Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Making it in Manufacturing
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scaling a Legacy CDMO: Inside Pyramid Pharma’s Fill-Finish Expansion | 23 Dec 2025 | 00:07:59 | |
The CDMO everyone’s suddenly talking about, and the CEO taking it to the next level. This week, in another episode of the Making It in Manufacturing Spotlight Series, hosted by Thomas McMann, we sit down with Dirk T. Lange, CEO at Pyramid Pharma Services. With 30 years of experience across drug-substance and drug-product CDMOs, global operations, outsourcing leadership, and life-science services, spanning Rentschler, KBI Biopharma, Novartis, Sandoz, and more, Dirk brings a rare dual-lens perspective from both the provider and sponsor side. In this episode, Dirk covers: - A full overview of Pyramid Pharma Services, a 37-year-old CDMO with an exceptionally broad drug-product offering from clinical to commercial supply. - Key data behind Pyramid’s under-the-radar growth, including 15 successful FDA inspections, a strong legacy of quality, and decades of organic expansion driven by long-term customer partnerships. - Why they’re doubling their fill–finish capabilities, including the strategic drivers, client demand, and the transition from clinical-scale to high-speed commercial lines. - The operational realities of scaling, from maintaining culture to onboarding new teams, strengthening processes, and preserving execution excellence during rapid growth. - How Pyramid positions itself as an enabler in the supply chain, supporting customers from early development through long-term commercial supply. Be sure to check out this episode, a deep dive into what it really takes to scale a legacy CDMO while protecting quality, culture, and customer trust. To listen to (or watch) the full episode, search "Making it in Manufacturing Pyramid Pharma" on your preferred streaming platform, or click on the first link in the comments below. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Dirk T. Lange CEO at Pyramid Pharma Services LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/langedirk/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:11 Pyramid Overview 01:41 Key Data 03:46 Doubling Fill Finish Capabilities 05:38 Growth Challenges Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| $45M Expansion: What’s Next for Argonaut’s Aseptic Manufacturing Capabilities | 16 Dec 2025 | 00:14:16 | |
In this episode of the Making It in Manufacturing Spotlight Series, we sit down with Raj Puri, Chief Commercial Officer at Argonaut Manufacturing Services. With over 12 months in the CCO role and extensive experience across the CDMO space, Raj brings insight from leading business development, project management, and commercial strategy across both life science/diagnostics and aseptic drug-product services. In this episode, Raj covers: - Why Argonaut chooses to support “N of 1” programmes, and the cultural impact of delivering life-saving therapies for single-patient treatments. - The operational challenges of ultra-high-value API filling, and how Argonaut minimises line losses for rare-disease therapies. - The company’s evolution, from diagnostics to becoming a major player in small- to mid-scale aseptic drug-product manufacturing. - How Argonaut’s new $45M facility and commercial-scale filling line will transform output, enable prefilled syringes/cartridges, and support global demand. - The realities of scaling a CDMO, including hiring, maintaining culture, preparing for FDA pre-approval inspection, and setting long-term strategy for future capabilities. Be sure to check out this episode to hear Raj’s candid take on growth, culture, and the future of drug-product manufacturing. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Raj Puri CCO at Argonaut Manufacturing Services LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raj-puri-3137665/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division at ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:10 Stepping Into The Role & Early Lessons 04:03 Scaling Smart: Challenges and Capabilities 09:07 Culture, Talent & The Future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Hilary Mills-Baker: Championing Quality and Innovation in Life Sciences Automation | 12 Jun 2025 | 00:35:24 | |
In this episode, we feature Hilary Mills-Baker, a distinguished expert in process automation and computer systems validation within the life sciences sector:
In this episode, we discuss a range of topics including DeltaV, automation, Gender Diversity within Manufacturing and Engineering, GAMP, the ISPE conference, as well as AI and CyberSecurity and a lot more. This conversation applies broadly to all types of connections in the Life Sciences Industry, and aims to educate and inspire those who want to excel in the manufacturing and engineering space. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: Leading Beyond The Lab Instagram: Instagram (@arto.talent) TikTok: artotalent on TikTok Apple Podcasts: Leading Beyond The Lab Website: Home Youtube: ARTO Recruitment Hilary Mills-Baker European Manager of Quality and Validation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilarymillsbaker/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:00 Career Beginnings 12:03 DeltaV & Automation 16:40 AI & Cyber Security 22:31 Gender Diversity in M&E 28:42 GAMP and ISPE #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #ManufacturingAndEngineering #ISPE #AI Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The CDMO Changing Oral Drug Delivery – Instapill CEO Ankit Gupta | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:14:19 | |
The CDMO Changing the Game in Drug Delivery This week, in another episode of the Making it in Manufacturing Spotlight Series, we sit down with Ankit Gupta, CEO of Instapill, a company redefining oral drug delivery through freeze-dried, fast-dissolving tablets. With over 15 years of experience spanning investment banking, M&A, and leadership roles in pharmaceutical manufacturing, Ankit brings a sharp perspective on scaling, innovation, and sustainable differentiation. In this episode, Ankit covers: - Instapill’s unique FDA-approved non-gelatin ODT technology and why it’s transforming patient outcomes in paediatrics and geriatrics. - Scaling up manufacturing capacity in India and future expansion plans into the US, and how automation will maintain quality at scale. - How digital transformation and AI are shaping pharmaceutical manufacturing, from paperless R&D to data-driven precision in production. - What makes a CDMO attractive to investors, and how sustainable differentiation trumps trend-driven momentum. - Lessons from M&A and investment banking, and how they inform his approach as a CEO leading growth in a competitive CDMO landscape. Be sure to check out this episode to hear how Instapill is not only innovating formulation, but reimagining the future of pharma manufacturing. To listen to (or watch) the full episode, search "Making it in Manufacturing Instapill" on your preferred streaming platform. Or, click on the first link in the comments below. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Ankit Gupta CEO at Instapill LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reachankit/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:11 Stand Out FDA Approval & Speed to Market 08:00 Global Growth and Operations 10:55 Insights & Leadership Takeaways Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How ten23 Became One of Europe’s Fastest-Growing Drug-Product CDMOs | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:38:41 | |
