The invention related to a novel process, novel process steps and novel intermediates useful in the synthesis of pharmaceutically active compounds, especially renin inhibitors, such as Aliskiren. Inter alia, the invention relates to a process for the manufacture of a compound of the formula VI,
or a salt thereof, wherein R
1
, R
2
, R
3
and R′ are as defined in the specification, and processes of manufacturing this compound including intermediates.