Outbound Supply Chain Risk Management in the Pharmaceutical Industry: Case Study
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School of Science |
Master's thesis
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en
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73
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Abstract
Global pharmaceutical supply chains face growing challenges from geopolitical and climate-related disruptions, underscoring the need for effective outbound risk management to maintain service levels and cost efficiency. The Case Company’s lack of such a process motivated this study, aimed at developing a practical risk management approach for their outbound operations and identifying current risks. The study’s theoretical foundation covers risk management concepts, the pharmaceutical supply chain, and related risks, providing a solid basis for the study. This study was conducted as a single case study using qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with specialists in the Case Company’s outbound supply chain operations. The qualitative data was analyzed through a systematic coding process to answer two research questions focused on the existing risks and the risk management process within the Case Company’s outbound supply chain. The findings indicate that the Case Company’s outbound supply chain is particularly vulnerable to several risks, primarily external ones. The unique characteristics of the pharmaceutical industry are evident in the identified risks. The findings also highlight the urgent need of a detailed risk management process tailored to the outbound logistics and planning teams, which could be further integrated into the Case Company’s broader risk management framework. Based on the findings, this study recommends a biannual risk management process for outbound logistics and planning, including risk identification, assessment, and mitigation steps. An FMEA table and risk matrix support systematic assessments, promoting early risk detection and mitigation to improve service levels and cost efficiency. This study offers practical recommendations to help the Case Company implement effective risk management. Key steps include fostering a supportive atmosphere from day one, adopting a standardized approach, keeping the process simple, and considering risk simulation for priority products. Together, these guidelines help Case Company to build a strong process and ensure consistent use of risk management practices.Description
Supervisor
Tanskanen, KariThesis advisor
Mehtäjärvi, JermuNiemi, Simo-Samuli