What does it really take to build one of Europe’s fastest-growing drug-product CDMOs, and do it with scientific precision, culture-first leadership, and a B-Corp mindset? This week, in another episode of the Making It in Manufacturing Spotlight Series, we sit down with Hanns-Christian Mahler, CEO & Founder of ten23. With over 20 years of experience spanning senior roles at Merck, Roche, biopharma development, drug-product strategy, and CDMO leadership, Hanns-Christian brings a rare blend of scientific rigour, sustainability vision, and people-centric leadership. In this episode, Hanns-Christian covers: - The origin story of ten23 and why he left big pharma to challenge the CDMO status quo with ten23 - Why ten23 leads with partnership - not execution - and how “asking better questions” is their competitive edge ten23 - ten23’s rapid growth journey: new filling lines, site expansion, headcount growth, and strategic partnerships, like with BD - The culture behind the company: transparency, autonomy, values-led leadership, and building a truly learning organisation at ten23 - The future of CDMOs: AI adoption with intention, sustainability as a scientific discipline, and what’s next for ten23’s global footprint - Hanns-Christian also speaks about his partnerships with sustainability-focused companies such as Lio, led by CEO Vladimir Keil, highlighting how these collaborations help drive more responsible and efficient operations. If you want a masterclass in modern CDMO leadership, rooted in science, innovation, and purpose, this is the episode to watch. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Hanns-Christian Mahler CEO at ten23 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hanns-christian-mahler/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division at ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:00 Career Beginnings & ten23 08:18 Challenges with Scaling 14:29 Culture & Leadership Style 20:00 Scientific Rigour vs Sustainability 26:07 Challenges with Geopolitical Issues 29:13 The Future & AI Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How Do You Successfully Scale and Integrate CDMO Sites After Acquisition? J.D. Mowery | 04 Dec 2025 | 00:18:34 | |
If you're leading in pharma, biotech, or manufacturing, this is essential listening. This week, we kick off Season 2 of Making It In Manufacturing with a heavyweight guest: J.D. Mowery, Division President, CDMO at Bora Pharmaceuticals. With more than 25 years of experience across the biopharmaceutical and CDMO sectors, J.D. brings a proven track record of building high-performing teams, scaling operations, and driving innovation at every stage of the drug development lifecycle. He has held impactful leadership roles at industry leaders such as Genentech, Lonza, and JSR Life Sciences, and most recently served as CEO of KBI Biopharma. His expertise spans operations, manufacturing, technology transfer, facility construction, and business development, with a global perspective shaped by work across North America, Europe, and Asia. J.D. is known for his hands-on leadership style, commitment to operational excellence, and passion for building strong, collaborative cultures. In this episode, J.D. unpacks: - Smart integration and scaling: Integration and scaling of sites post-acquisition - Why quality is still the sharpest competitive edge - What it means to partner with purpose in today’s pharma landscape - Where CDMOs are headed next - and how AI is shaping that direction If you're in a leadership role within pharma or biotech, this is the episode you’ll want your entire team to hear. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences J.D. Mowery Division President - CDMO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdmowery/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division at ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:00 Filling Sites & Scaling Smartly 06:38 Quality as a Differentiator 13:30 Partnering with Purpose 17:19 The Future of CDMOs and AI Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How a Crack in Equipment Taught Abbas Hussain the Value of Planning Buffers | 24 Jul 2025 | 00:42:00 | |
In this episode, we’re joined by Abbas Hussain, an internationally recognised engineering leader and current Projects & Engineering Manager at EUROAPI.
In this episode, we cover a range of topics including Culture, CAPEX, Project Planning & Delays, Sustainability, AI, Quickfire Questions and a lot more. This conversation applies broadly to all types of connections in the Life Sciences Industry, and aims to educate and inspire those who want to excel in the manufacturing and engineering space. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: Leading Beyond The Lab Instagram: Instagram (@arto.talent) TikTok: artotalent on TikTok Apple Podcasts: Leading Beyond The Lab Website: Home Youtube: ARTO Recruitment\ Abbas Hussain Projects & Engineering Manager at EUROAPI. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbas-sayyed-028a7812/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division at ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:00 Career Beginnings 08:31 Culture Differences 16:58 CAPEX, Project Planning & Delays 30:42 Sustainability 36:54 AI & Rounding Up #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #ManufacturingAndEngineering #ISPE #AI #OPEX #CDMOS #DataIntegrity #Auditing #CSV #CAPEX #Sustainability Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How Michael Vrijs Defends His Site Against Auditors - Without Saying Too Much | 10 Jul 2025 | 00:28:15 | |
In this episode, we feature Michael Vrijs, a well-recognised expert in cleaning validation and biopharma manufacturing, known for turning complex compliance into practical strategy:
In this episode, we cover a range of topics including Michael’s Career Beginnings, Cleaning and Validation, Common Mistakes Businesses make, Auditor Handling, Advice for young Engineers, and a lot more. This conversation applies broadly to all types of connections in the Life Sciences Industry, and aims to educate and inspire those who want to excel in the manufacturing and engineering space. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: Leading Beyond The Lab Instagram: Instagram (@arto.talent) TikTok: artotalent on TikTok Apple Podcasts: Leading Beyond The Lab Website: Home Youtube: ARTO Recruitment Michael Vrijs Manager Manufacturing Technology LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-vrijs-84b97940/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division at ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:00 Career Beginnings 06:09 Cleaning / Validation 13:53 Common Mistakes / Auditor Handling 22:11 Advice for Engineers #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #ManufacturingAndEngineering #ISPE #AI #OPEX #CDMOS #DataIntegrity #Auditing #CSV, CAPEX, Sustainability #Cleaning #Validation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Carsten Jasper: Revolutionising Pharma Compliance with AI, Cleanrooms & Bold Thinking | 03 Jul 2025 | 00:35:11 | |
In this episode, we are joined by Carsten Jasper, a globally recognised leader specialising in pharmaceutical quality, regulatory compliance, and digital transformation within life sciences.
