Quality

Quality

Even as the life sciences industry transforms at an unprecedented pace, quality issues drain up to 30% of pharmaceutical manufacturing costs. More than 300 drugs and medical devices were recalled in the last two years, highlighting the vital importance of strong Quality teams. A critical function in the manufacturing process, Quality ensures final products are consistent, safe, effective, and predictable. Entrust your Quality talent needs to EPM Scientific, the preferred talent partner of industry-leading companies and mover-and-shaker startups. We will source and deliver the best people for the job when you need them.

How we can help

Since 2012, we have sourced exceptional Quality professionals for clients around the world. Our expertise and efficiency in filling individual and team roles is bolstered by ongoing development and training, as well as investing in top-class technologies. In addition to finding sought-after talent for our clients, we help talented individuals find career-advancing opportunities. Whether you’re looking to fill a Quality role, or looking for your next career opportunity, EPM Scientific can help you.

Quality talent solutions

EPM Scientific takes the time-consuming hassle out of finding permanent, contract, and multi-hire Quality talent solutions aligned with your company’s requirements. Thanks to our global talent hubs, we can find the right people for Quality roles and place them quickly.

Our Quality talent solutions extend to an extensive network of interim managers and contractors who are ideal for long-term and time-critical functions and roles. We also offer retained and contingent services tailored to your company’s unique requirements.

We specialize in finding the best Quality talent, offer superior account management, and support our clients with value adding services such as interviewing tips, remuneration guidance, and bespoke analysis.

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Benefits of working with us

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Experience

We have over a decade’s worth of experience as a leading talent partner in Life Sciences & Pharma.

Network

A vast, global network of the best, in-demand professionals, working with the world’s largest Life Sciences institutions, to take drugs, devices and therapeutic applications through from conception to completion.

Knowledge

Our award-winning talent specialists offer bespoke, tailored guidance on the latest hiring trends and industry news to help you achieve your goals.

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Looking to hire?

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Quality Jobs

EPM Scientific continues to fill a wide range of Quality roles at life sciences companies in the US and around the world, including Quality Control Manager, Director of Quality, Head of Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs, and VP of Quality.

Sr. Manager, Quality Validation

Title: Sr. Manager, Validation Location: St. Louis, MO (Can provide relocation) A leading pharmaceutical company is seeking a validation expert to lead their site's validation program. The Senior Manager will be responsible for leading all aspects of validation (equipment, process, utilities, facilities, CSV) and support process improvements. Responsibilities: Develop proper validation training for relevant staff Ensure equipment and systems meet relevant guidelines and requirements Participate in compliance audits and respond to audit observations Support other groups' validation efforts and provide relevant validation resources Review, edit, and approve validation policies and sure proper implementation Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in relevant field with 15 years of validation experience in a pharmaceutical environment Previous hands-on experience with every aspect of validation, expertise with process validation preferred Experience leading and managing a validation team Must be authorized to work in the US without visa sponsorship If this sounds interesting, please don't hesitate to apply!

Negotiable
Missouri River Township
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Senior Manager Quality Engineer

Title: Senior Manager Quality Engineer Salary: $150,000-$180,000 Company Summary: The Senior Manager, Quality Engineering will oversee making sure that goods fulfill industry standards and the highest quality requirements, as well as any applicable laws and regulations. In addition to training the members of the Quality Engineering team and cultivating a compliance culture inside the organization, the Senior Manager is crucial in guaranteeing the efficacy, safety, and dependability of the company's product line. As this is a hybrid role, applicants must live close enough to our Carlsbad location to commute. The Senior Manager Quality Engineer will be responsible for: * Oversees the work of a group of competent engineers and technicians, offering them direction, instruction, and assistance to guarantee their performance and professional growth. * Supervises protocol and report development as well as testing and validation procedures as needed to guarantee adherence to quality standards. * Oversees management of the sterilization program which includes validations and monitoring environmental controls * Uses of the proper statistical techniques, including data collection and summarization, confident conclusion-making, sample size determination, application of statistical process controls (SPC), relationship-finding, and statistical decision-making. * Creates and verifies test procedures while utilizing metrology techniques for calibration systems, traceability, measurement error, and device and standard control. Performs measurement system error investigations, such as Gage R&R The Senior Manager Quality Engineer should have the following qualifications: * Minimum of 10 years' experience in quality engineering for medical devices * Five years or more of experience in direct employee management * Comprehensive knowledge of industry standards, regulatory regulations, and quality management systems that are unique to the medical device sector, including a working familiarity with ISO 14971:2019, ISO 13485:2016, and 21 CFR 820. * Significant experience in statistical data analysis and root cause analysis * Sterilization and packaging validation experience Benefits: * Medical Insurance * Dental Insurance * Vision Insurance * Employer-Paid Basic Life Insurance * Supplemental Life Insurance * Employer-Paid Short-Term Disability * Long-Term Disability * 401(k) Plan * Paid Time Off If you are interested in the Senior Manager Quality Engineer role, then please don't wait to apply. If you have any questions feel free to reach me at [email protected].

