Dose #19: The Role of Contract Packaging in Pharma’s Future with Dexter Tjoa (Tjoapack)

In this episode of SCW for Pharma, host Evren Ozkaya welcomes Dexter Tjoa, CEO of Tjoapack, a global contract packaging organization with over three decades of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Dexter shares his journey into pharma, beginning as a supply chain consultant with a background in mathematics, and later transitioning into the packaging and supply chain domain. He also reflects on leading a family business founded in 1989 and its evolution into a global player with operations in both Europe and the United States.

The conversation explores Tjoapack’s strategic expansion into the U.S. market, highlighting the drivers behind establishing a presence there and the broader implications of recent U.S. government policies and investments in domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing. Dexter emphasizes that while reshoring production is a growing theme, pharma remains inherently global, and companies must maintain an international perspective to ensure resilience and efficiency.

Evren and Dexter then examine the role of contract packaging and manufacturing organizations in today’s pharmaceutical supply chains. Dexter explains how CPOs and CDMOs allow pharma companies to leverage specialized expertise, often in areas that are difficult to replicate in-house. Some focus on niche production, such as targeted medicines or unique packaging solutions for oral solids—an area where Tjoapack has built strong capabilities. Beyond their specialization, CPOs and CDMOs can also drive cost efficiencies, particularly when they invest in automation, Pharma 4.0 technologies, and lean practices that reduce expenses, enhance quality, and ensure compliance in GMP-regulated environments. Dexter notes that the increasing complexity of the industry—fueled by smaller batch sizes and the rise of targeted therapies—is reshaping production dynamics and amplifying the need for flexible, high-skill partners.

The discussion also addresses industry challenges, from labor shortages to the urgent need for flexible automation. Dexter highlights talent development as a top priority, sharing how Tjoapack redefined its training programs, improved transparency around career paths, and created a culture of meaningful work to attract and retain skilled employees. He stresses that automation alone is insufficient without investment in people, and that balancing both is critical for long-term success.

On the digital transformation front, Dexter underscores the importance of paperless quality solutions, intelligent automation, and transparent data sharing across the pharma supply chain. He argues that shop floor automation can significantly reduce costs while improving quality. At the same time, integration and collaboration with partners through timely, transparent data exchange are essential for building resilient supply chains. In his view, digital transformation is no longer optional but essential for survival in an increasingly competitive CPO/CDMO market.

The conversation concludes with reflections on leadership and personal advice. Dexter describes the evolving role of the CEO—from team-building and inspiration to digital leadership and execution—and offers guidance to younger generations entering pharma: embrace risk, stay open to learning, and move forward decisively even amid uncertainty.