In this episode, we discuss a range of topics including CSV Validation, Risk Management, Data Integrity, AI, Auditing, Advice for Candidates and more. This conversation applies broadly to all types of connections in the Life Sciences Industry, and aims to educate and inspire those who want to excel in the manufacturing and engineering space. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: Leading Beyond The Lab Instagram: Instagram (@arto.talent) TikTok: artotalent on TikTok Apple Podcasts: Leading Beyond The Lab Website: Home Youtube: ARTO Recruitment Carsten Jasper Senior Director, QRM and CQV (R&D) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carsten-jasper-59189982/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division at ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:00 Career Beginnings 10:09 CSV Validation & Risk Management 15:13 Data Integrity & AI 23:53 Auditing 31:54 Rounding Up #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #ManufacturingAndEngineering #ISPE #AI #OPEX #CDMOS #DataIntegrity #Auditing #CSV Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Simon Adams: Building Organisations That Can Withstand Change | 26 Jun 2025 | 00:55:10 | |
In this episode of Making It In Manufacturing, we speak with Simon Adams, a seasoned advisor and founder of Adams Bio Consulting Ltd, about the evolving demands of leadership in the Life Sciences sector.
In this episode, we discuss a range of topics including aseptic compounding, CDMOs - when, where and why use them, OPEX , leadership, cross functional management and more. This conversation applies broadly to all types of connections in the Life Sciences Industry, and aims to educate and inspire those who want to excel in the manufacturing and engineering space. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: Leading Beyond The Lab Instagram: Instagram (@arto.talent) TikTok: artotalent on TikTok Apple Podcasts: Leading Beyond The Lab Website: Home Youtube: ARTO Recruitment Simon Adams Founder and Principal at Adams Bio Consulting Ltd LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-adams-86005710/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division at ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:00 Career Beginnings 07:18 Aseptic Compounding 18:50 CDMOs 28:19 OPEX 45:44 Leadership & Management #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #ManufacturingAndEngineering #ISPE #AI #OPEX #CDMOS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Hazem Eleskandarani: Engineering Excellence in Global Pharmaceutical Quality | 19 Jun 2025 | 00:45:49 | |
In this episode, we feature Hazem Eleskandarani, P.E., PMP, a distinguished leader in pharmaceutical engineering and quality assurance:
In this episode, we discuss a range of topics including risk management, AI, project acceleration and its drawbacks, traits that make a great CQV engineer, common mistakes, cross functional management, as well as tips when it comes to inspectors visiting a new site. This conversation applies broadly to all types of connections in the Life Sciences Industry, and aims to educate and inspire those who want to excel in the manufacturing and engineering space. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: Leading Beyond The Lab Instagram: Instagram (@arto.talent) TikTok: artotalent on TikTok Apple Podcasts: Leading Beyond The Lab Website: Home Youtube: ARTO Recruitment Hazem Eleskandarani Senior Director, Global Quality Engineering LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hazem-eleskandarani-p-e-pmp-47705842/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:00 Career Beginnings 12:40 Project Acceleration & Drawbacks 20:36 Risk Management & Project Delays 31:45 AI & Leadership 38:41 Cross Functional Managing #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #ManufacturingAndEngineering #ISPE #AI Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Building Trust in Pharma and Biotech Manufacturing Partnerships | Sharp Services | 29 Jan 2026 | 00:10:27 | |
What does it really take to build trust in pharmaceutical and biotech partnerships when timelines are tight, expectations are high, and the market never stands still? This week on Making It In Manufacturing, Tom McMann sat down with Alexander Schäfer, Business Development Manager, to unpack what strong execution, honest communication, and long-term thinking look like inside global contract packaging services. In this episode, Alexander shares insights from his work across European operations in pharmaceutical and biotech packaging, supporting everyone from early-stage virtual biotechs to established blue-chip pharma organisations. Speaking from the floor of CPHI, one of the industry’s most important global events, he breaks down how expectations shift across company sizes and why trust is earned through delivery, not promises. Throughout the conversation, Alexander references the realities of operating at scale within global packaging services, the importance of listening to market demand, and how investment decisions are shaped by customer needs and long-term industry trends. In this episode, Alexander Schäfer covers: • How servicing small biotechs versus large pharma companies requires different approaches to expectations and support (01:28) • Why trust in business development is built through execution, consistency, and reputation over time (03:12) • The importance of open communication and solution-led thinking when projects face challenges (04:24) • What skills matter most in business development, including listening, asking the right questions, and understanding customer pain points (06:29) • How major investments into packaging capacity, injectables, and device assembly are shaping the future of the industry (07:21) This conversation was recorded during CPHI, where industry leaders come together to discuss innovation, investment, and the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing. It offers a grounded look at how business development works behind the scenes in a highly regulated, fast-moving environment. If you are working in pharma, biotech, manufacturing, or commercial leadership, this episode offers practical insight into how long-term partnerships are built and sustained. Check out the full episode now. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Alexander Schäfer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-sch%C3%A4fer-4515a433/ Tom McMann LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and context from CPHI 00:54 Overview of European operations and contract packaging services 01:28 Servicing biotech versus pharma clients 03:12 Building trust through execution and reputation 04:24 Managing challenges with open communication and solutions 06:29 Essential skills for business development professionals 07:21 Investment in injectables, devices, and future capacity 10:25 Closing reflections #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #PharmaManufacturing #Biotech #BusinessDevelopment #CPHI #ContractPackaging Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What Makes a CDMO Investable? Ankit Gupta on Building Instapill for Long-Term Growth | 16 Jan 2026 | 00:14:19 | |