US$150000 - US$150001 per year
California
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Engineering Specialist

Overview: An established Medical Device company focused on Class 2 & 3 devices is looking to add an Engineer with a Quality and Manufacturing background to serve as a multi-site engineering specialist. With lofty growth projections and an already dominant market share, the ideal candidate must have experience leading continuous improvement projects through the use of lean engineering methodologies. Essential Duties: Continuously enhance product quality and services by aligning QMS processes with evolving business needs and creating new procedures. Ensure project sustainability. Lead and direct cross-functional teams in Lean and continuous improvement efforts. Supervise Six Sigma training, perform audits, and support digital transformation initiatives. Act as a technical advisor, address complex challenges, and mentor junior engineers. Work closely with key stakeholders, manage risks effectively, and maintain compliance across all functions. Minimum Qualification Requirements: Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Management, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent education and experience sufficient to perform the job's essential functions. Experience: At least 8 years of experience in business operations, plant manufacturing, or engineering, including 3 years of demonstrated success in process improvement programs. At least 2 years of GMP manufacturing experience is required. Knowledge of FDA regulatory and ISO requirements and trends affecting medical devices and drug combination products is preferred. Black Belt LEAN/Six Sigma certification is required or must be obtained within the first year. Proficiency in Microsoft Teams, Excel, PowerPoint, Minitab (required), and Power BI (preferred). Benefits Offered: Medical Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Employer-Paid Basic Life Insurance Supplemental Life Insurance Employer-Paid Short-Term Disability Long-Term Disability 401(k) Plan Paid Time Off Paid Holidays

US$120000 - US$160000 per year
Denver
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Quality Manager

Quality Manager In this leadership role, you'll also manage a team of technicians, ensuring they have the resources and training to succeed. Responsibilities Lead the implementation of new customer processes, from development to production. Manage projects effectively, utilizing strong organizational skills and resource allocation. Develop and maintain process validation documents, ensuring compliance with regulations. Design and develop testing methodologies for new and existing processes. Analyze workflow, processes, equipment, and tooling to identify areas for improvement. Collect and analyze data to identify trends and track key performance indicators (KPIs). Support production activities, including setup, configuration, and certification. Evaluate production feasibility and provide resource assessments for cost models. Collaborate with customers and regulatory personnel on quality and design matters. Attend meetings to discuss quality issues and implement solutions. Recommend improvements to development and design processes. Oversee departmental compliance with company quality policies, ISO standards, and other regulations. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering (preferred). 3+ years of experience in a leadership role. 5+ years of hands-on experience in a medical device manufacturing environment (required). Experience working in a regulated environment (required). Collaborative mindset and a team-oriented approach. Familiarity with LEAN principles (a plus). Desired Skills Strong personnel management skills. Excellent proficiency in spreadsheets (Excel) and MS Word. Working knowledge of ISO standards.

Up to US$110000 per annum
Bedford
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APAC RAQA Manager

Our client is a global diagnostics company and is currently on the lookout for an APAC RAQA (Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance) Manager to join their team based in Singapore. This permanent position offers a unique opportunity to steer regulatory strategies across Asia-Pacific markets while ensuring top-notch quality assurance practices. Key Responsibilities: Lead communication with various regional regulatory authorities. Oversee implementation and maintenance of robust QMS frameworks. Lead regulatory strategies for local submissions and registration, QMS setup/maintenance and Post Market compliance Work with cross functional teams internally for regulatory and QMS assessments. Drive compliance with diagnostic industry standards throughout APAC territories. Essential Skills Required: Bachelor's degree At least 5 years of experience in RA in medical device/IVD industry Extensive experience managing Quality Management Systems Good communication, organisation and negotiation skills If you are interested, please apply with your CV attached.

