How to Manage a Complex Supply Chain project for an International Pharmaceutical Company?

Tomorrow by TeamWork (TW)* is dedicated to improving the performance of organizations. With our consultants from various operational background and areas of expertise, Tomorrow by TW has supported a multinational in the strategic acquisition of a company and the launch of a new product.

Context and challenges

Our client, a global leader in the pharmaceutical industry, pioneers R&D, as well as the manufacturing and distribution of innovative therapies across over 90 countries worldwide. The group expanded its portfolio through the acquisition of a U.S.-based biopharmaceutical company, introducing a groundbreaking new product. This product debuted successfully in the U.S. market before its global rollout.

The primary challenge involved integrating these newly acquired compounds into the existing processes. Tomorrow by TW leveraged their expertise to design and implement External Manufacturing and Supply Chain processes, collaborating with multiple CMOs (Contract Manufacturing Organizations).

Our approach

Business Process Modeling (BPM) proved pivotal in establishing a solid foundation for the project. Through collaborative workshops with key stakeholders, we facilitated a clear understanding and optimization of workflows by developing data-driven visual representations of existing processes. This approach enabled us to streamline operations and ensure alignment with business objectives.

This documentation set played a crucial role in designing the optimal solution for integrating the ERP (SAP S4/HANA) and the Advanced Planning System (APS), enabling seamless management of external manufacturing and delivery processes. It also facilitated strategic decision-making through Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP), setting the stage for the successful launch of the new product in the U.S.

The definition of the RACI matrix proved invaluable in guiding teams through the complexities that arose from this transformation. It provided clarity on roles and responsibilities, ensuring effective navigation of the changes brought by the transformational process.

Throughout the implementation phase, maintaining a daily follow-up of the action plan was instrumental in providing continuous support to users. This included conducting trainings and ensuring seamless access to systems, thereby enhancing user proficiency and system adoption.

During the hypercare phase, close monitoring of the initial deliveries was crucial to ensuring the success of the project and the team. This involved daily troubleshooting and follow-up to promptly address any issues that arose, thereby maintaining momentum and optimizing the implementation process.

Benefits

The go-live proceeded smoothly, ensuring a flawless end-to-end delivery of the product to the US market, leading to a successful launch. The strong foundation established during the project enabled the team to effectively integrate continuous improvement into their business activities. This project set the stage for a successful global launch of the new product.