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When values meet systems – Sever Pharma Solutions’ success story

24 October, 2024

Anchor Management

An interview with Christian Frandsen, CFO at Sever Pharma Solutions

Hi Christian! It's great that you have the opportunity to talk to me about Sever Pharma Solutions (SPS) and the project when you upgraded your ERP system. First of all, can you briefly describe SPS?

About Sever Pharma Solutions

Sever Pharma Solutions is a leading CDMO (Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization) and specializes in controlled release systems for high potency drugs. With over 40 years of experience, we offer end-to-end services from development to commercial production. Our expertise in polymer-based delivery systems and sterile injectables makes us a trusted partner for pharmaceutical companies worldwide. In addition, we strive to turn pharmaceutical ideas into reality through our deep knowledge, advanced technologies and global GMP compliance.

Sever Pharma Solutions
Sever Pharma Solutions

The challenge: An outdated ERP system

SPS was using Movex as its ERP system, which had become outdated and lacked support. Few people externally could provide system support, which posed a major risk to the company.

The solution: Upgrade to Infor M3

To address these risks, SPS decided to launch a project aimed at upgrading the ERP system from Movex to Infor M3. When Christian joined SPS, the project was just in the start-up phase. Christian took responsibility for the financial parts, while the then IT manager had overall responsibility.

Challenges at the beginning of the project

The project encountered several problems. SPS lacked experience in running large IT projects and relied on external consultants. Ambiguities in implementation, a lack of understanding of the system's adaptations and an unclear vision prolonged the project. In addition, SPS and the consultants did not understand each other, which led to the need to restart the project after the budget was exceeded. The situation required drastic measures to complete the project.

Anchor Management Consulting comes into the picture

Christian took over responsibility for the project and realized that SPS needed help with project management. Following recommendations, SPS chose to hire Anchor Management Consulting for a feasibility study (a so-called Quick Assessment). Anchor analyzed the current situation and presented a roadmap with a schedule and budget to the steering committee. They decided to restart the project with a limited scope where functionality that does not belong in an ERP system would be excluded.

Why SPS chose Anchor?

Christian explains:

"Anchor had a pragmatic approach and a good structure with clear phases. Furthermore, they were able to understand our situation and manage the project effectively. In addition, they had experience of working with clients in regulated industries."

Project relaunch and success

When the project restarted, SPS engaged Anchor Management Consulting and Stina Berggren took on the role of SPS project manager. Stina's positive energy and clear leadership improved the project significantly. Clear expectations meant that everyone delivered on their commitments. At the same time, collaboration with external parties improved and SPS got the functionality they needed. The project was completed on time and on budget!

Results and future plans

A major benefit for SPS is that they are now using Infor M3, a supported ERP system, and they are no longer dependent on the systems expertise of individual consultants. Although SPS is not yet using all the functionality of the ERP system, they are now working on realizing the business benefits and starting to use additional features of Infor M3.

Would you recommend working with Anchor to others?

Christian recommends Anchor for similar projects in medium-sized companies:

"Anchor is a very good cultural fit for companies like SPS. They share our values and work culture, which makes that collaboration smoother and more efficient!"

An inspiring work environment: the project room that created magic

Christian says the project had its own project room that became a focal point for the team. Thanks to Stina Berggren's positive energy and leadership, there was always a very good atmosphere there. Stina and the team worked hard and their commitment and positive attitude spread throughout the company. The good atmosphere in the project room helped to create an inspiring work environment that not only benefited the project but also the whole company. Christian reflects that this is "something that is rare to experience in projects".

Many thanks, Christian!

Thank you Christian for a nice chat and good luck in the future! Want to know more about Sever Pharma Solutions? Visit their website: https://www.severpharmasolutions.com/

Facts: Movex and Infor M3

The Swedish company Intentia developed the Movex ERP system, which was introduced in 1984. The system managed complex supply chains, manufacturing, inventory management, delivery and aftermarket. Through a number of mergers, the system was renamed Infor M3. Infor M3 is a scalable and open business system with high functionality, adapted for medium and large companies with multinational operations. It is used in industries such as manufacturing, process industries and food.

Anchor is a very good cultural fit for companies like SPS. They share our values and work culture, which makes collaboration smoother and more efficient!
Christian Frandsen

Christian Frandsen

CFO Sever Pharma Solutions, Sweden