Negotiable
Singapore
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Pharmaceutical Development Engineer

My client is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development of advanced therapies for neurological disorders, emphasizing neuroprotection and neurorehabilitation. They are currently looking for a Pharmaceutical Development Engineer to be the Subject Matter Expert (SME) to focused on enhancing manufacting processes and QC analytical methods. Responsibilities: CMC Support: Analyze and present data on chemistry, manufacturing control, and biological testing. Source and manage external CROs, vendors, and laboratories for product testing and process validation. QC Support: Oversee batch releases and ensure compliance with specifications. Update manufacturing records for GMP compliance and monitor production to ensure adherence to requirements. Technical Support: Provide technical assistance for clinical and non-clinical activities, patent filings, and CMC dossier preparation for regulatory discussions. Quality Investigations: Investigate deviations, resolve quality issues, and collaborate with QA on customer complaints. Develop and maintain relevant SOPs. Qualifications: Bachelor in a relevant field, with strong knowledge in analytical methods and cGMP. Proficiency in Chinese/Mandarin is essential, and experience with CMOs or CDMOs is preferred. Experience in Quality Control Batch Release preferred Must be able to manage multiple projects, think critically, and travel as needed. If you are interested, please apply with your CV attached.

Negotiable
Singapore
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Sr. QA Supervisor

QA Supervisor This company is a pioneer in the cGMP production sector and is committed to developing gene therapy. Their goal is to create novel, secure, and efficient long-term treatments for illnesses by utilizing their expertise, resources, technology, and knowledge in the fields of translational and regulatory science. As they work to make a difference with every product and instill hope in the hearts of every patient and their family, there is no condition too uncommon or difficulty too great. The main idea of this biotech company is the full-service production of Adeno Associated Viruses (AAV). Every year, they collaborate with more than 100 clients to produce AAV at levels of development, toxicological, clinical, and Qualifications: Working knowledge of team function within the organization Excellent detailed knowledge of cGMP, GLP, FDA guidelines Excellent communication, organization, and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects efficiently and adjust as priorities change Must be highly skilled in Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word) including data interpretation and reporting Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a diverse and inclusive work environment Must possess a client-focused mindset in daily tasks Responsibilities The QA Operations Supervisor role is responsible for supporting internal Quality Assurance functions focused on GMP manufacturing operations and associated Quality systems, including change controls and internal process verification The supervisor will work collaboratively with the training team to ensure manufacturing colleagues are operating in compliance with Quality systems Execute Quality systems to support CDMO manufacturing and lot release, GxP auditing, and training Provides quality support for external and internal AAV and Plasmid manufacturing and clinical product distribution Review and audit complex documents: batch records, GMP protocols, and process and method validations Fully support the Product Disposition of client AAV and Plasmid lots for release Review and approve master and executed batch records Observe manufacturing activities to support the implementation of best practices and improvements Administer, review, follow-up, and approve internal/external Deviations, Change Records, and Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPAs) Manage the DMS by authoring, reviewing, and approving Policies, SOPs, and WINs as needed Communicate quality metrics, client production tracking and metrics, and quality improvement initiatives to senior leadership Provide oversight and input to Trend Review Reporting and Lifecycle Review activities to identify and address process shifts and trends Act as QA SME during client and regulatory audits Schedule QA-on-the-floor responsibilities for the QA Operations team in support of manufacturing activities Ensures that documentation is maintained in accordance with internal procedures and regulatory requirements Supports and maintains an environment that fosters communication and teamwork within Quality Assurance and related departments Exercise discretion, judgment, and personal responsibility Benefits The opportunity to work alongside experts who have over 10 years in the gene therapy field Competitive compensation Eligible on day one for medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with basic vision at 100% company-paid 160 hours of Paid Time Off annually 11 Company Paid Holidays plus 2 floating holidays annually Company Paid Life Insurance 401(k) Match Company Paid short and long-term disability 4 weeks of Paid Parental Leave for birth and adoption Adoption Assistance Tuition Reimbursement and Student Loan Repayment Assistance Company Paid LinkedIn Learning access Employee Assistance Programs Flexible work options (role specific)

US$105000 - US$120000 per year
San Francisco
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Global Quality Consultant

We are seeking a highly independent and experienced Global Specialist with a strong background in compliance within cell therapy and biopharmaceuticals. This role will focus on ensuring compliance across enterprise-level QMS, with particular emphasis on supporting system updates and enabling functions. Key Responsibilities: Ensure compliance in cell therapy within enterprise-level QMS, particularly focusing on system updates and enabling functions Provide expert guidance on managing complaints, deviations, and change controls with an enabling approach, rather than direct operational involvement Support global launches of cell therapy products, with particular emphasis on emerging markets in Asia Lead and manage audits to ensure compliance in cell therapy, with a specific focus on raw materials and vector usage Stay updated on global regulatory requirements and ensure that all cell therapy operations adhere to these standards Requirements: Extensive experience in cell therapy and biopharmaceutical compliance Proven capability to operate independently and lead compliance functions in a global environment Experience with launches of cell therapy products Proficient in English; additional languages are a plus Experience with Veeva Systems and Salesforce is required *Remote position* For further information about this position, please apply with your CV *Please note, only those with the right to work in Switzerland can apply!

