Orexo: Salem Tewolde, Head of Supply Chain, on solving real problems

News Release 

Salem shares her experiences of heading up the supply chain at Orexo, ensuring timely delivery of Zubsolv® and preparing to launch OX124. Furthermore, her passion for enabling sustainability.

Hi Salem, how would you describe your role as Head of Supply Chain?

I work with my team to make sure we have everything in place to maintain an uninterrupted supply of our commercial products to distribute. Right now, one of our primary focuses is on ensuring a sustainable supply chain for OX124, our high-dose rescue medication. A large part of my role is ensuring that the supply chain operates efficiently and effectively enabling the organization to meet its business goals.

Can you explain what setting up a sustainable supply chain involves?

We always start with a high-level plan. Map out all the stages of the supply chain, from raw material sourcing to manufacturing, distribution, and end-user delivery. It is complex and requires collaboration with multiple suppliers which all must pass through our Supplier Code of Conduct. As many sub-contractors may be found in many parts of the world, we need to make sure all direct suppliers have good governance and processes.

“  As many sub-contractors may be found in many parts of the world, we need to make sure all direct suppliers have good governance and processes.

What’s working at Orexo like?

I found Orexo through LinkedIn. I was drawn to the company because I could see that it solves real problems in the world and contributes to saving people’s lives. I’m really impressed with the innovative technologies and projects that we have here, especially for a small company. We have one goal and everyone’s hands on, there’s no sense of prestige or hierarchy, we’re just one team working together.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

Contributing to giving people hope and improving the quality of life for patients, aligns with my personal values. As a small company, we can make decisions quickly and adapt to changes with agility. I enjoy my cross-functional role since it involve coordinating with various departments to achieve common goals. Also, the culture is important to me. I enjoy the social side because it builds you as a team.

“ I enjoy my cross-functional role since it involve coordinating with various departments to achieve common goals. 

How do the next twelve months look for you?

Over the next year, my primary focus will remain on securing a resilient and sustainable supply chain for our commercial products — covering the entire process from planning through manufacturing and distribution. Additionally, I am excited to continue supporting our R&D team in developing reliable supply chains for our pipeline projects.