“The future of pharmaceuticals lies in blending tradition with innovation, where generative AI and machine learning redefine how we develop and manufacture drugs.”—Idris Junaid
Idris Junaid is a seasoned manufacturing operations specialist with years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, and he is recognized for his dedication to innovation and operational excellence. Currently, he serves as a Purification Manufacturing Consultant at BeiGene in Hopewell, NJ, where he plays a critical role in enhancing downstream purification processes for drug substances. His expertise in commissioning, qualification, and validation (CQV), combined with a deep knowledge of regulatory compliance and Good Documentation Practices (GDP), establishes him as a leader in maintaining high manufacturing standards.
Idris’s professional journey showcases a wide array of technical proficiencies, including advanced skills in filtration and chromatography, with a focus on mammalian cell cultures and mRNA drug substances. His proficiency in SAP systems, such as SAP Fiori and S/4HANA, has been instrumental in global projects like the implementation of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and the migration to GSAP. He consistently demonstrates his ability to navigate complex manufacturing environments while adhering to cGMP standards, reinforcing his reputation for operational excellence.
In recognition of his impactful contributions to the pharmaceutical field, Idris was honored with the BAT Award of Excellence in 2024. His dedication to fostering innovation is evident in his role as a judge for the Dratech Hackathon 2023 and the Bridge Africa Innovation Awards, where he has supported and celebrated the achievements of African professionals making significant strides in their careers. These experiences underscore his commitment to leadership, talent development, and industry advancement.
Beyond his technical expertise, Idris is a collaborative team player known for his exceptional communication skills and problem-solving abilities. His proactive engagement with stakeholders and cross-functional teams has led to increased operational efficiencies and improved production outcomes. As he delves into the future of pharmaceuticals, he explores generative AI and machine learning applications, aiming to integrate these cutting-edge technologies into drug development processes.
Looking ahead, Idris is determined to leverage his extensive expertise in quality compliance and auditing to further enhance manufacturing operations within progressive organizations. His unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and staying ahead of industry trends makes him an invaluable asset to any team striving to drive pharmaceutical innovation. Through his work, Idris not only aims to improve patient outcomes but also to inspire and empower future generations of professionals in the pharmaceutical industry.
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In this interview, we delve into the impressive career of Idris Junaid, as he shares insights into his professional journey, notable achievements, and the unique perspectives he brings as a Nigerian excelling on the global stage. Join us as we explore his story, including his recent accolades and contributions to innovation within the field.
Round Table Chat with an Industry Giant —Idris Junaid
Personal Background and Inspiration
- Could you tell us about your journey from Nigeria to becoming a recognized expert in the pharmaceutical industry abroad? What inspired you to pursue this career path?
“My journey began in Nigeria, where I was born and raised. Growing up, I was always fascinated by science and its ability to solve complex problems. Chemistry, in particular, stood out to me because of its practical applications in improving lives. I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry at the University of Lagos, which laid a strong foundation for my career.
Later, I decided to further my studies by earning a Master’s in Analytical Chemistry at Stevens Institute of Technology in the United States. This decision was driven by my desire to gain global exposure and enhance my skills in a field I was deeply passionate about. The transition wasn’t without challenges, but my commitment to excellence and the support of mentors along the way kept me focused. Today, I’m proud to contribute to advancing pharmaceutical manufacturing and to represent my roots on a global stage.”
Professional Journey
- You’ve worked with renowned organizations like Moderna, Pfizer, and BeiGene. What key experiences shaped your expertise in manufacturing operations?
“Each role I’ve held has been a stepping stone in shaping my expertise. At Moderna, I gained hands-on experience with downstream purification processes, particularly using Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) and chromatography. These techniques helped increase production efficiency by 15%, and the experience reinforced my ability to optimize complex systems.
At Pfizer, I focused on compliance and operational excellence. One memorable aspect of my role was leading weekly GMP walkthroughs, where I proactively identified and resolved 85% of safety and compliance issues. It was a dynamic environment that required quick decision-making and collaborative teamwork.
Currently, at BeiGene, I’m leveraging all these experiences to advance purification processes for drug substances. This role allows me to combine my technical expertise with my passion for quality compliance and innovation, and it’s deeply fulfilling to know that the work I do contributes to developing life-saving medications.”
- How has your role at BeiGene allowed you to apply your expertise in quality compliance and auditing?
“My role at BeiGene has been an exciting opportunity to apply my expertise in ensuring the highest quality manufacturing standards. I’m involved in every stage of the process, from protocol development and execution to hands-on cGMP manufacturing activities. For instance, I’ve implemented Clean-In-Place (CIP) and Steam-In-Place (SIP) procedures, which are critical for maintaining sterile and efficient production environments.