Negotiable
Switzerland
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Sr. Director Quality Systems and Audits

This biopharmaceutical firm is steadfastly dedicated to producing top-notch treatments for people with compromised immune systems who are susceptible to infections. Our passion for this neglected community is what drives us, and what makes us unique is our hands-on approach to development and production. Take this company into consideration if you're searching for a biopharmaceutical company that is growing, innovative, and dedicated to excellence and integrity. They are currently in need of a Senior Director, Quality Systems and Audits available in Boca Raton, FL! Leading the department to ensure that compliant Quality Management Systems and internal and external auditing programs are established and maintained in compliance with applicable company and US/international regulatory requirements, standards, guidance, and procedures for the development of drugs and biologics is the responsibility of the Senior Director, Quality Systems and Audits position. Control, lead, supervise, and constantly enhance Quality Management Systems, encompassing Change Controls, CAPAs, Deviations, and Internal and External Audits. oversees the management of major operations and quality initiatives at the Boca facility, as well as projects pertaining to FDA inspectional reactions. Quality improvement and root cause analysis in relation to regulatory inspections, internal audits, third-party audits, OOS investigations, deviations, and CAPAs, when necessary, are additional crucial responsibilities. Qualifications: Outstanding communication skills both in writing and speaking Proven capacity for methodical and critical thought Skilled in risk assessment and root cause analysis tools; Capable of implementing compliant, streamlined processes using LSS tools and methodology to ensure enhanced compliance to cGMPs and changing FDA expectations; Capable of managing budget and resources and overseeing a department. A minimum of five years as a team/department leader with demonstrated success in coaching, mentoring, and enhancing the overall performance of the team as measured by standard metrics; a bachelor's degree in science or a related technical field; A minimum of fifteen years of experience in the biologics pharmaceutical industry (CBER Regulated) Five to ten years of experience in quality management are also required. Benefits: In addition to competitive compensation, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including: 401K plan with employer match and immediate vesting Medical, Vision, Life and Dental Insurance Pet Insurance Company paid STD and LTD Company Paid Holidays 3 Weeks' Paid Time Off (within the first year) Tuition Assistance (after the first year) Easily accessible to Tri-Rail Free shuttle to the Boca Tri-Rail station

US$200000 - US$220000 per year
Florida
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Chemist Environmental

We are seeking an experienced Environmental Chemist to join our team in Visp on a part-time, temporary basis. You will advise stakeholders on environmental and sustainability issues, conduct on-site inspections, lead environmental training, and support incident investigations. Key Responsibilities: Advise on wastewater and waste disposal. Review and improve disposal concepts. Develop strategies to minimize pollutant discharge. Inform about environmental regulations and updates. Support production processes with environmental protection focus. Represent interests before cantonal authorities. Participate in risk assessments and audits. Provide environmental on-call services and handle incidents. Prepare environmental reports and maintain Envizi database. Qualifications: MSc in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Sciences, or Chemistry. Fluency in German and/or English. Minimum 5 years of relevant experience, preferably in the chemical or pharmaceutical industry. Strong interpersonal skills and a positive attitude.

Negotiable
Schweizer-Reneke
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APAC RAQA Manager

Our client is a global diagnostics company and is currently on the lookout for an APAC RAQA (Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance) Manager to join their team based in Singapore. This permanent position offers a unique opportunity to steer regulatory strategies across Asia-Pacific markets while ensuring top-notch quality assurance practices. Key Responsibilities: Lead communication with various regional regulatory authorities. Oversee implementation and maintenance of robust QMS frameworks. Lead regulatory strategies for local submissions and registration, QMS setup/maintenance and Post Market compliance Work with cross functional teams internally for regulatory and QMS assessments. Drive compliance with diagnostic industry standards throughout APAC territories. Essential Skills Required: Bachelor's degree At least 5 years of experience in RA in medical device/IVD industry Extensive experience managing Quality Management Systems Good communication, organisation and negotiation skills If you are interested, please apply with your CV attached.

