With the globalization of clinical drug and device trials, cultural awareness and collaboration, as well as the ability to effectively manage organizational change, have become key components to any successful product development program. Thus, in order to optimize communication and productivity, global team leaders and members should possess certain qualities, skills, and "cultural intelligence," as well as an awareness of change management principles. This symposium will highlight specific cultural and change management issues by discussing conceptual principles, best practices and relevant case studies.