Conducting a Biotech Logistics Process Assessment
Clarkston Consulting completed a biotech logistics process assessment for a leading RNAi therapeutics company. Read a synopsis of the project below or download the full case study.
Download the Biotech Logistics Process Assessment Case Study Here
Clarkston partnered with the tech ops organization at a leading RNAi therapeutics company with the goal of moving away from disjointed, disparate logistics activities and consolidating them under an optimized, compliant, and centralized Global Logistics function. As part of this collaboration, Clarkston conducted a comprehensive current-state assessment, engaged cross-functional stakeholders, and identified key process gaps and redundancies. The team developed a future-state operating model that streamlined global logistics workflows, enhanced visibility and compliance, and enabled greater scalability to support the company’s rapid growth. This transformation positioned the organization to improve efficiency, reduce risk, and align logistics operations with broader business objectives.
After establishing internal and cross-functional ways of working, roles and responsibilities were formalized through a comprehensive RACI framework, ensuring alignment, accountability, and clear ownership across the business. With a focus on resiliency, efficiency, and versatility, the centralized and streamlined Global Logistics function was designed to support the seamless movement and storage of materials across a complex network of 25+ CMOs, warehouses, suppliers, and internal manufacturing sites.
Clarkston worked closely with stakeholders to develop optimized, fit-for-purpose processes that not only meet compliance requirements but also foster a proactive approach to supply chain operations. These defined processes are built to adapt and scale, supporting the biotech organization’s growth trajectory and strengthening its ability to respond to dynamic global supply demands. This transformation has laid the foundation for a best-in-class logistics operation, tightly aligned with business strategy and equipped to enable future innovation.
Training was then designed to equip stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of the new supply chain processes, emphasizing the workflows, key activities, and critical system-driven steps essential for successful execution. The curriculum also highlighted the shifts in roles and responsibilities, reinforced cross-functional ways of working, and increased visibility into end-to-end logistics operations. A core focus of the training was the importance of leveraging the system (SAP) as an enabler of these processes, ensuring alignment between technology and operations.
Prior to implementation, the new processes were thoroughly proceduralized and captured in a dedicated Logistics Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). This SOP served as a clear, consistent, and actionable reference guide for employees, fostering alignment and accountability across all teams while supporting a smooth transition to the centralized logistics model.
