Harmonizing supply chain processes and ERP systems to enable a global biopharma's digital transformation and integration of a newly acquired site.
Client Situation
The Cell & Gene Therapy division of a Fortune 100 biopharma company was hitting all the right notes in innovation but struggling to keep tempo in its operations. They were on a mission to harmonize enterprise-wide global and site supply chain processes with a new ERP system, as part of a broader digital transformation effort to enable the scope, scale, and complexity of their growth aspirations.
The recent acquisition of a Vector manufacturing site added yet another layer of complexity to this initiative: The new site’s operations and technology needed to be rationalized and integrated with the rest of the organization, without derailing the overall transformation timeline.
The multi-billion-dollar division needed a partner that could step in and bring synergy to their processes so they could focus on what they do best: harnessing biotech to develop and deliver life-changing treatments.
Our Approach
North Highland worked side-by-side with the client to build a more efficient, integrated operation by targeting three key areas of impact. Here’s how:
#1 Business Process Management (BPM) Infrastructure:
We built the new business process architecture—mapping, modeling, and interlinking the new hierarchy from value stream (L0) to work instruction (L4) detail. Concurrently, we deployed a central portal and new BPM technology to serve as the go-to central portal for the supply chain’s processes, applicable job-aids, work-instructions, and training materials. This "one-stop-shop" clearly mapped out linkages across the end-to-end supply chain.
#2 Vector Manufacturing Site Integration:
There needed to be a deep dive into the current state of the newly acquired site so that future-focused plans could be designed in alignment with the company’s overarching supply chain strategy. This exercise spanned across five functions: Planning, Purchasing, Manufacturing, Quality, and Warehouse/Inventory. By mapping workflows, analyzing gaps, and then redesigning workflows to align with ERP configurations, we ensured smoother integration. Thorough data cleanup, change management practices, testing, and go-live support are also playing a part in the successful transition of the new vector site.
#3 Enterprise ERP Migration:
Current state assessments were not limited to the newly acquired vector site. Our team also evaluated supply chain processes across the client’s network of cell therapy sites to prepare for the ERP migration. This includes:
- Capturing current state
- Defining clear future state business requirements
- Developing product diagrams and process flows aligned to the new ERP
- Designing comprehensive UAT scripts and acceptance criteria
Value Delivered
Our partnership is enabling a digital transformation that will deliver tangible benefits for years to come.
The global BPM portal we implemented is a game-changer. More than just a repository, it's a dynamic hub that will drive consistency and efficiency across the Cell & Gene Therapy division. Silos are coming down, replaced by a new clarity and alignment.
While the implementation is still ongoing, early results are impressive. We’re seeing reduced complexity, cost efficiencies, and unique capabilities being unlocked. But the impact goes beyond the bottom line. By harmonizing and optimizing the supply chain, we're playing a part in something much larger: Enabling the company to scale the delivery of breakthrough therapies to patients worldwide.