The CDMO Changing the Game in Drug Delivery This week, in another episode of the Making it in Manufacturing Spotlight Series, we sit down with Ankit Gupta, CEO of Instapill, a company redefining oral drug delivery through freeze-dried, fast-dissolving tablets. With over 15 years of experience spanning investment banking, M&A, and leadership roles in pharmaceutical manufacturing, Ankit brings a sharp perspective on scaling, innovation, and sustainable differentiation. In this episode, Ankit covers:
Be sure to check out this episode to hear how Instapill is not only innovating formulation, but reimagining the future of pharma manufacturing. To listen to (or watch) the full episode, search "Making it in Manufacturing Instapill" on your preferred streaming platform. Or, click on the first link in the comments below. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZO... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent... TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Website: https://arto-talent.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Ankit Gupta CEO at Instapill LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reachankit/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:11 Stand Out FDA Approval & Speed to Market 08:00 Global Growth and Operations 10:55 Insights & Leadership Takeaways Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Redefining Biomanufacturing: Himanshu Gadgil on Enzene’s Global CDMO Expansion | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:22:15 | |
Continuous manufacturing is reshaping biologics - and today’s guest is one of the leaders driving that shift. This week, in another episode of the Making It in Manufacturing Spotlight Series, we sit down with Himanshu Gadgil, PhD, CEO of Enzene. With over a decade of experience spanning scientific innovation, biologics development & manufacturing, global expansion and CDMO leadership, Himanshu shares the story behind Enzene’s rise from a small R&D biotech in India to a rapidly scaling global CIDMO with newly established US manufacturing. In this episode, Himanshu covers: - How Enzene built and evolved its first-in-class, fully-connected continuous manufacturing platform, EnzeneX - including initial failures shaped breakthrough innovation. - Why fully-connected continuous manufacturing™ is a cost and efficiency game-changer for biologics. - The regulatory and operational challenges of scaling this technology - and how Enzene approached India-to-US expansion. - Leadership lessons in his progression from scientist to CEO, including culture, resilience, and recognising that success depends on the combination of transformative innovation with a unique values/mission-driven approach to the way business gets done. - The future of biomanufacturing - from localisation and personalised production to fully automated, analytics-driven systems. Be sure to check out this episode to hear how Enzene is redefining what a modern CDMO can be. To listen to (or watch) the full episode, search "Making it in Manufacturing Enzene" on your preferred streaming platform, or click on the first link in the comments below. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Himanshu Gadgil CEO of Enzene LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/himanshu-gadgil-3326307/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:10 Enzene's Vision 04:10 Building & Scaling a Global Platform 07:51 Enzene's Competitive Edge 14:56 The Future of CDMO's 21:01 Vision for Enzene's Future Growth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How Xellia Is Reshaping Europe’s Antibiotics Market | CEO Michael Kocher | 26 Feb 2026 | 00:11:34 | |
What does it take to turn around a global antibiotic manufacturer and redefine its future in one of the toughest market environments in Europe? This week, in another episode of the Making It in Manufacturing Spotlight Series, hosted by @Thomas McMann we sit down with @Michael Kocher, CEO of @Xellia, who brings over two decades of leadership experience across global pharma and large-scale operations. With a career spanning senior roles in big-pharma and now leading a globally influential API manufacturer, Michael shares a remarkably honest look at the realities, decisions, and opportunities shaping Xellia today.
In this episode, Michael covers: - Surprises from his first two years as CEO, including the talent, mindset, and culture he found inside Xellia. - His early strategic focuses, stabilising finances, divesting business operations, and rebuilding a sustainable foundation. - Xellia’s key differentiators, its portfolio of anti-infectives, their role in fighting severe infections and AMR. - The decision to close its Copenhagen manufacturing site over 8-10 years, why the long-term shift was necessary and how it impacts future manufacturing. - European policy and market pressures, reimbursement challenges, OPEX subsidies, and why reshoring isn’t realistic. - Future priorities, financial strengthening, product transfers, market-share growth, and new product launches. - Biggest opportunities ahead, expanding the fermentation-based API portfolio and doubling down on critical medicines. Full Podcast
Be sure to check out this episode to hear Michael’s candid perspective on leadership, manufacturing, European policy, and what it truly takes to win in today’s API landscape. Follow ARTO: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Michael Kocher CEO at Xellia Pharmaceuticals LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kocher-191863a/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Untold Reality of Scaling Global Pharma Manufacturing - Xellia Pharmaceuticals | 18 Feb 2026 | 01:01:41 | |
97% of our viewers don't realise they aren't subscribed, please double check, thank you! What does it really take to scale pharmaceutical manufacturing globally, without losing sight of patients? In this standout episode of Making It in Manufacturing, we sit down with Preben Haaning, Board Member at Xellia Pharmaceuticals, and a global pharmaceutical executive with 25+ years of experience spanning sales, finance, site leadership, and board-level strategy. Preben shares lessons from an extraordinary career: including his pivotal years at Novo Nordisk, where he helped scale global manufacturing networks and supported the early foundations of today’s GLP-1 supply chain. In this episode, Preben covers:
If you’re working in pharmaceutical manufacturing, engineering, operations, or leadership, this is an episode packed with hard-won insight from the front lines. 👉 Be sure to check out the full episode and subscribe for more conversations with the leaders shaping life-sciences manufacturing. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: / artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZO... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent... TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Website: https://arto-talent.com Youtube: / @life_sciences Preben Haaning Board Member at Xellia Pharmaceuticals LinkedIn: / preben-haaning-18a6193 Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division LinkedIn: / thomas-mcmann-05540a10b Timestamps: 02:03 Xellia Pharmaceuticals 11:07 From the Military to Life Sciences 19:11 Project Success and Failure 28:51 Global Pharmaceutical Executive 46:41 Novo Nordisk Expansion of US Supply Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Inside Mabion’s Growth Strategy | CEO Gregor Kawaletz on Biosimilars & Biologics | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:14:24 | |