Negotiable
Singapore
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Non- Active Medical Device Auditor

My client, a leading notified body, specializes in the certification and compliance of medical devices. They work closely with manufacturers to ensure that their products meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy, maintaining rigorous regulatory oversight to protect public health. Job Description My client is seeking an experienced Medical Device Auditor to join their team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Quality Management Systems (QMS), sterilization processes, and non-active medical devices, including cardiology implants, ophthalmic devices, and animal tissue-based products. Key Responsibilities Conduct Audits: Perform audits of medical device manufacturers' QMS to ensure compliance with relevant standards and regulations (e.g., ISO 13485, MDR). Evaluate Technical Documentation: Review technical files and risk management processes related to non-active medical devices, with a focus on cardiology implants, ophthalmic devices, and animal tissue products. Assess Sterilization Processes: Evaluate the effectiveness and validation of sterilization processes, including steam, ethylene oxide (EtO), and other sterilization methods. Prepare Reports: Document findings, identify non-conformities, and prepare detailed audit reports. Client Interaction: Communicate effectively with clients, providing guidance and support on regulatory requirements and best practices. Continuous Improvement: Participate in internal training and contribute to the continuous improvement of auditing processes and methodologies. Qualifications Educational Background: Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Life Sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees are a plus. Experience: Minimum of 4 years of experience in Quality Management Systems auditing, with specific expertise in sterilization and non-active medical devices. Certifications: Certified Lead Auditor (e.g., ISO 13485) preferred.

Negotiable
United States of America
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Quality News & Insights

Life Sciences Salary Guides of 2023 Image
biometrics

Life Sciences Salary Guides of 2023

Are you aiming to advance your career within the life sciences sector? Are you interested in discovering your competitors‘ offerings for professionals in your field across the APAC region? We are excited to present our new series of Salary Guides for the life sciences industry. These comprehensive reports will furnish you with invaluable insights into the present salary trends in Singapore, China, Australia, South Korea, and Japan.Compiled from the responses of almost 900 life sciences professionals in the APAC region, this is an opportunity you shouldn't overlook. Seize the chance to gain a competitive advantage in the life sciences field, enabling you to make well-informed choices about your career trajectory, compensation, and hiring approaches.

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The Life Sciences Skills Gap: How to Hire Image
management advice

The Life Sciences Skills Gap: How to Hire

​The life sciences industry is rapidly growing, but it is experiencing skills gaps that need to be addressed to allow it to reach its full potential. According to a 2022 life sciences and pharma talent trends report, 33% of C-suite and human capital leaders in the life sciences and pharmaceuticals sector agree that talent scarcity is a major pain point. This problem is widespread, with the UK also suffering a skills shortage that threatens to stall the industry’s trajectory.Skills gaps in digital and computational skills, and industrial, economic, and clinical research are particularly large. However, if phenotypic, genomic, and patient data integration practices can be optimized across the industry, this will support both research and treatment advances in the future.This article shares effective hiring strategies that can help life sciences organizations address skill gaps within their teams and wider business.Understanding the skills gaps in the life sciences industryStatistics from the talent trends report highlight the key skills gaps in the life sciences industry and how they impact key research and development processes. Demand for life sciences products is forecast to grow more rapidly than the global GDP over the coming years, and 45% of the aforementioned talent leaders note that they are looking to hire primarily to avoid talent scarcity from hindering their organizations’ progress. Moreover, the report found that 67% of pharmaceutical and life sciences companies believe that reskilling their current employees is an efficient way to address and mitigate skills gaps. It currently takes 105 days on average to fill a non-executive life sciences position in the US, leading to financial losses of $500 per open role per day, so intentional talent strategies are crucial to setting life sciences businesses on the path to success.Supporting mobility between sectorsSupporting mobility between sectors plays a vital role in closing the skills gaps within the life sciences industry. Enabling professionals to transition across sectors, ranging from Regulatory and Legal Services to Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Engineering, allows life sciences companies to tap into a vast pool of talent. This is also an effective method of sharing intersectional knowledge and developing key skills.Selecting candidates with a diverse range of backgrounds for open roles may also bring more unique perspectives into your organization, thereby driving innovation and helping to meet growing demand. Focus on transferable skillsFocusing on transferable skills is a powerful approach to bridging the skills gap in the life sciences industry. Rather than solely emphasizing sector-specific experience, prioritizing transferable skills enables professionals to adapt and thrive in new roles within the field. The life sciences industry’s talent offers a myriad of transferable skills that can be used to power future growth and innovation. These include analytical skills, leadership and teamwork skills, problem solving, written and oral communication skills, management skills, and scientific peer communication. Additional soft skills to focus on in your talent acquisition strategy include critical thinking, problem solving, and attention to detail.Consider cultural fitSeek out candidates from other industries who align with your organization’s culture, values, and core mission. This alignment promotes employee engagement, retention, and overall job satisfaction, whilst creating a supportive working environment that benefits from a wide range of experiences and perspectives.These candidates should also possess the aforementioned transferable skills, which will help to ensure that they can perform optimally in their new roles without being hindered by common skills gaps.Offer more flexibilityWhile not a priority for all candidates, flexible working arrangements such as remote or hybrid work arrangements are valuable to skilled candidates and may help to give your organization an advantage in the ongoing competition for life sciences talent.Hire top talent with EPM ScientificEPM Scientific is a leading specialist life sciences talent partner, providing you with a wealth of expertise to help you locate the best talent for your life sciences roles globally. Submit a vacancy or request a call back from our team to find the right people to drive your organization forwards.

