Key Hiring Trends in Pharma & Healthcare: Insights from DIA 2025

The pharmaceutical and healthcare industries are experiencing a transformation driven by the importance of sustainability practices. Following on from our recent attendance at DIA 2025, where industry leaders came together to discuss the several key areas of the life sciences, among these conversations, was talk of the substantial investments being made across eco-friendly innovations, processes in green chemistry, and the sustainability of supply chains, and how they will become a important core business strategy going forward.

We focused on one critical takeaway from these discussions, and that was that these sustainability-driven changes are set to completely reshape hiring needs throughout the wider ecosystem of life science. Organizations are adapting to meet new environmental goals, and with that are requiring specialized talent with expertise is healthcare and sustainability. Below, we discuss what hiring managers and candidates should expect with the continuation of this transformation:

Growth in Green R&D Sustainable Drug Development

Leaders in pharmaceuticals are interested in the prioritizing of carbon-neutral manufacturing, biodegradable APIs and AI-driven drug discovery. Focus on these will drive further demand for:

Green Chemists – To work to apply green chemistry principles and create a more ecologically friendly manufacturing process. Use their expertise in sustainable drug formulation and developing methods to synthesize sustainably, as well as to reduce the carbon footprint of products developed by the pharmaceutical industry.

AI & Machine Learning Specialists – To assist with the optimization of drug development pathways and reduce the consumption of resources and waste to maintain effectiveness. Specialists skilled in this area who use advanced algorithms will need to design a more efficient process for discovery, whilst maintaining minimal environmental impact. - If you need AI Specialists to support your initiatives, speak with either Richard Stevenson or Jay Robins.

Regulatory Affairs Experts – To navigate the compliance requirements needed to help companies meet the rising environmental and sustainability standards across the global market. Their expertise is required to ensure that products meet the right safety requirements. - For Specialist Regulatory Affairs talent, reach out to Holly Wallner or Gus Tosey.

If you are looking to build out a sustainable R&D team, Connect with Charlotte Hirst or James Measures.

Expansion of Cold Chain & Sustainable Logistics

With rising Biologics and tighter regulations, the investment in energy-efficient cold chains is growing, which in turn creates new demand for:

Supply Chain Sustainability Managers – Those who ensure a net-zero compliance throughout the lifecycle of a product from manufacturing to distribution. These professionals are required to implement strategies that measure and report the overall carbon emissions across supply networks and make recommendations to reduce them.

Cold Chain Engineers – Support temperature-controlled logistics by implementing solutions that can minimize environmental impact whilst keeping overall product integrity. The work aims to enhance the development of more energy-efficient technology and protect pharmaceutical products that are typically more sensitive to temperature changes.

ESG Data Analysts – Tracks carbon footprints and provides actionable data based on this to support companies in reducing the environmental impact they create. These specialists are skilled in the processing of complex metrics and breaking them down into clear reports that support organisational decision-making.

For support in sustainable logistics, reach out to Brytney Hylton for Medical Device Supply or to Charlotte Hirst for Pharmaceutical Supply expertise.

Advancements in Sustainable Healthcare Systems

Net-zero hospitals and circular healthcare models are leading to roles in:

Sustainable Procurement Specialists – The focus of products that are environmentally responsible for healthcare services. These specialists ensure ethical sourcing in supply chains by helping healthcare providers select suppliers that align with the goals of sustainability.

Healthcare Sustainability Consultants – Guide hospitals on the implementation of ‘green strategies’ which help optimize energy efficiency and waste reduction. Healthcare sustainability consultants work across various departments to implement these changes and create a detailed approach that reduces environmental impact while maintaining the same quality care.

Digital Health Specialists – Support clinical trial environmental impact with virtual approaches. Minimizing travel requirements and consumption of resources to continue the improvement of patient access.

Strengthening ESG Commitments & Partnerships

Pharmaceutical firms are expanding their ESG initiatives, which is increasing demand in:

ESG & Sustainability Officers - Head up the ‘green strategies’ of leading corporate organizations and ensure that these practices and implemented into the overall business operation. These officers will develop a detailed approach to help reduce environmental footprints.

CSR & Stakeholders Experts – Ensure compliance and partnerships with environmental organizations. Their work helps companies address these sustainability challenges and come up with eco-friendly collaborative solutions.

Life Science Communicators – Collaborate and educate with stakeholders on creating more sustainable initiatives. These specialists will help build trust with stakeholders who are more environmentally conscious.

What This Means for Hiring Managers & Candidates

In summary, DIA provided some valuable insights about the investments being made in sustainability practices. Candidates must look to upskill in crucial areas mentioned, such as ESG Regulations, AI-driven development and sustainable supply chains, if they wish to stay ahead, as well as be more environmentally conscious of these changes in better sustainability practices.

For hiring managers, seeking out talent that possesses knowledge in these growing areas is a forward-thinking approach. Hiring these candidates and utilizing early engagement along with targeted recruitment strategies will not only be beneficial but also essential going forward.

At Barrington James, we understand these new talent requirements needed from the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector, and keep these in mind when seeking your next hires. Our specialized recruiters use their extensive network of professionals with the skill sets needed to push your environmental initiatives going forward.

Whether you are looking for new green chemistry experts, sustainability-focused supply chain managers, or leaders within ESG. Considering getting in touch so we can connect you with the exceptional candidates you need to stay ahead in an evolving landscape

Ready to secure your talent for sustainability? Contact us on +44 (0) 1293 776644 so we can discuss your immediate hiring needs and strategies going forward.