In an industry as fast-moving and innovation-driven as Bio Pharma, impactful leadership makes all the difference. One leader who exemplifies that impact is Susan Costello, CEO of Rubix Consultancy Limited and Network Director of BioPharmaChem Skillnet. With a career spanning over two decades in learning and development, Susan’s work sits at the intersection of industry need, educational innovation, and inclusive workforce strategy.
At a time when Ireland’s life sciences sector is navigating rapid technological change, evolving compliance landscapes, and acute skills shortages, Susan has positioned BioPharmaChem Skillnet as a responsive, solutions-focused partner to industry. Her ability to connect stakeholders, anticipate emerging trends, and develop high-quality, relevant training has become a defining strength of the network she leads.
From Strategy to Impact
Susan’s leadership has played a central role in the delivery of over 41,000 training days to more than 11,000 individuals since 2020—figures that only scratch the surface of her wider influence. Her approach is grounded in strategy, research, and results. Under her guidance, BioPharmaChem Skillnet has:
- Collaborated closely with leading academic institutions to co-design practical, industry-aligned training solutions
- Partnered with the industry and other regulatory bodies to ensure programme content reflects current priorities
- Created learning opportunities that support both entry-level talent and existing professionals seeking progression
But it’s not just about numbers. Susan’s focus is on creating pathways—for individuals, companies, and the sector itself—to meet the demands of a globally competitive and increasingly complex environment.
Pioneering New Models of Learning
One of Susan’s most notable contributions is her leadership in developing future-ready training models. She along with TU Dublin has championed the use of Virtual Reality (VR) in learning for aseptic technique and chemical handling—an example of how digital transformation is not just something we talk about in pharma, but something we now experience in the training room.
Equally significant is her role in launching the world’s first university-accredited programme in Neurodiversity in the Workplace for the BioPharmaChem sector. Delivered in partnership with University College Cork, this Certificate in CPD supports managers and organisations in creating more inclusive, understanding, and productive environments for neurodivergent professionals.
Also, one of her upcoming work in the Pharma manufacturing sector along with Innopharma is the Specific Purpose Certificate in Essentials of biopharma manufacturing- Level 5 which which is designed for professionals who need certain qualifications to get promoted or transition into a different role.
These kinds of innovations speak to Susan’s broader ethos: that talent development is not one-size-fits-all, and that modern learning must meet people where they are—technologically, culturally, and personally.
Sector Voice and Collaborator
Beyond programme development, Susan is widely recognised for her collaborative approach. She works closely with HR, L&D, and operations leaders across the sector to identify pain points and co-create solutions that reflect both strategic and operational priorities.
Her contributions to national workforce policy are equally significant. Susan played a key role in the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) report, Skills for Biopharma, helping to shape a national framework for addressing current and future talent gaps.
Recognition on a National Stage
In 2025, Susan was named a finalist at two national awards:
- Women in Pharma Awards – Best Education Leadership
- Life Science Industry Awards – Women in Life Sciences
- Pharma Industry Awards– Women in Pharma Award (Small)
While she is modest about accolades, these nominations represent well-deserved recognition of her continued influence on Ireland’s life sciences ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
Susan’s leadership is about more than training—it’s about systems, culture, and readiness. She is constantly pushing forward, looking for ways to evolve the sector’s approach to workforce development, whether through digital innovation, inclusive design, or strategic collaboration.
As the BioPharmaChem sector continues to grow and adapt, leaders like Susan will be central to its long-term success. Through BioPharmaChem Skillnet and Rubix Consultancy, she is helping to ensure that Ireland remains not only a global leader in biopharma and chemical production—but also in how it develops, supports, and values its people.
To learn more about Susan’s work and BioPharmaChem Skillnet’s upcoming initiatives, get in touch at or explore our training programmes at bpcskillnet.ie