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How to Ensure Employee Retention in Life Sciences Image
safety-pharmacovigilance

How to Ensure Employee Retention in Life Sciences

​The Pharmaceutical market has expanded considerably in the past two decades, with Pharma revenues totalling $1.42tn in 2021. This has been accompanied by a growing demand for experienced, highly qualified Life Sciences professionals: with more drugs than ever now available, companies require a strong workforce to bring their products to market. The industry has had to deal with an ever-small talent pool as a result, which has been exacerbated by one of the highest employee churn rates, with the Life Sciences and Medical Devices industry alone seeing a 20.6% turnover rate. This is reflected in the results of our Life Sciences survey which revealed that more than 40% of Life Sciences professionals are currently looking for a new role.The COVID-19 pandemic led to a substantial increase in resignations across all industries, as many employees started to re-evaluate their priorities and seek roles that offered flexible remote-work policies. Consequently, companies have found it harder to get the people they need. 47.8 million workers in the U.S. decided to quit their jobs in 2021 – the highest volume of resignations since the Bureau of Labor Statistics began recording this data in 2001. This is equivalent to 3.98 million workers quitting their jobs each month, up from an average of roughly 3m leaving their jobs each month in 2019.Similar trends have been observed in Australia and the UK, where the rate of employed people between 16-64 choosing to switch jobs reached an all-time high of 3.2% between October-December 2021. The resignation rate continued to increase in 2022, with job-to-job resignations in the UK peaking at 442,000 in the second quarter of 2022. In Europe, one in three workers are considering quitting their jobs in the near term, with inadequate compensation and lack of career advancement being cited as the top factors.Why are Life Sciences professionals leaving their roles?The reasons that Life Sciences professionals have for wanting to leave their jobs vary across each industry sector. However, the promise of higher remuneration is invariably the main reason. This is according to findings from our Year in Review, which goes into greater depth about the factors that matter most to Life Sciences professionals when seeking to advance their careers.There are a host of other important factors, however, such as the desire for an improved work-life balance and employees wanting to acquire more new skills that will aid in their professional development. Changes in management can also cause people to want to move jobs, and Life Sciences professionals are increasingly looking for openings that provide flexible working hours and the ability to work from home.How to improve employee retentionThe good news is that there is a wide range of employee retention strategies that you can adopt in your workplace. Let’s take a look at some of the most effective employee retention techniques that you can use to ensure that your employees are satisfied at work and remain highly motivated in their positions, as opposed to looking elsewhere for their big career break.Offer competitive salaries and benefitsDissatisfaction around salary has had a negative impact on talent retention in the Life Sciences sector. As we’ve seen across the board, wanting higher compensation is the top reason for employees wanting to move to jobs; 70% of the R&D professionals that we surveyed within the Pharmacological industry were motivated by the promise of higher compensation at other companies.Paying your team a competitive rate is a simple but effective employee retention strategy that you can use to avoid your workforce shrinking. Our survey results show that the majority of respondents want a pay rise upwards of 10-15% of their current salary, which provides some indication of how much you may need to offer in order to remain competitive. Focus on career developmentYour employees will be far less likely to want to continue working for you long-term if there are few opportunities for advancement – or if their ability to develop their skills is limited. A study by Work Institute found that employees quit in 20% of cases due to career development issues.This highlights the importance of setting clear paths for career progression to give your team the motivation and provide them with long-term goals.Be flexibleOffering flexible working arrangements is a sure-fire way to keep your employees happy. Our Year in Review revealed that the option to work from home is very important to 60% of the industry as a whole. The majority of R&D respondents deemed flexibility as either important or very important, and workers in Pharmacovigilance ranked flexibility higher than salary when asked what is most important when considering a new job.Whilst a lack of flexible working options will not be a deal-breaker for many employees, you will find it far easier to retain your top talent if you grant them greater freedom to work according to their preferences.Build a supportive company cultureThere’s nothing quite like a warm, friendly culture when it comes to getting excellent work out of your employees. It’s also one of the best ways to increase their loyalty to the company.Seeking feedback from employees on a regular basis about how working processes might be improved helps ensure that workers feel that their concerns are being heard and addressed. Providing senior employees with the skills and training that they need to be good managers is also a worthwhile endeavour. Manufacturing professionals regard good leadership as almost as important as salary, according to our Year in Review survey.Promote work-life balanceMore than a third of respondents in our Life Sciences Year in Review report highlighted a poor work-life balance as one of the main reasons for wanting to seek employment in another role. Almost half of the Clinical Pharmacology professionals surveyed cited a need for an improved work-life balance as their main reason for seeking a new position.With higher numbers of professionals re-evaluating their priorities in life in the wake of the COVID pandemic, it’s no wonder that Life Sciences professionals are seeking out positions that allow them to spend more time with their families and friends. Giving your employees more personal time is therefore one of the most effective strategies for employee retention.Offer innovative, up-to-date technologiesFinally, ensure that you have the latest technology in your workplace. Investing in top-of-the-range software, for example, will make it easier for your employees to complete tasks and reduce the errors that are made, thereby increasing company productivity and boosting morale.Employee retention is critical to successThriving companies are characterized by a happy, satisfied workforce and high employee retention rates. Partner with EPM Scientific, a leading executive search firm for the Life Sciences industry, to find out more about how you can implement employee retention strategies that get results. Request a call back and one of our specialist consultants will be in touch. ​

