FAQ - sopphc.org

Frequently Asked Questions

I don’t live in the U.S.— can I join SOPPhC?

SOPPhC supports independent consulting practices at every stage of their business journey.
While we plan to grow internationally, our initial focus is in the United States, where laws,
regulations, and business conditions are unique.

If you’re based outside the U.S., we’d love to collaborate. Email info@sopphc.org. to discuss
forming regional or local partner organizations aligned with SOPPhC’s mission.

Is it safe to share my information with SOPPhC? Will SOPPhC sell my data to third parties?

Yes—it’s safe. SOPPhC is a 501(c)(6) non-profit trade organization, which means it exists solely
for the benefit of its members and cannot profit from selling data.
We comply with U.S. privacy laws and apply best practices aligned with international standards.
Your data is used only to connect you with professional opportunities, events, and
benefits—never without your consent, and never sold.
You always have control over what’s shared, and you can change your privacy settings or opt out
at any time.

How does SOPPhC use my data?

We collect only the professional information needed to:
● Create your member profile and directory listing (if you choose to be listed).
● Match you with sponsors, hiring agents, or collaborators who request specific expertise.
● Communicate about events, educational programs, or community opportunities.
We retain this information only as long as your membership is active and remove or
anonymize it upon request.

Can I control what information is visible or shared?

Absolutely. During onboarding, you’ll choose:
● Whether you appear in the public member directory.
● Whether you allow referrals to sponsors or hiring partners.
● Whether you’d like to receive newsletters or marketing emails.

These settings can be changed anytime in your profile or by emailing info@sopphc.org.

What happens when SOPPhC conducts research or surveys?

When SOPPhC conducts surveys or industry research (e.g., annual compensation reports),
participation is always optional.
We may aggregate anonymous data to produce insights that benefit the consulting community,
but you are never the product. If your expertise or participation has commercial value, we aim
to compensate or credit you fairly.

I’m employed by a consulting agency—can I join?

Yes. Many of our members consult through agencies or hybrid models. SOPPhC can help you
strengthen your network, prepare for independent work, and connect with mentors who’ve
walked the same path.

I was just laid off—can I afford the membership dues of $299?

If you’re in transition, check if your employer will cover the dues as part of your severance or
professional development benefits.
If not, we encourage you to still reach out—community matters most in times of change, and
membership may qualify as a business expense for your new consulting entity.

I own a boutique consulting firm—why should I join?

If you manage a team of 2–50 consultants, SOPPhC helps you grow sustainably, offload training
and business-development activities, and build a pipeline of vetted consultants ready for project
work.
You’ll also have a voice in shaping policies and programs that affect the broader consulting
community

I already have a strong practice—what can SOPPhC do for me?

If your business is thriving, SOPPhC offers a next level of professional growth—from
partnerships and talent pipelines to succession planning and exit strategy.
It’s also a forum to influence industry standards and mentor the next generation of consultants.

I’m preparing for retirement—why should I stay involved?

Your knowledge and perspective are invaluable. SOPPhC provides pathways to mentor
emerging consultants, contribute to policy discussions, and explore board or advisory roles
with SOPPhC and partner organizations.
You decide how active you want to be—on your own terms.

What does SOPPhC actually do?

We’re building the first professional trade organization dedicated to independent
pharmaceutical and biotech consultants.
SOPPhC advocates for fair contracting, ethical practices, access to training, and recognition of
consultants as a vital part of the life-sciences ecosystem.
Our programs will evolve to include member networking, research initiatives, continuing
education, and advocacy for fair treatment of independent professionals.

How does SOPPhC protect my privacy and data security?

● We store data on secure U.S.-based servers with encryption and limited access.
● We don’t share or transfer data to third parties without a contractual data-sharing
agreement and member consent.
● We review all tools and vendors for security and compliance.
● If a data incident occurs, members will be notified promptly and transparently.
For details, see our full Privacy Notice below.

Purpose
SOPPhC collects and processes limited professional data to deliver membership services,
community networking, and research initiatives.

Data We Collect

Name, contact details, professional role, and area of expertise
Employment type (independent, agency, firm owner, etc.)
Preferences for directory listing, referrals, and communication
Optional survey and research participation data

How We Use It

Operate and manage membership accounts
Connect members with sponsors or hiring agents (with consent)
Send relevant communications and event information
Conduct anonymized research and industry reports

Your Rights
Members may at any time:

Access their information
Correct or delete their information
Withdraw consent for marketing or referrals
Request removal from the member directory
Ask for clarification on data use via info@sopphc.org

Data Storage and Retention
All data is stored securely on U.S.-based servers.
We retain active member data for the duration of membership and remove it within two years
of non-renewal unless legal or accounting obligations require longer retention.

Contact
Questions about privacy or data handling may be directed to 📧 info@sopphc.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

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