For STADA to distribute medicines smoothly, efficiently, and most important of all safely and compliantly, prerequisite is to build, enable and maintain a secure, scalable and integrated IT system.

Francis Gorman, Head of Global Information Systems for UK at STADA, is one of the people within STADA Group that knows this to the fullest. Covering 3 STADA affiliates, that consist of 3 commercial locations, 2 manufacturing sites and 3 warehouses he highlights that he is a bridge between said affiliates and the broader STADA GIS network.

• My role centers on aligning local IT strategy with global transformation initiatives, particularly around SAP S/4HANA, cybersecurity and digital enablement, explains Francis, adding that he is in charge of ensuring that STADA’s systems, people and processes are ready to meet the demands of a modern, fast paced and integrated healthcare business.

At the cornerstone of this delivery model is partnership between Gorman’s team and STADA GIS Serbia.

• My collaboration with STADA GIS Serbia began in earnest during the early phases of my time at STADA and has deepened significantly over the past 2 years. From budget alignment to transformation workshops and operational leadership offsites, says Francis.

There are several fronts, explains Gorman, where cooperation between the two flourishes. To be precise there are 4. First there is S/4HANA Transformation, from UK adoption planning to Belgrade workshops and global alignment sessions. Second, cybersecurity including supplier onboarding and risk mitigation. Like Gorman said they work on budget governance also, collaborating on financial controls and budget adherence across UK affiliates. And the last and not the least he says they have joint presentations and strategy sessions to align GIS value delivery across countries,

Gorman highlights that cooperation flourished with S/4HANA transformation project

• A standout example is the UK’s involvement in the Horizon S/4HANA program. We’ve coordinated across borders to define workstreams, governance models, and change management strategies. The Belgrade workshop and subsequent UK kick-offs were pivotal in aligning local execution with global vision, says Francis.

Referring to this project Francis didn’t hesitate to praise the GIS Serbia team.

• They bring a rare blend of technical depth and pragmatic delivery. Their structured approach, responsiveness, and collaborative mindset have made them invaluable partners. They’re not just solution providers; they’re co-creators of success.,

When asked did he learn anything from this cross-country collaboration apart from the technical know-how and knowledge sharing that goes with it, Francis answered with a straight yes.

• I’ve learned the value of cultural diversity in problem-solving, the importance of clear communication across time zones, and the power of shared goals. It’s reinforced that transformation is as much about people as it is about platforms, explains Francis.

What about the future?
When talking about the future of technology and IT in healthcare, Francis is an utmost optimist.

• As digital transformation accelerates, STADA GIS will play a central role in embedding automation, analytics and AI into our operations. Their expertise will be critical in shaping a more agile, data-driven STADA, says and adds that he is excited to have the opportunity to co-create a truly integrated digital backbone for STADA.
• With STADA GIS as a key partner, the future is not just exciting, it’s executable, concludes Francis.