The pharmaceutical and life sciences sector has always been dynamic, marked by continuous advancements and breakthroughs. In 2024, the landscape of pharma recruitment is experiencing transformative shifts, influencing both candidates and clients. As the industry evolves, it becomes imperative for stakeholders to adapt to emerging trends.

Birn+Partners has its own IPT Industry Practice Team for Life Science, where consultants who have been active in the Life Science industry in the past are continuously developing approaches, collaborating across European countries, and building ever more effective processes and models helping our clients globally.

Although I've been doing direct search and recruitment for over 20 years, I studied pharmacy and biochemistry and initially thought of becoming a scientist.  I started my career in the pharmaceutical industry and biotech and loved that world. I even worked in laboratories for almost six years in total. Today, I'm also lucky to help our clients be more successful and find them the best and new talents.

Here are some thoughts on what recruitment in pharma and life science will be like this year. This article explores the key changes in pharma recruitment, what candidates should look out for, the evolving needs of clients, and the benefits of engaging with an executive search company.

Trends and changes in pharma & life science recruitments

Digital transformation and technology integration: The pharma & life science industry increasingly embraces digital technologies and automation. Candidates with expertise or understanding in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital health are in high demand. Employers seek professionals who can drive innovation and navigate the complexities of integrating technology into drug development, manufacturing, and distribution processes.

Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Pharma & life science companies prioritize diversity and inclusion initiatives. Candidates from diverse backgrounds bring varied perspectives, fostering innovation and better decision-making. Job seekers should align themselves with organizations that demonstrate a commitment to DEI, and companies should actively seek diverse talent to enhance their workforce.

Remote work and flexibility: The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work in the pharma & life science industry. Candidates with experience in remote collaboration tools and the ability to manage virtual teams are highly valued. Companies are reevaluating their policies to attract top talent by offering flexible work arrangements and focusing on employee well-being.

Regulatory compliance and talent with compliance expertise: Life science companies are navigating an evolving regulatory landscape. Candidates with strong regulatory compliance backgrounds are in high demand as companies seek to ensure adherence to global standards. Critical skills include a comprehensive understanding of regulatory frameworks and the ability to navigate complex compliance issues.

What candidates should be aware of

Continuous learning and adaptability: Candidates should prioritize continuous learning and stay updated on industry trends. The ability to adapt to evolving technologies and regulatory requirements will set candidates apart in the competitive pharma job market.

Global perspective: With the pharma industry being inherently global, candidates with an understanding of international markets and regulatory environments will be highly sought after. Multinational experience and the ability to collaborate across borders are valuable assets.

Soft skills and Emotional Intelligence: Beyond technical expertise, candidates with strong interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and leadership qualities will stand out. The ability to work collaboratively, lead diverse teams, and navigate complex organizational structures is crucial.

Evolving needs of pharma clients

Big pharmaceutical and biotech companies have large TA departments, but direct search expertise is also needed more often. Pharma and biotech companies are shifting from traditional recruitment methods to strategic talent acquisition partners outside. They seek partners who understand their specific needs and industry nuances and can efficiently provide a pipeline of qualified candidates.

The fast-paced nature of the industry requires quick and efficient recruitment processes. Clients are turning to us to executive search firms to streamline hiring, reduce time-to-fill, and secure top talent before competitors. Birn+Partners specializes in pharma recruitment and offers clients access to a broad network of industry-specific talent. This includes individuals with unique skill sets, experiences, and backgrounds that may not be easily found through conventional recruitment channels.

Why should companies engage with Birn+Partners

Birn+Partners bring industry-specific expertise and an in-depth understanding of the pharma and life sciences sector. This ensures that candidates presented to clients are qualified and align with the company's goals and culture. Our consultants have a long experience and a deep understanding of the life science sector.

The pharma and life science industry are global, and we have an extensive network across regions. This global reach allows us to source top talent from around the world, providing clients with a diverse pool of candidates.

Birn+Partners prioritize confidentiality and discretion throughout recruitment. This is particularly crucial in the competitive and sensitive landscape of the pharma industry, where companies often work on proprietary projects.

As the pharma recruitment landscape evolves in 2024, candidates and clients must stay attuned to emerging trends. Candidates should focus on developing a diverse skill set, staying adaptable, and showcasing soft skills. Clients should seek strategic partners, emphasizing efficiency, access to niche talent, and global reach. Engaging with an executive search company specializing in pharma recruitment provides a competitive edge, ensuring a seamless, confidential, and successful hiring process in the dynamic world of pharmaceuticals and life sciences. We do this work for clients - as trusted advisors.

Written by Mona-Maria Ilola, Managing Director in Finland, IPT Life science expert.