Dr Richard Johnson is the founding director and chief scientific officer at UK-based CDMO, Upperton Pharma Solutions.
Graduating from the UK’s Warwick University with a PhD in Biochemistry, he became a protein chemist at Delta Biotechnology. In 1994 he was part of a management buy-out team that founded Andaris Ltd, researching spray drying technology in diagnostic imaging and drug delivery. In 1999, Dr Johnson founded Upperton and has overseen significant growth in spray drying and GMP manufacturing services.
In this rapid-fire interview, we find out what makes him tick…
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
I enjoyed life sciences from a young age so working in a laboratory in the Pharmaceutical Industry was a natural progression for me.
What was your first job?
After completing my Biology Degree at York University I worked as a Junior Microbiologist in a hospital laboratory for a year. I then undertook a PhD at Warwick University before starting my industrial Career as a Biochemisty at Delta Biotechnology in Nottingham in 1986.
What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date ?
Hard to pinpoint one but from a career perspective I would say founding Upperton Pharma Solutions from scratch and seeing it grow into what it is today is great to see.
Headcount of our staff doubled over the past year, so it has been great to welcome so many talented and passionate people into the Upperton business.
What are your aspirations for the future of your work? How would you define success?
I think the continued growth story of Upperton and to see it expand further into commercial manufacturing space is the future goal for our business and seeing a steady flow of new and existing customers into our newly built Trent Gateway site will determine our success.
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever been given?
My previous boss told me that I should have a go at founding my own business when I was ready to move on. That was the inspiration I needed and the confidence to go out and found my own business, Upperton.
How do you handle adversity ?
The key as a leader is to remain calm and look for a positive way forward.
When things aren’t working out most people will turn to the senior managers and look for reassurance, so that is the time to give it, no matter what you face!
How do you find suitable suppliers who can help accelerate your work?
Most of our suppliers have been with us for the duration of our business, we have been trading for 25 years, so once we find a good, reliable supplier we tend to stick with them.
How do you motivate yourself and your staff?
I think most of our staff are motivated by successful outcomes of our customer projects. If we make a scientific or technical breakthrough on a difficult programme our scientists are hugely motivated by that, as am I.
Finally, how do you relax?
I like going to the gym, watching sport and when I get the time, I do like to read historical books!
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