GENE ONLINE|News &
Opinion
Blog

.

Зеркало официального сайта всегда доступно для входа на Мостбет, даже при ограничениях. Скачать Mostbet – это шаг к удобству и азартным развлечениям.

Если вы ищете место для увлекательных ставок, обратите внимание на Joycasino, где лучшие предложения для игроков ждут вас.
2025-01-29| Asia PacificIn-Depth

SEQENS: A Strategic Blueprint for Supply Chain Success in Pharmaceuticals

by Bernice Lottering
Share To
SEQENS drives supply chain success with innovative logistics, sustainability, localized initiatives, regulatory compliance, and strategic R&D investments for growth.

Charlie Sheerajin, site Managing Director in Thailand for SEQENS, is on a mission to integrate global expertise with local innovation across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. His efforts extend to streamlining supply chain logistics, ensuring efficiency and adaptability in this rapidly evolving market. In a recent conversation, Sheerajin detailed his efforts to bring lessons from his Harvard Business School executive education program to bear on the fast-paced and dynamic industries in APAC. “Harvard’s teachings are deeply rooted in the US and European markets,” he remarked, emphasizing the need to adapt these insights for regional relevance. His work focuses on creating sustainable frameworks that inspire domestic talent rather than relying on expat workforces. “To make it sustainable, you’ve got to inspire the domestic workforce,” Sheerajin noted. This approach also includes fostering open communication channels and emphasizing sustainability at every level to ensure long-term success.

The “Beans and Bullets” of Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Logistics

In the pharmaceutical industry, the “beans and bullets” metaphor aptly captures the essentials of supply chain logistics, emphasizing the importance of robust operational frameworks and strategic agility. For SEQENS Thailand, adaptability is evident in their significant shift from a traditional “made-to-stock” model to a more agile “made-to-order” system. This transformation has optimized operational efficiency, enabling the company to meet customer demands with precision through just-in-time delivery and on-time, in-full (OTIF) performance. SEQENS recognized the need to evolve beyond stockpiling products to better respond to market needs. SEQENS focuses on external supply, solidifying its position in key markets like the United States, South America, the European Union, and the Asia Pacific (APAC) region.

Sheerajin emphasized the importance of this dynamic, stating, “We make and ship to ensure OTIF—on time and in full—customer demand.” This change highlights a keen understanding of the evolving global supply chain, especially as markets recover from logistical disruptions in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. SEQENS’ ability to pivot quickly, adapt to challenges, and maintain timely deliveries is a key strength, reflecting operational efficiency likened to ensuring that “troops have beans and bullets” during critical missions. Through this approach, SEQENS ensures it remains responsive and continues to meet global demand effectively.

Adaptability: Key to Thriving in an Ever-Changing Market

Through this, we can see that adaptability is the fundamental aspect of any company that seeks to thrive in today’s ever-changing market. It is essential for navigating disruptions, optimizing operations, and ensuring long-term success. As Sheerajin explains, “We’ve learned that adaptability is key to survival. The ability to pivot and adjust to changing circumstances is critical in maintaining business continuity.” By embracing adaptability, companies like SEQENS can pivot their strategies, streamline processes, and stay resilient in the face of unforeseen challenges. This mindset is particularly vital in supply chain management, where the ability to adjust quickly and efficiently can make the difference between meeting customer demands and falling behind.

The move to a demand-driven approach reflects SEQENS’s adaptability to an evolving global supply chain landscape. Previously, maintaining stock was crucial to mitigate logistical delays when operating from Asia, but with the stabilization of global supply chains post-pandemic, the company streamlined its operations. “Now OTIF becomes very, very important from the old conceptualization of the way to address the shipment,” Sheerajin noted. This shift not only enhances logistical efficiency but also reduces waste, aligning with SEQENS’s sustainability goals by minimizing financial strain from overproduction.

Sustainability Through Optimized Supply Chains

By enhancing operational continuity, SEQENS has demonstrated its commitment to both sustainability and resilience, driving long-term success. “This transition has not only improved our logistics but also brought us closer to our sustainability targets, reducing the environmental footprint of overproduction,” Sheerajin highlighted.