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How to Determine if a New Hire Will Fit into Your Company's Culture Image
Management & Culture

How to Determine if a New Hire Will Fit into Your Company's Culture

There’s no question that a company’s culture and ethos can help its employees feel more satisfied at work, increase employee retention and ultimately serve as a catalyst for its success. Company culture is seen as very important by professionals: survey data collected by Glassdoor shows that more than three quarters of professionals take the culture into account before applying for a job, and 56% say that they see the culture of a company as playing a more significant role than salary in determining overall job satisfaction. Given the role that it plays, cultural fit should be a key priority for employers.Why is cultural fit important?If somebody is a good cultural fit for a company, they are far more likely to be an engaged, motivated employee who derives satisfaction from their role. There is a greater chance that they will see the job as more than just a source of income and as such, they will be more likely to go above and beyond in the workplace and may even inspire others to follow in their footsteps.Hiring for cultural fit therefore makes good business sense. 10-25% of new employees decide to leave within six months of starting work, and one reason that professionals give for quitting is that they feel that they are a poor fit for the company culture. Choosing people for the job who are a natural fit for the company’s values and working practices is a great way to avoid these problems from arising.How to hire for cultural fit?Given the importance of company culture, businesses are increasingly hiring for cultural fit. This involves defining what your culture is all about and incorporating questions at interview stage that relate to your interviewees’ values, motivations and aspirations.Define your company’s cultureThe first step is to describe your company’s culture in writing. What are the values, beliefs and ethics that characterize your company’s operations and working environment? If you are struggling to capture the essence of your culture, it might be worth asking current employees about how they feel about the company and its working practices. It is recommended that you use such feedback when writing or updating a mission statement and articulating your company values. Include these on your website and on all your digital platforms, in addition to testimonials from your current employees.Demonstrate your values throughout the interview processAsking values-based interview questions is one of the best ways to identify candidates who share your values and will be a good fit in the workplace.You should also draw attention to the benefits that you offer your employees. 56% of CFOs in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) have said that they are considering expanding benefits, including flexible working arrangements (FWAs), in a bid to retain their top talent. If you offer flexible working roles, ensure that your staff relay this information at interview stage.Cover the right questionsIf you’re wondering how to determine if a candidate is a good fit, asking the following questions will help shed light on the personality of your interviewees and their alignment with your values:What motivates you? How do you handle conflict in the workplace?What work environment supports innovation and productivity levels? Give me an example of something that you have taught yourself in the last six monthsWhat experiences have shaped your outlook on life?What are you most proud of?Utilize personality testsPersonality tests provide valuable insights into how prospective employees approach problems. They can also shed light on their ability to work alongside others and offer further information about their interests and preferences.Some of the most common personality tests used by employers include the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Caliper Profile and the 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire.Other key considerationsWhilst cultural fit is of great importance, it should be weighed alongside other factors. Hiring solely for cultural fit can perpetuate bias and lead to a lack of diversity within the workplace as a result. It’s also important to take into consideration an applicant’s qualifications, work experience, career aspirations and skill set when assessing their suitability for a role in your organization.Secure Life Sciences Talent with EPM ScientificAre you looking to solve your talent challenges? EPM Scientific offers bespoke talent solutions across Life Sciences A combination of our specialist account management service, ongoing support and reporting, and hiring advice allows us to find you exactly the people you need, when you need them. Register your vacancy or request a call back today.Our Talent Expertise​​​

