Issue: July / August 2024

In the dynamic landscape of pharmaceutical outsourcing, Rick L. Knight, Global Head, Strategic Account Management at Pfizer CentreOne, reveals how biotech and pharma companies are increasingly turning to contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) for support in overcoming capacity constraints, accessing specialized expertise and accelerating time-to-market. He explores how integrated CDMOs (those embedded within leading pharmaceutical companies) offer distinct advantages, including established supplier relationships, access to cutting-edge facilities and deep regulatory knowledge to help bring therapies to patients sooner.

This article aims to elucidate the dynamics and intricacies of Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs), mainly for small molecules in the chemical pharmaceutical industry, contrasting them with traditional outsourcing practices. It explores the critical factors for success, including the balance between hard factors (infrastructure, technology) and soft factors (customer orientation, reliability). The piece discusses the historical context, market trends, and future projections, highlighting the competitive landscape and challenges faced by both established and emerging CDMOs. Recent market data and strategic advice for navigating this complex industry are presented.