Patrick Schum

Drug Product Manufacturing Enthusiast | CDMO/CMO Management | Solving Problems in the External Manufacturing Space

Polpharma Biologics · Hochschule Pforzheim - Gestaltung, Technik, Wirtschaft und Recht

About

With > 9 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, I specialize in leading the manufacturing of Drug Products, including Sterile Injectables and Oral Solid Dosage forms. My expertise spans both internal and external manufacturing, with a track record in optimizing contract manufacturing partnerships and overseeing greenfield facility ramp-ups. I excel in leading teams—both on the shop floor and in cross-functional, matrix and virtual settings—where I drive productivity, enhance process efficiency and ensure compliance with GMP and regulatory standards. Whether managing high-stakes projects or navigating complex supply chain challenges, I am known for my ability to deliver results through strategic, solution-oriented thinking and decisive action. After leaving Pfizer in December 2024, I have remained active by launching a small seasonal ramen pop-up in Oberägeri now developed into a permanent establishment. A hands-on initiative that has sharpened my skills in navigating regulatory requirements, managing stakeholders, coordinating suppliers and overseeing branding and operational set-up.

Experience

  • DP & DP Development Principal at Polpharma Biologics
    Nov 2025 - Present · 1 yr

  • Co-Founder at Ramen am See
    Feb 2025 - Oct 2025 · 9 mos

    Stakeholder Management, Business-Analyse and +4 skills

  • Pfizer (1 yr 1 mo)
    • Virtual Site Lead & Supplier Relationship Manager
      Mar 2024 - Dec 2024 · 10 mos

      Promoted. Responsibility for the relationship with a CMO providing DP and FDP activities for a high potent OSD. Ensuring Pfizers expectations are met while balancing the needs of the CMO and maintaining a collaborative, healthy relationship. • Leading 2x Virtual Management Teams (VMT) without formal authority • Improved the sites schedule adherence, release timeliness and Yield • Prepared the CMO for the transition from Seagen to Pfizer IT systems & processes. Minimized disruption & frustration • Ensured regular exchange between internal functions to build consensus and speak with one voice to the CMO • Responsible for contracts, budget development, site performance monitoring and coordinating CMO governance.

    • Virtual Site Lead
      Dec 2023 - Mar 2024 · 4 mos

      Pfizer acquired Seagen. No change in responsibilities.

  • Virtual Site Lead at Seagen
    Oct 2022 - Dec 2023 · 1 yr 3 mos

    Leading a VMT who coordinates and oversees the DP activities performed at the CMO. Ensuring continuous supply through regular exchange with the CMO, alignment of priorities and resolution of operational issues. • Facilitated the tactical day-to-day activities between the CMO and Seagen for a high potent Drug Product (Oral Solid Dosage) • Navigated the team successfully through conflict resolution internally and with partners ensuring uninterrupted supply • Managed complex contract and work order negotiations • Practiced a high degree of stakeholder communication to ensure the right information is available to various levels of the organization at the right time. • Secured additional resources at the CMO to prepare for important market launches

  • Process Expert Sterile Drug Product at Lonza
    Apr 2021 - Oct 2022 · 1 yr 7 mos

    Defined and implemented operational processes during the commissioning of a new manufacturing building and the sites first fill finish line (Vials; Liquid & Lyophilized). • Secured resource availability with suppliers and support functions while competing with vaccine manufacturers during peak COVID periods • Removed several roadblocks in a collaborative manner and with minimum noise to finally pass the Mediafill / APS and receiving the GMP manufacturing license • Able to win over supporters and decision-makers on several levels of the organization to meet key milestones • SME for the vial filling line, aseptic handling, utilities and the clean rooms