Recruitment in Life Sciences: challenges and insights from albedis

The life sciences industry is one of the most innovative and challenging industries worldwide. Research and development, highly regulated processes and global competition characterise this industry. For albedis, as a specialised recruitment company, the life sciences sector is more than just a market, it’s a top priority. Our goal: to connect companies with top talent, creating sustainable success for both clients and candidates. 

Recruitment challenges in life sciences 

Recruitment in the life sciences industry differs significantly from other industries. Here are some of the biggest challenges: 

1. Skilled labour shortage

There is a growing demand for qualified specialists such as clinical researchers, quality assurance managers and regulatory affairs experts. In a highly competitive market like Switzerland, companies face the challenge of finding and retaining the right talent. 

2. Regulatory requirements  

The high standards in the life sciences industry make recruitment complex. Companies not only demand specific qualifications and experience, but also compliance with strict guidelines, such as GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) or GxP (Good Practices). 

3. Long recruitment processes 

Due to the demanding requirements, recruitment processes often take longer than in other industries. Background checks, comprehensive reference checks and several rounds of interviews are the norm. 

4. Global and local dynamics 

Although the industry is global, the challenges vary by region. albedis has a particularly strong demand for specialised talent in Switzerland and neighbouring regions. 

albedis: Our recruitment approach in life sciences 

albedis has developed a practice in placing professionals and executives in the life sciences industry over the past few years. What sets us apart is our understanding of the specific needs of this highly regulated and dynamic industry. 

1. Building a niche expertise 
Our journey began in 2020 with a clear vision: to build a specialised Life Sciences division. What started as a one-woman show has grown into two specialised teams serving the industry leaders. We have positioned ourselves as a niche provider by offering tailored solutions and working closely with our clients to deliver high-quality results. 

2. Proactive talent acquisition 
Our success is based on proactively approaching talented individuals. Many specialists in the life sciences industry are not actively seeking a new job, which is why active sourcing is a central part of our work. We use targeted strategies to attract highly qualified candidates. 

3. Flexible employment models 
In addition to permanent placements, we also offer temporary staffing solutions. This flexibility enables companies to handle sudden increases in workload demands or to bring in specialised experts for projects. 

4. Quality Standards and Compliance 
Our clients audit us regularly to ensure that we meet the industry’s high standards. This means that we ensure the highest quality in every step of our process, from candidate selection to final placement. This is one of the reasons why Flexsis has successfully renewed and achieved annual certifications since the beginning of its operations. 

Corporate Social Responsibility: An integral part 

albedis recognises the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and our work is based on the principles of diversity, inclusion and sustainability. 

• Diversity and inclusion: We actively foster diversity in our teams and in the selection of talent for our clients. Different backgrounds and perspectives strengthen the innovative power and resilience of companies. 

• Sustainability: We are continuously improving our internal processes and providing customer solutions that have a long-term positive impact on the industry and society. 

What the future holds for life sciences recruitment 

As new technologies continue to be developed and sustainability becomes increasingly more important, companies in the life sciences industry are facing new challenges. albedis is committed to helping companies in this field to successfully navigate these changes, whether it be through innovative employment models, access to highly specialised talent or the development of tailored solutions. 

Our vision is to not only be a recruitment partner, but also a strategic consultant that guides companies and talented individuals in the life sciences industry into the future.