In today’s world, where disruptions like COVID-19 and geopolitical tensions are common, sustainability has become a top priority for businesses. SEQENS has responded by adopting smarter supply chain strategies that focus on maintaining smooth operations. For example, when delays are expected, the company adjusts production schedules to avoid stop-and-go inefficiencies. “If we could project delays, we slowed production to keep things running smoothly,” Sheerajin said. This proactive approach helps SEQENS stay resilient and sustainable, even in a volatile global market.

Integrating ESG and CSR into Operations: Leading with Innovation

As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, SEQENS is now integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives into its core operations. A major focus is reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing waste.

While recycling and reprocessing can address much of the waste, some materials inevitably enter the waste stream. To combat this, SEQENS has developed a proprietary waste recycling process, specifically at its Thailand facility, that has become a model for innovation in the industry. “We can now recycle nearly 90% of our waste, if not more, and repurpose it as an active ingredient or excipient for personal care products,” Sheerajin shared. This breakthrough has not only minimized waste but also created a new business unit focused on personal care, solidifying SEQENS’s position as a vertically integrated supplier for both the healthcare and personal care markets. By tapping into sustainable solutions for both internal operations and external stakeholders, SEQENS demonstrates that environmentally responsible practices can also drive market growth.

Non-GMP Waste Processing and Traceability: Ensuring Compliance and Accountability

While the waste recycling process is classified as non-GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice), traceability remains a key principle in ensuring compliance. Even waste products derived from GMP materials, such as expired aspirin, are meticulously tracked. “The paper trail is almost as important as the process itself,” Sheerajin emphasized, underscoring the importance of thorough documentation to ensure transparency and regulatory compliance. This meticulous traceability system not only supports product recall readiness but also ties back to GMP principles, ensuring SEQENS maintains high standards in managing waste. “Traceability for any type of recall or return is a key GMP concept,” Sheerajin noted, referencing the importance of these practices in preventing product safety issues, like the recent nutraceutical product recall in Japan.

Lifestyle Healthcare and Consumer Healthcare: A Growing Market with Sustainable Solutions

SEQENS’s innovative approach to waste recycling is also fueling its expansion into the Life Science, Beauty and Personal Care markets. By recycling waste at its global sites, such as its French manufacturing facility, and processing it in Thailand, SEQENS strengthens its vertical integration, positioning itself for significant growth in the personal care sector. “We’ve established a proprietary process in Thailand, making it a hub for converting waste into valuable inputs for personal care products,” Sheerajin said. This strategic expansion not only highlights SEQENS’s commitment to sustainability but also offers a clear example of how waste management and resource efficiency can drive business success. As the company continues to innovate, it sets a new standard for the industry, demonstrating that sustainable practices and market growth can go hand in hand.

Strategic Localization and Global Reach

SEQENS’ global logistics network is yet another key to its supply chain success. The U.S. represents, and the rest is spread across Asia-Pacific and South America. This strategic localization is supported by manufacturing sites in regions like France and Thailand, which help the company remain resilient amid market volatility. Sheerajin stated, “We are poised to deliver globally, but with a focus on regulatory compliance and market stability.” This enables SEQENS to stay flexible in mature markets and explore new opportunities in growing regions like South America. Further, as economies recover from pandemic-related disruptions, SEQENS is positioning itself for further growth in emerging markets like China and Russia. Sheerajin highlighted, “We prioritize intellectual property protection and market stability while exploring new opportunities.”

Despite these advantages, regulatory challenges persist. SEQENS’ Regulatory Affairs (RA) team is central to its growth strategy. By closely monitoring global regulations, Sheerajin emphasized the role of SEQENS’ RA team in addressing these issues to ensure the company remains compliant in key markets, stating “Our RA team ensures compliance with current and future movements.” Essentially, a robust regulatory framework has allowed the company to maintain licenses in critical markets. Sheerajin explained, “We ensure compliance with the current landscape and keep abreast of future movements.” With established licenses from bodies like the U.S. FDA and EU regulatory agencies, SEQENS navigates complex regulations to maintain its competitive edge, so that, despite the complexities of saturated markets, the company can focus on increasing market share by optimizing operations and ensuring compliance.

Sheerajin further noted, “Even though the market is flat, we’re working to increase our market share within those regions.” This focus on regulatory compliance and operational efficiency is key to SEQENS’ continued growth.

