RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.– Worldwide Clinical Trials, a global contract research organization (CRO), today announced the appointment of Alistair Macdonald as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. He succeeds Peter Benton, who is retiring after more than a decade of service as president and CEO. Benton will remain with the company as Senior Advisor to support a smooth transition for employees and customers.
Macdonald, a veteran of the clinical research industry, brings decades of leadership and operational experience. He most recently served as Operating Partner at GHO Capital, advising healthcare companies on growth and innovation. Previously, he was CEO of Syneos Health, where he led its transformation into a global CRO with revenues growing from about $1 billion to $5 billion. Macdonald has also held board positions with the Association of Clinical Research Organizations (ACRO), Medicines Discovery Catapult, Seqens, Eliquent, OncImmune, and Klick Health.
“Worldwide is at an exciting inflection point—investing boldly in technology and innovation to deliver transformative solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers and patients,” said Matt Jennings, Executive Chairman of Worldwide and Operating Partner of Kohlberg, the majority owner of the company. “We are expanding our capabilities and scaling globally with a clear focus on becoming the market-leading CRO in customer service, quality, and responsiveness. Alistair brings the right experience to lead this next chapter—a proven growth leader who knows how to scale organizations while preserving what makes them exceptional: our people, our culture, and our deep commitment to customers.”
“I’m honored to join Worldwide at such a pivotal moment in the growth trajectory of the business,” said Macdonald. “Peter has built an extraordinary foundation, and I look forward to working closely with our talented teams to further elevate Worldwide’s impact as a leading customer-focused and innovative CRO.”
Benton’s leadership over the past 11 years has been marked by transformative growth and a mission-driven culture. During his tenure, Worldwide expanded its global footprint, reinforced its reputation for scientific rigor and customer-focused innovation, and strengthened its therapeutic expertise to provide responsive partnerships and personalized solutions.
“It’s been the honor of a lifetime to lead Worldwide, and I’m deeply proud of the culture, team, and momentum we’ve built together,” Benton said. “As I step into retirement, I do so with full confidence in Alistair’s leadership. His deep respect for Worldwide’s culture of responsiveness, accessibility, and personalized service ensures that our core values remain intact as we innovate and grow.”
Jennings added: “We are grateful to Peter for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence while at the helm of Worldwide. His legacy will continue to shape the company’s future as we welcome Alistair as our next CEO.”
