Each month, Bellwyck Pharma Services will be shining a spotlight on some of our brightest experts in our Meet the Team Spotlight features.
This month, we’d like you to meet James Heisz – Bellwyck Pharma Services’ Director of Operations. James has only been a part of Bellwyck’s team for three months, but has been working in the pharmaceutical packaging industry for 14 years. James has also gained 8 years of experience in the Food and Beverage industry!
We sat down with James to discuss his experience in the pharmaceutical packaging field. Here’s what he had to say:
What does a typical day look like for you and what are you currently working on?
Every day has been different so far, as I am still learning so much about the business and the customers we serve.
Currently, I start my day with status updates and email, then hitting the floor to connect with the operators and trades. I like to understand the challenges and opportunities felt by the teams, so I spend a lot of time “going and seeing” to hopefully find some solutions, and to say thanks for the work well done! I try to focus on the immediate needs of the site, while strategizing about how we can change and improve our operation to do things more safely, with greater compliance, and faster!
Currently I’m working on plans for procuring new equipment for our facility expansion early in 2019, and preparing our serialization capabilities for the site, to start this process later this year.
What is your favourite part of the day?
When the weather is nice and I can enjoy lunch with peers outside, it is always fun and casual, and a nice break mid-day!
What do you like most about working in the pharmaceutical packaging industry?
I am on the commercial side of the business, so I enjoy seeing the raw materials converted into the finished goods that our customers need. I also enjoy it when my packaging team feels proud about having a good shift and meeting, or exceeding, a goal.
What do you find most challenging about working in the pharmaceutical packaging industry?
I have always heard that it is so difficult to change things within the pharmaceutical industry, due to the regulatory environment we work in. I see it as an opportunity to make smart decisions, and differentiate this business. Change can be managed effectively, processes improved, and it can really set your business apart from the competition.
What is the best advice you were ever given (work, life, success related)?
I have had many occasions throughout my career when I am reminded to reflect on the past, and to ensure that I understand the lessons to be learned, so I can create a better future (and not relive the same failures). On a daily level, this has morphed into one of my favorite sayings that “I’ve seen this movie before, and I know the ending.” I do try to take those lessons and experiences from the past, to try to drive a brighter tomorrow.
What is one of your favourite inspirational quotes?
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela
What is your favourite blog to follow to stay up to date on industry trends?
I follow Packaging Digest for the latest on equipment and trends, and Fierce Pharma gives a great overview of the industry as a whole, and changes within it.
Bellwyck Pharma Services would like to thank James Heisz for his hard work and dedication!