What does it take to step into a publicly listed CDMO and immediately reposition it for growth in a shifting global market? At Mabion, it starts with people, scientific excellence and a clear commercial vision. This week on Making It In Manufacturing, Thomas McMann sat down with Gregor Kawaletz, CEO of Mabion, bringing over 20 years of experience in the CDMO space spanning leadership roles across NextPharma, Catalent and Recipharm. Now in the first month as CEO, Gregor shares why this move was about broader impact and how the organisation will be steered into its next phase. In this episode, Gregor covers: • The first month as CEO at @Mabion and why “every company is about people” • The transition from Chief Commercial Officer roles into a CEO position with responsibility for the full organisation • Growth priorities, pipeline confidence and an upcoming adjusted business model • The €500,000 innovation initiative and awarding @WPD for novel antibody drug conjugate programmes in oncology • Regulatory shifts in the biosimilar space and how reduced requirements are expanding patient access The conversation also explores operating in a more multipolar global environment and why CDMOs must move beyond traditional fee-for-service models toward deeper collaboration and network thinking. For professionals in biologics, biosimilars or CDMO partnerships, this episode offers strategic insight shaped by experience across NextPharma, Catalent, Recipharm and now at Mabion. Check out this episode to hear how scientific depth, commercial leadership and organisational alignment can reposition a CDMO for long-term success. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Gregor Kawaletz - CEO at Mabion LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregor-kawaletz-276a4830/ Thomas McMann - Director At ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:00 First month as CEO at Mabion 02:19 Two decades in the CDMO space including NextPharma, Catalent and Recipharm 02:42 Moving from CCO to CEO 05:10 Growth strategy and business model evolution 06:57 €500k innovation award and WPD 09:41 Biosimilars regulation and market access 11:04 Navigating a multipolar global supply landscape 12:47 Expanding Mabion’s future offering #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #CDMO #Biologics #Biosimilars #LifeSciences #ManufacturingLeadership Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| From Lab Scientist to Pharma Leader: 40 Years of Scaling and Strategy Insight - Alison Clayton | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:16:06 | |
From hands-on pharmacology research to leading strategic projects in advanced manufacturing, this episode explores what it really takes to evolve, adapt, and lead across decades of change in life sciences. This week on Making It In Manufacturing, Harry Sloan sat down with Alison Clayton, Strategic Projects Director at Symbiosis, with over 40 years of experience spanning pharmacology research, pre-clinical and clinical development, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. In this episode, Alison Clayton covers: (00:00) Transitioning from academia into industry and navigating major company acquisitions early in a career (01:40) Moving beyond the lab into strategic, customer-facing roles and discovering a passion for leadership (03:35) Adapting to constant organisational change while maintaining a patient-first mindset (07:26) The risks of scaling too quickly in CDMOs and the importance of realistic capacity and strong partnerships (10:02) Maintaining quality and regulatory standards while growing in a highly competitive pharmaceutical landscape This conversation offers a grounded perspective on long-term career development, leadership in complex environments, and the evolving demands of pharmaceutical manufacturing. If you are building a career in life sciences or scaling within a CDMO environment, this episode provides practical insights worth applying. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Alison Clayton LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-clayton-78816711/ Harry Sloan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-sloan-605620154/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the episode 00:14 Alison Clayton introduction and career reflection 00:53 Transition from academia to industry 01:15 Experience at Syntex Pharmaceuticals, Roche, and Quintiles 01:40 Moving into strategic and customer-facing roles 02:24 Leadership style shaped by scientific background 02:50 End-to-end experience across drug development 03:13 Navigating challenges and career-defining moments 03:35 Adapting through multiple company transitions 04:24 Balancing commercial goals with patient outcomes 04:56 Experiences in a male-dominated industry 05:51 Advice for women in life sciences leadership 06:09 Career development without a fixed plan 07:00 Balancing career and family life 07:26 Scaling challenges in CDMOs 08:30 Risks of overpromising and underdelivering 09:28 Importance of supply chain and transparency 10:02 Maintaining quality and regulatory compliance 10:27 Overview of Symbiosis 10:57 Market demand for sterile manufacturing 11:20 Scottish identity and company culture 11:39 Differentiation in the CDMO market 12:31 Importance of flexibility and partnerships 13:21 Building long-term client relationships 13:41 Future outlook for Symbiosis 14:05 Evolution of biologics and impact on patients 14:32 Career reflection and delivering medicines to patients 15:17 What excites Alison about the future #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #PharmaceuticalManufacturing #LifeSciences #CDMO #Biologics #DrugDevelopment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| This CDMO Has an Advantage No One Else Can Replicate - Quotient Sciences | 22 Apr 2026 | 00:30:02 | |
95% of our viewers aren’t subscribed. If you’re watching and not yet subscribed, please subscribe to the channel so you don’t miss future episodes. The CDMO model is evolving fast, but what actually separates the leaders from the rest in today’s market? This week on Making It In Manufacturing, Harry Sloan sat down with Thierry Van Nieuwenhove, CEO of Quotient Sciences, with 25+ years of experience spanning business development, engineering, global manufacturing leadership, and executive roles. In this episode, Thierry covers: • The evolution of the CDMO landscape over 25 years, from API-focused events to a global, multi-disciplinary pharma ecosystem • How Quotient Sciences built a unique translational pharmaceutics platform to combine clinical studies with drug manufacturing, accelerating development timelines by up to 12 months • A career journey from chemical engineering into global business development and leadership, including building manufacturing capabilities in India and working across Europe and the US • Why speed, efficiency, and proof of concept are critical in today’s funding-constrained biotech environment • The growing impact of AI, global innovation shifts including China, and how CDMOs must adapt to remain competitive and support emerging biotech pipelines If you are looking to understand where the CDMO space is heading, and what it takes to lead in a rapidly evolving pharmaceutical market, this episode offers a clear and practical perspective. Be sure to watch the full conversation. