A Surprising Truth: CDMO Operations Should Be Boring
By J.D. Mowery, President, Bora CDMO Business
In an industry defined by innovation, speed, and scientific breakthroughs, “boring” doesn’t exactly sound like something to strive for. Drug development is exciting by nature, driven by novel technologies, new modalities, and bold ambitions to change patients’ lives. But after decades in this space (with an extensive focus on operations), I have come to a somewhat counterintuitive conclusion: when it comes to CDMO operations, boring is exactly what our clients should want.
The excitement belongs with our partners, their science, and the hope it gives patients. Their molecules are where innovation should flourish. In turn, the CDMO takes that innovation and manufactures it reliably, safely, and consistently. In manufacturing execution, it’s our goal to avoid surprises and to mitigate risk where necessary. The best operations are those that run smoothly, predictably, and with minimal stress.
None of this implies that CDMO operations should be stagnant — continuous improvement is still vital to strong service. We must constantly look for ways to improve efficiency, strengthen compliance, and enhance robustness. However, meaningful improvement should make operations more stable and predictable, not more experimental. Innovation in manufacturing should ultimately lead to fewer surprises for partners, not new ones.
Predictability benefits partners
From a client’s perspective, “boring” operations translate into trust — batches are produced as planned, timelines are met, and quality systems function as intended. Operational challenges become rare, and when they do occur, they are handled with discipline and transparency. Technology transfers follow established pathways instead of becoming chaotic experiments each time a new program arrives. Regulatory inspections are routine events rather than disruptive milestones. After all, regulators are ultimately our partners in the mission to get therapies to the patients who need them.
Clients experience the benefits of “boring” directly. They can spend less time managing uncertainty or chasing down key details and more time advancing their programs. Communication becomes proactive rather than reactive. Trust is built not through bold or flashy claims, but through steady, dependable delivery. Bora makes the promise of “reliably on time, consistently in full” because a drug’s journey from development to commercialization is complex enough. Doing what we say we will, when we say it, is table stakes.
Achieving consistency and reliability
As a CDMO, reaching this level of predictability does not happen by chance. It is the product of deliberate decisions and a relentless focus on repeatability. Repeatable processes form the backbone of manufacturing excellence. When procedures are well designed, clearly documented, and thoroughly understood, teams can execute them consistently across programs and sites globally. That consistency reduces risk, supports scalability, and ultimately accelerates progress for clients.
Designing for repeatability also requires discipline. It means standardizing equipment, workflows, and training wherever possible, rather than allowing unnecessary variation to creep in. It means building quality systems that are robust but practical and taking the time and effort to achieve thorough and effective tech transfer. Equally important is clarity for the teams doing the work. When expectations are well defined and processes are stable, teams are empowered to perform at a high level. They are not forced to compensate for inadequate systems or unclear decision-making. Instead, they can focus on executing reliably and addressing true challenges when they arise. Over time, this consistency builds a culture where quality and reliability are expectations, not aspirations.
Operational excellence is boring
At Bora Pharmaceuticals, we believe that operational excellence is best measured by how uneventful manufacturing feels to our partners. Our commitment to on-time, in-full delivery is not just a slogan; it’s a promise of predictability and security for our partners. When projects move forward without disruption, when quality is assumed rather than questioned, and when delivery is consistent, we know we are doing our job well. Our clients are taking on the exciting challenge of advancing science. Our role is to support them with operations that are deliberately, reliably, and confidently boring.
To hear more on this topic, watch J.D.’s full interview on the Making it in Manufacturing podcast here
J.D. Mowery has served as the president of Bora’s CDMO business since 2024. He brings nearly 25 years of leadership experience in the CDMO and biopharmaceutical industries, with a strong track record of driving innovation, growth, and operational excellence.