The NextStage Story
We are driven to make clinical research more patient-centric, efficient, and accessible — for everyone involved.
NextStage Clinical Research was founded to create a better way to deliver clinical trials, rooted in collaboration, compassion, and clarity. We work alongside physician groups, hospitals, and communities to make clinical research more accessible.
With no board of directors to slow us down, we move with purpose, helping sponsors move faster, physicians offer more options, and patients access innovation.
Join The Team
Explore our current openings and take the first step toward a rewarding career. Your future starts here.
Advancing Research Through Relationships, Not Red Tape
We empower leading physician groups and their patients with clinical solutions that accelerate innovation, improve health, and serve the future of medicine.
Our mission is built around people — the providers who lead it, the patients who trust it, and the teams who make it possible.
A Team of Dedicated Experts
Our leadership team brings over 125 years of combined experience across healthcare, life sciences, and clinical operations. We are united by a shared vision: To build a smarter clinical research network that puts patients first, eliminates barriers, and advances science through trust and precision.
Our culture is rooted in longevity, shared purpose, and a commitment
to empowering the people who power our mission.
Ned Schwing
Co-Founder & Executive Chairman
Walter E. “Ned” Schwing, Jr. is a healthcare entrepreneur with decades of experience leading physician-focused businesses. He co-founded National Cardiovascular Partners, which partnered with Bain Capital and was acquired by Fresenius Medical Care, and has led ventures including NextStage Medical and Partners Surgical Corporation. Recognized as Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and a graduate of Harvard’s Owner/President Management Program, Ned continues to drive innovation and growth.
Robert Schwing
Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Robert Schwing has over 30 years of experience building healthcare platforms that improve patient outcomes. He has co-founded multiple successful ventures with his brother, including MedSite Partners, NextStage Medical, Partners Surgical, and National Cardiovascular Partners, which partnered with Bain Capital and was later acquired by Fresenius Medical Care. Robert has a track record in strategy, operations, and partnership development, driving growth across cardiovascular, orthopedic, and spine care markets.
Eric Fournet
Chief Financial Officer
Eric Fournet, CFO, brings over 25 years of experience in healthcare finance and strategy. He has served as CFO for Catalyst Health Group, Partners Surgical, and National Cardiovascular Partners, and previously held leadership roles at US Oncology. A CPA with an MBA and an B.B.A. in Accounting, Eric specializes in guiding physician-partnered businesses toward sustainable excellence.
Zach Bader
Chief Business Development Officer
Zach Bader, Chief Business Development Officer, brings over 15 years of experience in the clinical research industry. He previously served as VP of Business Development at a startup CRO, helping scale the organization. Known for his strategic vision and strong client relations, he specializes in identifying opportunities that enhance market presence and operational efficiency.
Melissa Holbrook
Chief Operations Officer
Melissa Holbrook, MSN, NP, is a clinical research professional with over 20 years of experience. She has served as Head of Operations, where she elevated patient care and research delivery. With a background in clinical practice and leadership, she bridges research strategy with operational execution. Melissa holds an MS in Nursing from Duke University and is based in NC.
“Patients deserve to have access to innovation! Our NCR worldwide team is committed to serving patients and physicians alike, providing solutions that deliver results through trust, transparency and dedication to those who need it most.”