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Thierry Van Nieuwenhove CEO at Quotient Sciences LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thierryvan/ Harry Sloan BD CDMO Lead LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-sloan-605620154/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Making It In Manufacturing at DCAT 00:20 Meet Thierry Van Nieuwenhove, CEO of Quotient Sciences 01:40 Overview of Quotient Sciences and translational pharmaceutics 03:10 Competitive advantage in the CDMO market 04:23 Career journey from engineering to CEO 07:00 Leadership development across global roles 08:18 Operating across international markets and cultures 09:17 Translating early-stage assets into clinical success 12:00 Industry challenges including funding constraints 14:25 AI, partnerships, and innovation in formulation 16:01 Data science and accelerating development timelines 17:32 Global trends including China’s role in innovation 19:56 Strategic adaptation to industry shifts 21:34 Demand for integrated CDMO models 22:55 Customer expectations: speed, excellence, and innovation 25:28 The importance of trust and long-term partnerships #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #CDMO #PharmaceuticalManufacturing #Biotech #DrugDevelopment #LifeSciences Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Hidden Challenges of Biologics Development - Dr. Adriana Kiędzierska-Mencfeld | 21 Apr 2026 | 00:27:04 | |
95% of our viewers aren’t subscribed. If you’re watching and not yet subscribed, please subscribe to the channel so you don’t miss future episodes. What does it really take to move from science into CEO leadership while delivering real impact for patients? This week on Making It In Manufacturing, Harry Sloan sat down with Dr Adriana Kiedzierska-Mencfeld, CEO of Rezon Bio, with 20 years of experience spanning biotech, biologics manufacturing, and leadership across industry and scientific roles. In this episode, Dr Adriana Kiedzierska-Mencfeld covers: - Transitioning from academia to industry and the drive to turn science into real patient value - Key leadership moments including entering new technology areas and managing high-pressure decision making - Leading through COVID, maintaining operations, and ensuring both product delivery and team safety - Transforming into a CDMO model and leading organisational change with clarity and purpose - Competing in a crowded CDMO market through cost discipline, quality standards, and operational efficiency If you are working in biotech, manufacturing, or scaling scientific innovation into real-world impact, this conversation offers a clear and grounded perspective on leadership, decision making, and building high-performing teams under pressure. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artotalent Dr Adriana Kiedzierska-Mencfeld LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-adriana-kiedzierska-mencfeld/ Harry Sloan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-sloan-605620154/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:33 Moving beyond science into leadership 02:06 Career-defining moments and leadership growth 04:56 Leading through COVID and regulatory pressure 06:01 FDA inspection and managing high-stakes environments 07:13 Transition to CDMO and company transformation 09:20 Launch of Resins Bio and stepping into CEO role 11:39 Building trust and delivering for clients 12:29 Cost competitiveness and market positioning 14:20 Speed, quality, and CDMO differentiation 15:22 Market trends and opportunities in biologics 17:33 CDMO positioning and capabilities 18:09 Balancing existing clients and new business 20:08 Personal career journey and challenges 21:44 Advice for women in biotech leadership 22:46 Future of biologics manufacturing 24:33 Motivation and leadership purpose #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #Biotech #CDMO #Biologics #LifeSciences #ManufacturingLeadership Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why CDMOs Must Scale Smarter - Peter Belden | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:10:13 | |
95% of our viewers aren’t subscribed. If you’re watching and not yet subscribed, please subscribe to the channel so you don’t miss future episodes. What does it take to scale pharmaceutical packaging operations globally while maintaining flexibility, quality, and speed to market? In this episode, we explore how strategic packaging partnerships directly impact patient access and commercial success. This week on Making It In Manufacturing, Harry Sloan sat down with Peter Belden, CCO of Tjoapack, with over 25 years of experience spanning outsourced pharmaceutical services across small, mid-sized, and large organisations, primarily within packaging and global supply chain operations. In this episode, Peter Belden covers: 00:00 How pharmaceutical packaging plays a critical role beyond the final step, directly influencing timelines and global market access 01:25 The growing need for late-stage customisation and flexible packaging to meet changing patient demand across multiple markets 02:21 Why successful CDMO partnerships start with deep client understanding, including patient population, dosing, and supply chain needs 03:43 Balancing speed to market with quality through strong planning, collaboration, and supply chain alignment 04:43 Strategic expansion in the US, including facility growth and new packaging lines to support long-term demand This conversation offers a practical look at how packaging strategy, operational discipline, and global experience come together to support pharmaceutical innovation at scale. If you are involved in manufacturing, supply chain, or CDMO partnerships, this episode provides valuable perspective grounded in real industry execution. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artotalent Peter Belden LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petersbelden/ Harry Sloan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-sloan-605620154/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:15 Overview of the company and CDMO positioning 01:04 Evolution of pharmaceutical packaging and flexibility 01:48 Late-stage customisation and supply chain adaptability 02:21 Building strong client partnerships in packaging 02:56 Scoping projects and delivering tailored solutions 03:21 Industry change and demand for speed to market 03:43 Balancing quality with responsiveness 04:20 Supply chain collaboration and planning cadence 04:34 US expansion and growth strategy 05:06 Facility expansion and new packaging lines 05:31 Managing growth and operational challenges 06:07 Long-term vision and scaling capabilities 06:50 Career journey into leadership 07:31 International experience and UK market integration 08:39 Adapting to global markets and client needs 09:03 Delivering across 40+ countries 10:05 Motivation and impact on patient access 10:22 Closing remarks #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #PharmaManufacturing #CDMO #SupplyChain #Biopharma Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Building a Pharma Company Is Harder Than You Think - David Stevens | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:15:02 | |
