Smart Sourcing in Pharma R&D
Innovation remains non-negotiable in pharmaceutical R&D – but so does cost discipline. With longer innovation cycles, tightening budgets, and increasingly complex supplier ecosystems, traditional ways of managing R&D expenses are no longer sustainable. Leading pharma companies are now proving that strategic sourcing can reduce costs, improve transparency, and accelerate innovation – without compromising patient safety or scientific rigor.
What can you take away from this article?
This article shows how procurement is evolving into a strategic partner for R&D, enabling companies to balance scientific ambition with financial discipline. You will learn:
- Why R&D sourcing must move from fragmented, informal practices to structured governance models.
- How supplier segmentation and long-term CRO partnerships improve cost transparency and performance.
- The role of early demand and scope management in avoiding redundant service layers and enabling competitive pricing.
- How consistent commercial frameworks – from milestone-based payments to incentive models – simplify contracts and boost accountability.
The article is part of our magazine issue Achieving Cost Excellence.
In addition, you will also receive the following articles when you download the issue:
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