With our free networking sessions, you can air common challenges of working in our sector and learn from others’ experiences. You are welcome to attend!
What we offer
- Highly interactive sessions, in a safe environment to share issues, challenges and learning
- Peer to peer advice
- Tools and tips from expert facilitator(s)
Who should attend?
- IT professionals, business specialists, and management
- Participants from pharmaceutical and biotech organizations
Benefits
- Share challenges with peers facing similar implementation realities
- Exchange practical insights on governance, architecture, validation, and talent development
- Learn from real deployment experience rather than theoretical discussions
Logistics and Costs
- 1-hour virtual session
- Free of charge (booking required)
- 8 – 16 participants
Beyond Proof of Concept – Lessons from Implementing AI in a Mid-Sized Biopharma Company
October 14th, 2026, 4pm CET (European time) – online meeting
Over the past three years, AI has accelerated at a pace that challenges even the most adaptable organizations. As with previous waves of digital transformation, turning technological breakthroughs into secure, governed, high‑value business practices requires deliberate effort.
In this session, we share how a ±10‑person team successfully implemented 10 LLM‑based applications using a capability‑based architecture.
What began as RAG‑style query tools evolved into agent‑based systems capable of automating repetitive administrative tasks previously handled by highly trained staff.
Our deliverables included:
- A platform for hosting and operating AI applications
- A governance framework aligned with the EU AI Act
- A qualification & validation approach for non‑deterministic systems — an area where both local Quality teams and the ISPE are still gaining experience
This Phetairos session invites an open, practical discussion around the following questions:
- AI use cases — What types of applications genuinely benefit from AI components?
- Starting an AI project — How do we balance governance requirements with standard project execution?
- Validation experiences — How are others approaching qualification and validation of AI systems?
- Skills & talent — Which capabilities matter most, and how do we bridge the AI talent gap?
Moderator
Stefan Thys
Stefan has over 35 years of experience across a wide range of IT functions and more than 30 years in the pharmaceutical industry, primarily as a freelance consultant. In this role, he led the implementation of the 10 AI based applications highlighted in this session.
He is a seasoned consultant known for bridging the gap between business and IT, with deep expertise in both pharmaceutical and biotech environments:
• Strategic–technical alignment — Operates effectively at the intersection of strategic management and IT delivery.
• Translating strategy — Converts high level business requirements into practical, productive technical solutions.
• Leadership & collaboration — Team player, manager, and mentor with a strong sense of commitment and humor.
• Academic grounding — Combines hands on experience with a solid academic foundation.
He is a seasoned consultant known for bridging the gap between business and IT, with deep expertise in both pharmaceutical and biotech environments:
• Strategic–technical alignment — Operates effectively at the intersection of strategic management and IT delivery.
• Translating strategy — Converts high level business requirements into practical, productive technical solutions.
• Leadership & collaboration — Team player, manager, and mentor with a strong sense of commitment and humor.
• Academic grounding — Combines hands on experience with a solid academic foundation.