95% of our viewers aren’t subscribed. If you’re watching and not yet subscribed, please subscribe to the channel so you don’t miss future episodes. What does it really take to build a world-class pharmaceutical manufacturing business from the ground up while navigating risk, regulation, and rapid innovation? This week on Making It In Manufacturing, Harry Sloan sat down with David Stevens, CEO of Kindeva, with over 20 years of experience spanning CDMO leadership, startup scale-ups, and pharmaceutical manufacturing across both Europe and the United States, including leadership roles at Kindeva and prior ventures acquired within the pharma ecosystem. In this episode, David Stevens covers: (00:01:02) Transitioning from startup CEO to leading Kindeva, and the strategic vision behind building advanced sterile fill-finish capabilities (00:02:50) Scaling a biologics CDMO from zero to 250 employees during COVID, including lessons from building facilities and teams from scratch (00:05:41) The future of inhalation technologies, including the shift to low-carbon propellants and the impact on sustainability and patient choice (00:07:44) Designing next-generation sterile manufacturing facilities with Annex 1 compliance, advanced robotics, and contamination risk reduction (00:09:57) Why trust, transparency, and operational discipline are critical in a competitive CDMO landscape, especially when managing capacity and client expectations If you are working in pharmaceutical manufacturing, CDMO strategy, or scaling complex life sciences operations, this conversation offers a grounded perspective on leadership, growth, and building for long-term impact. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artotalent David Stevens LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davecstevens/ Harry Sloan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-sloan-605620154/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:14 Guest introduction and CEO journey 01:02 Career background and move into @Kindeva 02:50 Building and scaling a biologics CDMO 05:41 Vision for inhalation technology and sustainability 07:44 Future of sterile manufacturing and facility design 09:57 Trust and partnerships in CDMO relationships 12:12 Managing growth, capacity, and reputation 12:36 Long-term vision and defining success as CEO #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #PharmaceuticalManufacturing #CDMO #Biologics #LifeSciences #ManufacturingLeadership Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Hidden Challenges of Biologics Development - Dr. Adriana Kiędzierska-Mencfeld | 10 Apr 2026 | 00:27:04 | |
95% of our viewers aren’t subscribed. If you’re watching and not yet subscribed, please subscribe to the channel so you don’t miss future episodes. What does it really take to move from science into CEO leadership while delivering real impact for patients? This week on Making It In Manufacturing, Harry Sloan sat down with Dr Adriana Kiedzierska-Mencfeld, CEO of Rezon Bio, with 20 years of experience spanning biotech, biologics manufacturing, and leadership across industry and scientific roles. In this episode, Dr Adriana Kiedzierska-Mencfeld covers: - Transitioning from academia to industry and the drive to turn science into real patient value - Key leadership moments including entering new technology areas and managing high-pressure decision making - Leading through COVID, maintaining operations, and ensuring both product delivery and team safety - Transforming into a CDMO model and leading organisational change with clarity and purpose - Competing in a crowded CDMO market through cost discipline, quality standards, and operational efficiency If you are working in biotech, manufacturing, or scaling scientific innovation into real-world impact, this conversation offers a clear and grounded perspective on leadership, decision making, and building high-performing teams under pressure. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artotalent Dr Adriana Kiedzierska-Mencfeld LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-adriana-kiedzierska-mencfeld/ Harry Sloan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-sloan-605620154/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:33 Moving beyond science into leadership 02:06 Career-defining moments and leadership growth 04:56 Leading through COVID and regulatory pressure 06:01 FDA inspection and managing high-stakes environments 07:13 Transition to CDMO and company transformation 09:20 Launch of Resins Bio and stepping into CEO role 11:39 Building trust and delivering for clients 12:29 Cost competitiveness and market positioning 14:20 Speed, quality, and CDMO differentiation 15:22 Market trends and opportunities in biologics 17:33 CDMO positioning and capabilities 18:09 Balancing existing clients and new business 20:08 Personal career journey and challenges 21:44 Advice for women in biotech leadership 22:46 Future of biologics manufacturing 24:33 Motivation and leadership purpose #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #Biotech #CDMO #Biologics #LifeSciences #ManufacturingLeadership Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| This Model Could Replace Traditional CDMOs | 09 Apr 2026 | 00:20:52 | |
What if you could access GMP manufacturing without giving up control, ownership, or flexibility? In this episode, a new model challenges how biotech companies think about scaling. This week on Making It In Manufacturing, Harry Sloan sat down with Sarah Stevens, CEO of Chrysalis, with over 20 years of experience spanning CDMO services, technical operations, and leadership roles across biopharma manufacturing. In this episode, Sarah Stevens covers: (00:00) How Chrysalis is redefining the CDMO model with a hybrid approach that allows companies to retain control of IP, timelines, and manufacturing processes (02:20) Why today’s biotech environment demands more flexible, cost-conscious manufacturing strategies and how companies can better manage capital allocation (04:25) Where biotech companies get manufacturing strategy wrong when balancing speed versus long-term scalability in GMP processes (08:57) A 20-year career journey from academic research into executive leadership and what drives success in CDMO environments (13:21) How Chrysalis evolved its model into a scalable and mobile platform, enabling customers to transition seamlessly into their own facilities If you are navigating manufacturing strategy, scaling operations, or evaluating CDMO partnerships, this episode offers a clear perspective on how to approach flexibility, control, and long-term success in biopharma. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZOiJChOoN1KF2n1ng Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent?igsh=MWdhbWl5N204a253NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t=ZG-8tHbGACAZaj&_r=1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-beyond-the-lab/id1783115575 Website: https://arto-talent.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@life_sciences Sarah Stevens LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-stevens-1135964 Harry Sloan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-sloan-605620154/ #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #Biopharma #CDMO #GMP #BiotechManufacturing #LifeSciences Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Truth About Automation in Modern Biomanufacturing - Daniel Shearer, FujiFilm | 25 Mar 2026 | 00:16:32 | |