Innovation as the Next Frontier

To remain competitive in a stable but saturated market, SEQENS is investing heavily in R&D capabilities. Sheerajin highlighted the establishment of the SEQENS Lab in Porcheville, France, which employs over 150 PhDs to develop early-stage clinical solutions and pilot batches. “Major pharmaceutical companies are downsizing R&D and outsourcing, creating opportunities for CDMOs like us to step in,” he remarked. This strategic pivot reflects a broader industry trend where innovation in upstream development becomes as critical as maintaining operational excellence downstream. The company’s strategic focus on in-house R&D positions it to support clinical trials effectively, filling a critical gap in the pharmaceutical pipeline. While its primary R&D initiatives target Western markets, SEQENS maintains a modest presence in South Asia, leveraging its site in India to support APAC needs.

Building Connections to Foster Growth

Since April, Sheerajin has embarked on a whirlwind tour of APAC nations, from Japan and Taiwan to Australia and China, leveraging his Harvard alumni network to create localized initiatives. In Taiwan, for example, he connected a cohort of professionals who shared common educational experiences but had yet to collaborate regionally. These grassroots efforts are already bearing fruit, with participants taking the initiative to promote awareness and drive local projects.

Sheerajin attributes much of his success to maintaining strong professional relationships throughout his 30-year career. “I’ve never burned a bridge,” he shared, highlighting the importance of fostering long-term connections. His efforts extend beyond professional networks; understanding cultural nuances has been pivotal. Reflecting on his return to Thailand after decades in the US, he noted, “It took a couple of years to make in-roads with the domestic workforce, but speaking and understanding Thai gave me extra leverage.” This sensitivity to cultural context adds significant value to fostering meaningful, localized engagement.

Driving Operational Agility and Efficiency in the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain

SEQENS’s shift to a “made-to-order” model has enabled the company to meet customer needs with precision and reliability, positioning it as a leader in the pharmaceutical supply chain. This strategic approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also sets a benchmark for other companies aiming to improve their agility in the market. By embracing ESG and CSR initiatives, optimizing supply chain operations, and pioneering innovative waste recycling solutions, SEQENS demonstrates that sustainability and operational excellence go hand in hand.

Additionally, its global logistics network, strong focus on regulatory compliance, and significant investments in R&D further strengthen its position for long-term growth. The company’s localized initiatives in emerging markets, supported by a resilient manufacturing infrastructure and a robust regulatory framework, offer scalable, sustainable solutions that benefit the broader pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare sectors. These combined efforts drive market growth, improve regulatory compliance, and ensure SEQENS’s continued success in an evolving global landscape.

©www.geneonline.com All rights reserved. Collaborate with us: [email protected]
Related Post
Pharma’s Growing (R)evolution: Sustainability and Innovations Shaping the Industry
2025-01-07
Academia Sinica: An R&D Powerhouse Fueling Advancements in Biotech, Pharma, and Medical Research
2024-12-18
CNS Drug-Maker Reviva Announces $18M Public Offering of Common Stock and Warrants to Fund R&D
2024-12-17
LATEST
Novo Nordisk Bets Big on CagriSema With A Heavyweight Move Planned for 2026
2025-02-07
Major Win – FDA Grants Fast Track Designation to Adicet Bio’s ADI-001 for Lupus Disease
2025-02-07
First-of-its-Kind Diagnostic Aid Uses a Single Hair Strand to Detect Autism Risk in Babies
2025-02-06
Teladoc Dials Up Virtual Care with $70 Million Acquisition of Catapult
2025-02-06
Silicon Valley in the Crosshairs as EU Readies to Strike U.S. Big Tech
2025-02-06
Johnson & Johnson Under Fire Again as Legal Action Over Alleged Talc-Cancer Link Moves to the UK
2025-02-05
MediBuddy Partners with Japan’s ELECOM to Launch Smart Health IoT Devices in India
2025-02-05
EVENT
2025-02-05
Precision Medicine World Conference 2025
Santa Clara, California
2025-02-19
Healthcare Conference Taipei 2025
Taipei, Taiwan
2025-03-17
BIO-Europe Spring 2025
Milan, Italy
2025-04-21
World Vaccine Congress 2025
Washington, U.S.A
2025-04-25
AACR Annual Meeting 2025
Chicago, U.S.A
Scroll to Top