Behind the scenes: How Bristol Myers Squibb is delivering science to patients

This article originally appeared in STAT. As a result, the third-person language used in this piece differs from our typical BMS articles.

Translating groundbreaking science into innovative treatments for patients is a complex journey, but one filled with immense opportunity and reward. This work requires foresight, iterative planning, collaboration and a team committed to execution. Comprised of more than 10,000 employees, BMS’ Global Product Development and Supply (GPS) organization draws on diverse experiences and perspectives to drive scientific breakthroughs and transformative results all in support of advancing the company’s most impactful work.

GPS includes global product development, global supply chain, global quality, global technical services, strategy and business excellence, and global manufacturing operations in biologics, small molecule and cell therapy development—all to help fulfill BMS’ vision of transforming patients’ lives through science. Guided by three core principles of delivering science, building the workforce of the future and championing sustainable innovation, GPS is unwavering in their commitment to reach more patients in need, a mission that drives their dedicated work each day.

Delivering science

GPS is comprised of multiple functions working together to deliver differentiated medicines across three core drug manufacturing platforms: biologics, small molecule and cell therapies.

Consider biologics, for example. These are complex medicines made from living organisms, such as cells or tissues, and are designed to treat a range of intricate diseases. Developing these products requires a workforce with a strong intellectual curiosity and an ability to incorporate technological advancements, thereby delivering differentiated value for BMS and its patients. The implementation of digital tools, deep understanding of the manufacturing process and deliberate focus on data integration, has led the team to deliver more medicines to patients faster. The team is rooted in collaboration, both internally and with external partners, to drive its goals of maximizing medicine doses while maintaining top-tier quality and lead times. This operational efficiency and agility drives patient centric innovation and empowers the biologics operating unit to respond swiftly to market demands and support the broader mission of BMS.

In pharma, small molecule products are chemical-based medicines designed to treat a wide range of diseases and medical conditions. This is achieved through embedding BMS’ patient-centric culture and driving the people and safety strategy to reliably supply commercial product and enable the pipeline for the future. Take the digital twin technology, which simulates the manufacturing shop floor. BMS has invested in this technology to simulate the processes, better inform decisions and mitigate risks. When it comes to the pharma supply chain, the two most important considerations are the capacity of production and delivery risks. Digital twin helps identify potential risks, better ensuring production and delivery to patients.

Building on BMS’ heritage of innovation, GPS plays an integral role in helping unlock the promise of cell therapy through its cell therapy development and operations (CTDO) operating model. A personalized approach to treating certain blood cancers, cell therapy requires an intensive process of modifying a patient’s cells before reintroducing them to recognize and fight specific cancer cells. To bring these lifesaving possibilities to more patients, the team is exploring novel ways to make cell therapies more efficient, scalable and accessible through new manufacturing platforms. With extensive discovery, development expertise and translational data capabilities, the BMS team is working toward a future where multiple platforms, engineering features and targets offer tailored options for patients across hematology, oncology, autoimmune diseases and beyond. 

Despite the therapeutic advances of the past decade, there remains a significant unmet need for new cancer treatments. This is why BMS is exploring new frontiers and pushing the boundaries of what is possible by harnessing the potential of radiopharmaceuticals through the acquisition of RayzeBio. BMS believes this type of innovation will help even more patients prevail over serious disease. Achieving these goals necessitates a best-in-class workforce, and building the workforce of the future is how we will continue to translate science into innovative treatments.

Building the workforce of the future

BMS’ achievements are driven by the commitment, talent and passion of its employees, who understand the intricacies of advancing products through development, and ultimately, to patients who need them. BMS is equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow through a continual investment in people to enable the next generation of pharmaceutical innovation.

BMS is the place for those who want to work on the cutting edge of pharmaceutical innovation. Problem-solving is in its DNA. The organization seeks out open-minded individuals with diverse expertise who can think creatively and find innovative solutions. This cross-sector knowledge base strengthens decision-making capabilities, which is crucial in an industry defined by urgency and the sensitive nature of its work.

As the field evolves, BMS empowers its employees to stay ahead of the curve, harnessing the power of the next wave of innovators while ensuring the current workforce is equipped with the latest knowledge and skills needed.

Championing sustainable innovation

Diverse perspectives elevate the reach of their work, contributing to greater equity and impact in the world around us.

Among its many ESG commitments, BMS’ environmental goals—like achieving net-zero emissions in Scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 2050—not only reflect its science-led, innovation-focused approach, but also ensures accountability to those they serve through strong governance and transparent reporting practices. Additionally, the company’s culture of inclusion has nurtured an agile and responsive work environment that drives sustainable innovation and positive community impact.   

GPS shoulders the critical responsibility to ensure BMS reliably supplies the highest-quality product of innovative medicines to patients around the world. By embracing cutting-edge technology, fostering a diverse and empowered workforce and upholding their commitment to sustainability, BMS is well equipped to deliver on this promise, today and for years to come.