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Benefits of Life Sciences Contract Work Image
Pharmacology

Benefits of Life Sciences Contract Work

According to Statista, 86.5 million people in the United States alone will be freelancing by 2027, which is more than half of the country’s workforce – and this is a trend that’s not limited to the US. In Europe, it’s estimated that there are already 32.3 million freelancers making up 15% of the total labor market.If you’re in the Life Sciences sector, you can enjoy the benefits of contract work. The big question is, would a contract job be the right choice for you? This is an important question especially if you’ve built your career in permanent roles. Consider the benefits of being a contract employee and weigh them up against your own priorities to be better able to make an informed decision.The benefit of higher payHigher pay is one of the benefits of contract work. There’s a misconception that Life Sciences contractors do not earn as much as those in permanent roles, but the reality is that most Life Science companies are often willing to pay contract workers more money.  One of the reasons for this is that those companies do not have to cover health benefits, social security taxes, 401K (retirement) contributions, unemployment compensation, or Medicare for contract workers. They also understand that they need to compensate for the lack of company benefits and a steady income, especially if those contractors have a high level of expertise in their field.Freedom of choiceThe freedom to choose who you work with, where you work, and for how long you work is another of the benefits of contract jobs. As a contractor, you can carefully select the Life Sciences companies you want to work for, and you can choose roles or projects that interest you and avoid those that don’t. In addition, you can select the contracts that best suit you, whether you consider the location in which you will be based or the length of the contract.Gaining broad skills and experienceThe potential to gain much broader skillsets and a wealth of experience is another benefit of contract work in the Life Sciences sector. Making this benefit even more attractive is that you can do this in a relatively short time.As a contractor, you probably will fill a specific role for a variety of Life Sciences companies. By working on different projects in those companies, you will gain insights into and experience in a diversity of systems and workflows, some of which will be unique to specific companies. This is not possible if you remain a permanent employee within one company.Contract work also keeps work experience fresh, as your responsibilities are not likely to become monotonous or repetitive. The continued challenges that come your way are opportunities to diversify your skillset, which will count in your favor as you continue to progress your career through contract jobs. Find the right roleSince 2012, EPM Scientific has placed candidates in their next Life Sciences role, including both contract and permanent positions. Register your resume on our site to access the latest role​s on the Life Sciences job market and find out how we can help you define your next career move.​

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The Benefits of using Life Sciences contractors/freelancers

The use of life sciences contractors and freelancers is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Not only are they able to provide specialized expertise, but they also offer a wide range of benefits that can help a business grow and thrive. Here are 10 of the top benefits of using life sciences contractors and freelancers.1. Cost Savings: Hiring contractors and freelancers is often significantly cheaper than hiring full-time staff. This is because you only pay for the services you need, when you need them.2. Flexibility: Contractors and freelancers offer flexibility that traditional employees cannot. You can easily scale up or down your workforce as needed, allowing you to meet fluctuating demands.3. Access To Specialized Expertise: Life sciences contractors and freelancers often have specialized skills and expertise that can be invaluable to a business.4. Faster Turnaround Time: When you need something done quickly, hiring a contractor or freelancer is often the fastest way to get the job done.5. Reduced Overhead: Contractors and freelancers don’t require the investment in overhead expenses that full-time employees do, such as office space and benefits.6. Fresh Perspective: Bringing in a contractor or freelancer can bring a fresh perspective to a project and help generate new ideas.7. Lower Risk: Hiring a contractor or freelancer reduces the risk that comes with hiring full-time employees. If a project doesn’t meet expectations, you can simply end the contract and look for a better fit.8. Increased Productivity: With more specialized expertise, contractors and freelancers can often complete projects more efficiently and quickly than full-time employees.9. Focus On Core Activities: By outsourcing more specialized tasks to contractors and freelancers, businesses can focus more on their core activities and reduce distractions.10. Improved Morale: Hiring contractors and freelancers can help to improve morale among existing staff, as they don’t have to take on extra tasks they may not be qualified or comfortable with.At EPM Scientific, we are the leading provider of life sciences contract and freelance recruitment services. We understand the importance of finding the right talent for the job, and have the experience and expertise to help you find the perfect candidate for your business. Request a call back from us todayto learn more about how we can help you find the perfect contractor or freelancer for your business.

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