PharmaSource Podcast

Stephen Sheehan of Alkermes shares their new governance framework for high-performing CDMO partnerships. As Director of External Development & Manufacturing at Alkermes, Stephen Sheehan brings over a decade of experience in pharmaceutical development, transitioning from small to large molecules, and implementing innovative CDMO management frameworks. Based in Dublin, he’s responsible for managing CDMOs involved in development activities and manufacturing of Alkermes’ drug development candidates. In this insightful interview, Stephen reveals how a critical batch failure led to the development of a comprehensive CDMO governance framework, and shares valuable insights on building effective CDMO relationships, establishing meaningful KPIs, and implementing sustainable practices in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Read the full interview Stephen will be hosting an Outsourcing Excellence Roundtable at CDMO Live about KPIs and governance frameworks for managing contract manufacturing networks. Join the conversation: CDMO Live 2025

For us, it’s not a transaction. It really is a partnership,” says Nikki Whitfield, CEO of Upperton Pharma Solutions. Nikki Whitfield brings over three decades of pharmaceutical development experience to her role as CEO of Upperton Pharma Solutions. A chemist by background and self-described “formulator by heart,” she has significant experience developing sterile and non-sterile dosage forms for small and mid-sized pharma companies, including a tenure at Quotient Sciences, before taking the helm at Upperton in 2021. In the latest episode of the PharmaSource podcast , Nikki shared insights on how CDMOs can better serve small and emerging biotech companies, highlighting the importance of flexible partnerships and scientific expertise in driving successful drug development programmes. Her perspective, shaped by experience on both sides of the CDMO relationship, offers valuable insights for companies seeking manufacturing partnerships. Read the full article

Hanns-Christian Mahler, Chief Enablement Officer at ten23 health, is redefining leadership in pharmaceutical manufacturing: “I believe collaboration at the workplace should be primarily based on trust and motivation, not on typical carrot and stick command and control models.” Founded in 2021, ten23 health has a mission to be a human-centric and sustainable strategic partner of the pharmaceutical industry. With extensive experience at companies including Merck, Roche, and Lonza, Hanns-Christian brings a fresh perspective to the CDMO space, combining technical expertise with innovative leadership approaches. In the latest episode of the PharmaSource podcast, Hanns-Christian shared insights into how ten23 health is revolutionising the CDMO sector through three key pillars: expertise-driven services, human-centric leadership, and sustainable operations. The company’s unique approach demonstrates how CDMOs can differentiate themselves in a competitive market while prioritising both people and planet. Read more Connect with ten23 health at CDMO Live 2025, 7-8th May 2025 at the World Trade Center, Rotterdam. Find out more about the event here

John Childers, Director of Business Development for Wacker Biotech’s North American operations, emphasises the importance of early CDMO partnerships: “Working with an experienced CDMO partner can really help you stay on track for budget and schedule. Think long term – the investment with an external partner can substantially save you time and money.” As part of Wacker Chemie, a century-old German chemical company, the biotech division leverages over 20 years of experience in advanced therapy manufacturing for contract development and manufacturing. Speaking to the PharmaSource podcast ahead of CDMO Live 2025, John shares best practices for successful partnerships and explains how Wacker Biotech is positioning itself for growth in the evolving contract manufacturing landscape. Read the full article