Additionally, I contribute to design reviews and equipment validation, ensuring all processes align with cGMP and regulatory standards. These responsibilities not only challenge me to stay current with industry advancements but also allow me to make tangible contributions to the company’s success in drug substance purification.”
Awards and Recognitions
- What does receiving the BAT Award of Excellence in 2024 mean to you, and how has it influenced your career?
“Receiving the BAT Award of Excellence was one of the proudest moments of my career. It was an acknowledgment of years of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. Beyond personal satisfaction, the award reinforced the importance of my work and its impact on the industry.
It also served as a motivation to continue mentoring others, particularly aspiring professionals from Africa. I believe in giving back and using my platform to inspire others to dream big and pursue excellence in their fields.”
- You served as a judge for the Dratech Hackathon in 2023 and the BAT Innovation Award in 2022. How have these roles impacted your perspective on fostering innovation?
“Serving as a judge for these prestigious events was a humbling and inspiring experience. At the Dratech Hackathon, I was amazed by the innovative ideas presented by talented African professionals. It was a reminder of the immense potential we have as a continent to shape the future of various industries.
Similarly, the BAT Innovation Award gave me the opportunity to evaluate groundbreaking projects and celebrate individuals pushing the boundaries of technology and business. These experiences reinforced my belief in the power of mentorship and collaboration to drive innovation. They also inspired me to remain actively involved in initiatives that celebrate and support talent, particularly from underrepresented regions.”
Technical Expertise
- Can you elaborate on your proficiency with systems like SAP Fiori and S/4HANA and their role in your work?
“Over the years, I’ve developed strong expertise in SAP systems, including SAP Fiori and S/4HANA. These tools are invaluable in modern manufacturing operations. For example, during my time at Moderna, I played a key role in transitioning legacy systems to GSAP as a Subject Matter Expert. This transition improved data accuracy by 20% and streamlined global operations.
At Pfizer and BeiGene, I’ve utilized these systems for inventory management, ensuring alignment with purchase orders and minimizing discrepancies. By integrating these tools into daily operations, I’ve been able to enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and support seamless manufacturing workflows.”
Innovation and Research
- You’ve shown interest in generative AI and machine learning in pharmaceuticals. What potential do you see in these technologies?
“I believe generative AI and machine learning have transformative potential in pharmaceuticals. They can streamline processes, improve predictive analytics for quality control, and even accelerate drug discovery. For instance, AI-driven models could predict potential deviations in manufacturing processes, allowing for proactive adjustments.
Currently, I’m researching applications for these technologies in drug substance development. I envision a future where AI not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to more personalized and effective treatments for patients. It’s an exciting frontier, and I’m eager to be at the forefront of integrating these innovations into our industry.”
Cultural Impact
- As a Nigerian professional excelling abroad, how do you maintain ties with your roots while advancing in a global industry?
“My Nigerian heritage is a core part of who I am and continues to inspire my work. I stay connected by mentoring young professionals and participating in initiatives like the Dratech Hackathon, which celebrate African excellence.
It’s important to me to represent the immense talent and potential of Nigerians on a global stage. Every success I achieve is a testament to the values of resilience, determination, and community that I carry from home. By giving back and sharing my experiences, I hope to inspire others to pursue their ambitions, no matter where they are.”
Leadership and Teamwork
- How do you foster collaboration within cross-functional teams to achieve operational excellence?
“Collaboration is at the heart of any successful operation, especially in the pharmaceutical industry, where precision and compliance are critical. I prioritize clear communication and ensure that everyone on the team understands our shared goals. For instance, at Pfizer, I conducted real-time page reviews during production, which helped train team members on documentation best practices and reduced the review cycle by 20%.
I also make an effort to create an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and concerns. By fostering trust and openness, we’re able to identify and resolve issues quickly, improving overall efficiency. Leadership, to me, is about empowering others to excel, and I strive to bring out the best in every team I work with.”
Challenges and Achievements
- What has been the most challenging project in your career, and how did you overcome it?
“One of the most challenging projects I’ve worked on was leading the global deployment of GSAP while at Moderna. Transitioning from legacy systems to an advanced platform required meticulous planning, extensive training, and coordination across multiple sites. The scale and complexity of the task were immense, but I approached it systematically.
First, I collaborated with cross-functional teams to understand the unique requirements of each site. Then, I conducted hands-on training sessions to ensure everyone was equipped to navigate the new system. Despite the challenges, the project was a success, improving data accuracy by 20% and streamlining operations globally. It was a valuable learning experience and a testament to the power of teamwork and adaptability.”
