Facility Design for Optimized Contract Manufacturing

Ranjit Deshmukh, who has 25 years of experience at firms such as Pfizer and AstraZeneca, spoke with PharmTech ahead of INTERPHEX 2026 to provide his insights into strategic facility design for contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs). As the founder of BiologixCMC, Deshmukh emphasizes that CDMOs must design facilities with a long-term horizon, ensuring that chosen technologies remain viable and primary for at least 5-10 years.

Modern CDMOs must balance technological viability with high flexibility to meet the needs of diverse clients. Deshmukh highlights that the most efficient organizations focus on maximizing facility utilization through quick turnarounds . This is achieved by implementing standardized processes and utilizing similar, swappable equipment trains. While standardization is key, the facility’s operating model must remain adaptable enough to handle the unique nuances of various client processes. Ultimately, optimal performance is the result of strategic facility design, appropriate equipment choice, and refined operating strategies.

To adapt to future requirements, Deshmukh advises CDMOs to maintain a constant “pulse” on industry trends, regulatory shifts, and quality standards. This involves proactive engagement with leading clients, industry experts, and facility vendors during the early design phases. By probing and surveying these stakeholders, CDMOs can better landscape their technology decisions and effectively hedge their investments against future industry changes.

Deshmukh will be participating in the Quick Fire session, “Facility Design Optimization for CMO and 503B Manufacturing”, on Wednesday, April 22 at 3PM at INTERPHEX, which is being held in New York City from April 21–23.