Dose #8: Clinical Supply Chains and Future of Work with Brian Doel (Bristol Myers Squibb)

In this episode of SCW for Pharma, host Evren Ozkaya welcomes Brian Doel, Vice President of Clinical Supply Chain, Global Supply Chain at Bristol Myers Squibb. The conversation kicks off with Brian's insights into the pharmaceutical industry, emphasizing its role as a beacon of hope for millions and highlighting the rapid transformation driven by orphan and personalized medicines. Evren and Brian delve into the complexities of the clinical supply chain, noting that only 10% of drug trials result in a marketable product. Brian explains how products evolve through phases 1, 2, and 3 of clinical trials, considering factors like durability and storage. Brian reveals that around 5,000 trials commence annually, each with a unique cyclical supply chain tailored to its specific requirements. He underscores the necessity of an agile mindset to manage these innovative and responsive supply chains effectively. The discussion then shifts to the critical role of data-driven decision-making in managing complex supply chains. Brian highlights the productivity gains from automating repetitive tasks and integrating AI into decision-making processes. He emphasizes that AI should augment rather than replace human roles and that cultural change and worker training are essential for leveraging technology's full potential. Collaboration among consultants, academia, and businesses can further enhance digitization efforts. Brian also discusses the importance of investing in demand-sensing technologies for cyclical supply chain professionals, especially given the low volumes often associated with rare disease drugs. Despite these challenges, he identifies several "low-hanging fruits" where digitalization can significantly improve processes and reduce costs with minimal effort and expense. Evren and Brian conclude their informative conversation by advocating for openness to change. They emphasize that adaptability will be the most crucial skill for individuals and organizations in the future and urge pharma companies to embrace the evolving business landscape promptly.