaceutical firms like BMS/Celgene and MSD Animal Health, Uche brings a wealth of insight into Quality Risk Management, QMS integration, and regulatory strategy.In this episode, we dive into Uche's impressive journey—from working across clinical and commercial manufacturing environments to becoming a key figure in shaping quality systems, coaching future QPs, and navigating complex audits and compliance challenges. A true advocate for operational excellence and continuous improvement, Uche shares valuable lessons and bold perspectives on what it takes to lead in pharmaceutical quality today.

In this episode of the QP Diaries podcast, host Dal interviews Mark King, who has over 30 years of experience in Quality based roles within the pharmaceutical industry. Mark is a Qualified Person under the permanent provisions since March 2001, and a former QP Assessor, Vice Chair and Chair of the Royal Society of Biology QP Assessors Panel.During the episode, Mark shares insights from his career journey and offers valuable advice to QPs and trainees. This includes sharing his best tips with trainees preparing for their VIVA, as well as rare insights into his experience as a panel assessor. The discussion also delves into mergers and acquisitions and managing site closures from a QP's perspective, giving important guidance for anyone wishing to further their understanding of the pharmaceutical sector.

Welcome to the QP Diaries podcast! In this episode of the QP Diaries podcast, host Dal Pawar interviews Rebecca, a seasoned quality assurance professional and qualified person (QP) in the UK pharmaceutical industry. They discuss various aspects of Rebecca's career, including her journey as a QP, her expertise, and her accomplishments. The episode focuses on leadership, team collaboration, tools and methodologies used in quality assurance, and advice for aspiring QPs. Listeners will gain insights into the world of quality assurance and learn from Rebecca's experiences as a leader in the industry. Tune in to this inspiring episode to empower your career in quality assurance.

Welcome to the QP Diaries podcast! In this episode of the QP Diaries podcast, host Dal Pawar speaks with a seasoned qualified person (QP) in the pharmaceutical industry. They discuss the guest's career journey and provide valuable advice for aspiring QPs. Additionally, they delve into the topic of working on remediation projects in the industry. With over 30 years of experience, the guest shares their insights and expertise, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in quality assurance and the pharmaceutical industry. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and inspiration for your own QP career.

Welcome to the QP Diaries podcast! In this episode of the QP Diaries podcast, host Dal Pawar speaks with qualified QP, Kevin Currie, from the pharmaceutical industry. They discuss the importance of inspiring and empowering the next generation of QPs and share their personal story and expertise. Kevin shares how their career started in a laboratory working with chemicals and how they learned critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Tune in to this episode to gain insights into the world of QPs and learn from industry thought leaders. Key moments 00:00:10 - Introduction to QP Diaries Podcast 00:00:52 - Inspiring the Next Generation of QPs 00:01:12 - Kevin's Career Beginnings 00:02:17 - Transition to the Pharmaceutical Industry 00:03:33 - Leadership and Management Lessons 00:05:36 - Becoming a Qualified Person (QP) 00:07:28 - Importance of Relationships for QPs 00:08:11 - The Viva Experience 00:09:00 - Career Progression Post-Qualification 00:10:02 - Contracting and Remediation Work 00:12:23 - Training and Mentoring 00:14:09 - Quality Culture and Senior Management 00:15:14 - Key Milestones and Learnings 00:17:23 - Empowering Team Members 00:19:10 - Communication and Building Relationships 00:21:16 - Leadership vs. Management 00:22:22 - Selecting the Right QP Candidates 00:23:47 - Collaboration and Managing Upwards 00:26:01 - Importance of Root Cause Analysis 00:28:45 - Empowering Others to Lead 00:31:17 - Managing Upwards and Assertiveness 00:33:08 - Building Relationships Across Departments 00:35:22 - The Future of the QP Role 00:37:01 - Advice to Younger Self 00:38:06 - Keeping Up with Changing Regulations 00:40:14 - Final Thoughts and Reflections 00:42:24 - Contact Information for Kevin 00:48:54 - Closing Remarks and Podcast Information