In this episode of Founders Future, with host Amar Elm, Suzanne Turner—founder and CEO of ICE Consulting, LLC—shares her journey from document management in clinical trials to becoming a leading expert in Trial Master File (TMF) compliance. With 12 years of experience, Suzanne reveals how her niche consultancy helps pharmaceutical sponsors and CROs maintain inspection-ready documentation through her "Inform, Connect, Engage" framework. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from corporate security to entrepreneurship, including navigating payment delays and convincing clients of her unique team-based consulting model that blends high-level strategy with hands-on TMF management.

Suzanne opens up about the realities of scaling a hyper-specialized consultancy in the clinical research world, where recruiters often act as gatekeepers. She highlights how she’s breaking through by positioning herself as a TMF thought leader—through LinkedIn, industry conferences, and her podcast Heart of the Trial. For aspiring founders, Suzanne’s advice is golden: "You’re worth more than you realize." Her story is a masterclass in niching down, leveraging expertise, and the power of saying "yes" to scary opportunities that lead to growth.