95% of our viewers aren't following, please check! How do you bring a $400M biotech facility online… without getting automation wrong? This week, in another episode of Making It in Manufacturing, we feature Daniel Shearer, Head of Automation at FUJIFILM, with over 15+ years of experience spanning automation engineering, capital projects, and large-scale biotech manufacturing environments. In this episode, Dan covers: - The $400M multi-modal manufacturing asset at Fujifilm’s Billingham site and what it takes to bring it online - How automation has evolved over the past decade and why data integration is now critical - The importance of standardisation, and how it can reduce cost, validation time, and complexity - Integration challenges across systems like MES, LIMS, and quality platforms - The most common pitfalls in automation projects, and how to avoid them Whether you're building a new facility or scaling existing operations, this episode is packed with practical insights from someone working at the forefront of modern biomanufacturing. 👉 Be sure to check out the full episode and learn how to get automation right from day one. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent/?viewAsMember=true Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZO... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent... TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Website: https://arto-talent.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artotalent Daniel Shearer Head of Automation at FUJIFILM Biotechnologies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-shearer-80574b36/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:24 $400M Multi-Modal Asset 01:38 Automation Challenges 06:59 Standardisation 11:18 Integration + Common Pitfalls Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Relentless Mindset Behind Scaling a Drug Manufacturing Company | Philippe Clavel | 25 Mar 2026 | 00:38:57 | |
Building a CDMO capable of taking therapies from early discovery to commercial supply requires more than scale. It requires scientific depth, operational discipline and a culture that embraces problems rather than avoids them. This week on Making It In Manufacturing, Harry Sloan sat down with Philippe Clavel, CEO of Curapath, bringing decades of experience across pharmaceutical manufacturing, leadership and CDMO strategy. In this episode, Philippe Clavel covers: • The evolution of CuraPath from a university spin-off focused on polymer science to a drug delivery CDMO serving biotech and large pharmaceutical companies (00:00) • Why deep scientific expertise in polymer science and lipid nanoparticles is essential for solving complex drug delivery challenges and improving manufacturing processes (02:29) • How CuraPath transitioned from early-stage discovery work to commercial manufacturing, growing from 0% commercial revenue to roughly 30% within five years (05:14) • The operational realities of scaling into GMP manufacturing, including building robust processes, documentation and training across the organisation (10:12) • Why successful CDMO partnerships are built on trust, technical questioning and understanding the deeper motivations behind a customer’s drug development programme (17:00) If you’re interested in the realities of scaling a specialist CDMO, building high-trust biotech partnerships and transforming scientific innovation into manufacturable therapies, this conversation offers valuable insight from someone leading that journey firsthand. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: / artotalent Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZO... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent... TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Website: https://arto-talent.com/ Youtube: @life_sciences Philippe Clavel LinkedIn: / philippe-clavel-cdmo-gxapis Harry Sloan / harry-sloan-605620154 Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 00:17 Overview of CuraPath and its drug delivery focus 02:29 What differentiates CuraPath as a CDMO 04:00 Balancing cost, scalability and complex modalities 05:14 Growth from discovery projects to commercial manufacturing 06:10 Expanding expertise from polymers to lipid nanoparticle technologies 07:41 Supporting customers across the full development journey 09:21 The significance of delivering a therapy reaching the market 10:12 Transitioning to GMP manufacturing and operational discipline 11:34 Challenges that come with scaling CDMO operations 13:27 Building a culture that embraces problems and deviations 15:27 Understanding customer motivations and building trust 18:24 Collaboration across supply chains within drug manufacturing 21:17 Maintaining company culture while scaling leadership 23:32 Encouraging challenge and empowerment within teams 27:13 Advice for business development professionals in CDMO 31:08 Future outlook for CuraPath and its pipeline 34:25 Personal motivation behind leading the company 39:02 Episode closing #MakingItInManufacturing #ARTOTalent #CDMO #PharmaceuticalManufacturing #DrugDelivery #Biotech #LifeSciences Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How Pharma Actually Sets Global Standards (GAMP Explained) | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:14:35 | |
95% of our listeners aren't following, please check! What does it take to standardise an entire industry, and keep pace with AI, cloud, and digital transformation? This week on Making It in Manufacturing, we feature Thana Subramanian, GAMP Global Steering Committee Co-Chair, with over 32 years of experience in idustry, with 25 years as an ISPE member and 15 years as part of the GAMP CoP. In this episode, Thana covers: - The history and purpose of ISPE and its role in advancing pharmaceutical manufacturing - How GAMP evolved alongside regulatory bodies like the FDA and EMA - The benefits of ISPE membership, from networking to access to global best practices - The origins and evolution of GAMP, from early guidance to modern AI-driven systems - The objectives and key themes of the latest GAMP UK Conference, including AI, digital validation, and data integrity If you’re working in pharma, biotech, or advanced manufacturing, this episode gives you a clear lens into how global standards are shaped — and where the industry is heading next. Be sure to check out the full episode. Follow ARTO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artotalent/?viewAsMember=true Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kEcRZO... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arto.talent... TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artotalent?_t... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Website: https://arto-talent.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artotalent Thana Subramanian GAMP Global Steering Committee Co-Chair LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thanasubramanian/ Thomas McMann Director - Contracts Division LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcmann-05540a10b/ Timestamps: 00:27 ISPE History 02:33 GAMP New Good Practice Guide (GxP Process Control Systems) Third Edition 07:32 Benefits of ISPE and GAMP Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||