Brenda Patterson

From Career to Calling

I began my recruiting career in 1987. Everything changed in 1994 when my six-year-old daughter Katelin was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis. Years later, my son Jake was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.

Recruiting became about finding the people who could help save my children's lives.

The day after Katelin's diagnosis, I found Dr. Steve Shak, the discoverer of Pulmozyme. I connected with Frank DeFord, whose daughter had died of CF, and Boomer Esiason, whose son Gunnar lives with CF. Their advice transformed my career trajectory: become an advocate, learn the science, raise funds for research, and bring my recruiting skills to the biotech industry where they're needed most.

In 1999, I founded JBK Search as a mission, not just a business.

Professional Excellence

25+ Years of Specialized Expertise

Since 1999, I've dedicated my career exclusively to Regulatory Affairs, Quality Assurance, and Pharmacovigilance recruiting for biopharma and medical device companies advancing breakthrough therapies.

Proven Track Record

My success isn't measured just in placements made, but in the impact those placements have on advancing treatments and improving patient outcomes.

From startups preparing for their first FDA submission to Fortune 500 companies scaling commercial operations, I've helped build the teams that bring life-saving therapies to patients.

What Drives Me

Every morning, I'm motivated by the knowledge that the talent we place today could develop tomorrow's breakthrough therapy.

These weren't just scientific achievements. They were the result of exceptional people doing extraordinary work. The regulatory professionals who navigated FDA pathways. The quality leaders who ensured every dose was safe. The teams who refused to give up.

That's what we do at JBK Search. We find those people. We connect them with companies working on the next breakthrough. I've developed my recruiting expertise to make a difference in the lives of patients like my children and millions of others waiting for better treatments and cures.

My Commitment to You

Personal Investment

When I take on a search, I'm not just finding an employee - I'm finding someone who could contribute to saving lives. That personal stake ensures I never settle for "good enough."

Direct Involvement

Every search receives my personal oversight from start to finish. You're working with the founder, not just the company.

Deep Understanding

Having navigated the life sciences industry for over two decades - as both a professional and a patient advocate - I understand the unique challenges and opportunities in this space.

Beyond the Office

When I'm not recruiting, I'm actively fundraising and advocating for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF). This work keeps me connected to the patient community and reminds me daily why finding the right talent in life sciences matters so much.

When I'm able to step away, you'll find me hiking Indiana trails, reading, or spending time with my two grandchildren.