- Could you share a notable achievement that had a significant impact on your organization?
“One achievement that stands out was my role in optimizing downstream purification processes at Pfizer. As part of a continuous improvement team, I conducted design reviews for the Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) systems, focusing on scaling processes from pilot batches to full-scale manufacturing.
This initiative not only minimized production losses but also increased scalability by 20%, significantly boosting the organization’s capacity to meet market demands. It was incredibly rewarding to see how a collaborative and data-driven approach could lead to such tangible results.”
Future Aspirations
- What are your professional aspirations, and how do you plan to achieve them?
“My ultimate goal is to lead the integration of AI-driven solutions into pharmaceutical manufacturing. I believe that technologies like generative AI and machine learning can revolutionize how we approach drug development, from streamlining processes to enhancing quality assurance.
To achieve this, I’m continuously expanding my knowledge through research and training. I also seek opportunities to collaborate with forward-thinking organizations that are committed to innovation. By staying at the cutting edge of industry trends and leveraging my expertise, I aim to contribute to the evolution of pharmaceutical manufacturing and improve patient outcomes worldwide.”
Advice and Inspiration
- What advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to succeed in the pharmaceutical industry?
“My advice is to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. The pharmaceutical industry is constantly evolving, and staying current with trends and technologies is essential. Seek mentors who can guide you and don’t be afraid to take on challenges that push you out of your comfort zone.
Additionally, build a strong foundation in regulatory compliance and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). These are non-negotiable in our field. Most importantly, never underestimate the value of teamwork and communication. Success in this industry is rarely a solo effort—it’s about collaborating effectively with others to achieve common goals.”
Cultural and Professional Impact
- As someone who has judged events like the Dratech Hackathon and the BAT Innovation Award, how do you see your role in shaping the future of the industry?
“Judging these events has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career. It allows me to not only recognize talent but also provide constructive feedback and mentorship to innovators and young professionals. At the Dratech Hackathon, I saw firsthand the creativity and resilience of African professionals. It was inspiring to see ideas that could transform industries and improve lives.
Through these roles, I hope to contribute to a culture of innovation and excellence. I believe that by celebrating and supporting talent, we can create an ecosystem where professionals feel empowered to push boundaries. It’s a privilege to be part of such initiatives, and I look forward to continuing to support and inspire the next generation of industry leaders.”
Closing the Interview
As our conversation with Idris Junaid comes to a close, it’s clear that his journey is not just a story of professional excellence but also one of resilience, passion, and the unwavering pursuit of innovation. From his roots in Nigeria to his remarkable achievements in the pharmaceutical industry abroad, Idris exemplifies the transformative power of dedication and hard work.
Throughout this interview, Idris has shared insights into his extensive expertise, from mastering manufacturing operations and quality compliance to driving process optimization through advanced technologies like SAP systems and Tangential Flow Filtration. His contributions to global pharmaceutical leaders like Moderna, Pfizer, and BeiGene have showcased his ability to deliver measurable results, whether by increasing production efficiency or ensuring stringent regulatory compliance.
Recognized with the prestigious BAT Award of Excellence in 2024, Idris’s impact extends beyond his technical achievements. His role as a judge at the Dratech Hackathon and the BAT Innovation Award highlights his dedication to fostering innovation and mentoring the next generation of professionals, particularly those from Africa. These roles underscore his commitment to giving back, celebrating talent, and inspiring others to reach for excellence.
But what stands out most about Idris is his forward-thinking vision for the industry. His interest in integrating generative AI and machine learning into pharmaceutical processes reflects a mindset that embraces the future while maintaining a strong foundation in established practices. It’s this blend of tradition and innovation that positions him as a leader poised to make even greater contributions in the years to come.
As Bridge Africa Technologies recognizes Idris as one of the Nigerians excelling in his field abroad, his story serves as a beacon of inspiration for the youth. His journey reminds us that success is built on continuous learning, resilience in the face of challenges, and a willingness to push boundaries. Idris’s advice to aspiring professionals—to embrace adaptability, seek mentorship, and value teamwork—resonates deeply as practical guidance for anyone looking to make a mark in their chosen field.
Idris Junaid’s achievements reflect not just individual excellence but also the potential of a generation determined to innovate and contribute to global progress. His story is a testament to what’s possible when talent meets opportunity, and it leaves us hopeful for the future of industries shaped by leaders like him.
As we close this session, we thank Idris for sharing his experiences and insights. His journey is a reminder that, no matter where you begin, perseverance, skill, and vision can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. To the youth, let this be a call to action—dream big, work hard, and remember that your contributions can impact not just your community but the world at large.
