In the pharmaceutical industry, acceleration of mega-mergers on both sides of the Atlantic releases significant numbers of professionals, both on European and national level, who will definitively be interested in start-up companies.

The medical devices and equipment sector is still in a growth phase. Companies are fiercely competing with each other for market share and market leadership, raising the recruitment standards for new hires. Dynamic start-up companies are looking for European professionals with broad skills and competencies. The reduction in healthcare expenditure, throughout Europe, puts pressure on manufacturers bur also favours new product development. Management skills necessary include the ability to adapt in this ever-changing environment.

Biotechnology start-ups have entered into an accelerated phase in Europe. This creates the need for new positions, both at management level and in technical areas. Entrepreneurs with hands-on experience, and risk-takers with the ability to raise venture capital are demanded.

E-commerce is developing and healthcare companies are acquiring and integrating new technologies and internet-based communication operations. New positions will be created, requiring IT skills. Managers must show creativity in making full benefit of these new technologies and incorporate them into the company’s strategic plans.

Candidate profiles

We see a recurrence in the type of competencies demanded by our client companies, large or small:
• adaptability • a sense of anticipation • the ability to manage change • strong leadership • communication skills • a result-oriented approach • a quality/customer service orientation.
Obviously, fluency in English is a must and a third European language a plus.

Compensation practices

Compensation practices in Europe increasingly favour a bonus system which varies from 10 to 30%, depending on the position. Stock options are becoming common practice for both start-up operations and large companies.