Next-generation Talent Acquisition (TA) in Pharma, MedTech, and Life Sciences (LS)

Pharma, MedTech, and Life Sciences (LS) organizations are operating in an increasingly complex talent environment shaped by scientific innovation, digital transformation, regulatory scrutiny, and evolving workforce demands. Persistent shortages of specialized talent, fluctuating hiring needs driven by R&D pipelines and product launches, and heightened governance requirements are redefining the role of Talent Acquisition (TA). While operational discipline remains essential in this highly regulated industry, enterprises are increasingly expected to position TA as a strategic function that enables workforce agility, supports business priorities, and strengthens organizational resilience.

Building on Everest Group’s broader research on next-generation TA, this report examines how these trends manifest specifically within the pharma, MedTech, and LS sectors. Based on a targeted survey of senior TA leaders, it explores the key forces reshaping the industry’s talent landscape, investment priorities across people, processes, platforms, and partners, and the distribution of TA maturity personas ranging from execution-led organizations to enterprise orchestrators. The report also outlines how governance, technology, ecosystem partnerships, and integrated operating models can help organizations move beyond execution-focused hiring to deliver stronger workforce outcomes and sustained business impact.