From Pharma to MedTech: How Professionals Are Making the Jump

Exploring the career moves, transferable skills, and mindset shifts redefining talent mobility in life sciences.

Europe’s MedTech sector is now valued at €150 billion, making it the second-largest globally after the US. It employs over 880,000 professionals across 37,000 companies, 90% of which are innovative SMEs. Powered by AI-enabled diagnostics, next-generation implantables, and the acceleration of personalised medicine, MedTech is evolving rapidly - and it's not just reshaping patient care, but the careers that drive it.

As demand increases, professionals from pharmaceutical backgrounds - particularly those in Quality Assurance (QA) and Regulatory Affairs (RA) are recognising a growing opportunity to pivot into this dynamic field.

Navigating the Pharma to MedTech Transition

By Aimee, MedTech Recruitment Specialist at Panda

The transition from Pharma to MedTech is becoming increasingly common, but the journey isn’t always straightforward. As MedTech and Pharma industries share some regulatory overlap, it’s tempting to think the switch would be relatively seamless. However, this is often not the case.

One key observation we see time and again is that candidates with a background in Quality often adapt more quickly and perform better in MedTech roles than those with Regulatory Affairs (RA) experience.

When comparing Regulatory Affairs (RA) between Pharma and MedTech, there are some fundamental differences that make the transition more difficult for Pharma RA candidates. Regulatory standards in MedTech are more complex and ambiguous. The industry is divided into classes depending on risk, and the ambiguity that comes with determining how to navigate this regulatory environment often leads to complications with authorities. In contrast, Pharma regulations are typically more specific, and there’s less room for interpretation. This clarity helps candidates with a Pharma background adjust more slowly to MedTech’s evolving standards.

Meanwhile, the principles of Quality are surprisingly consistent across industries. Whether it's Pharma, MedTech, or even food or high-tech, Quality is built on universal foundations: risk management, compliance, continuous improvement, and process optimisation. These principles translate well, and the ability to navigate complex quality management systems and understand FDA, ISO, and other global standards is directly applicable to MedTech. That’s why QA candidates often require shorter onboarding periods and integrate into MedTech roles more smoothly.

Red Flags When Hiring Pharma Candidates

While Pharma experience is certainly valuable, there are a few red flags that come up frequently when hiring Pharma professionals into MedTech roles:

• Longer onboarding times: Pharma candidates may take longer to acclimatise to MedTech’s regulatory and operational landscape. The Pharma environment tends to be more rigid, while MedTech demands more flexibility and adaptability.
• Limited practicality: Pharma is often more defined and rule-based. MedTech requires hands-on, scenario-based decision-making with authorities and more fluid product lifecycle processes.
• Lack of MedTech-specific expertise: The intricacies of device regulations (like classifications or clinical evaluation requirements) are unique. It’s important for candidates to upskill in this area.
  

How High-Performing Switchers Prepare

Candidates who stand out are the ones who take a proactive approach to their transition. Here’s what makes the difference:

• Invest in certifications: Courses like Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) or Certified Medical Device Regulatory Affairs (CMDR) show both initiative and understanding. They help candidates get familiar with ISO 13485, FDA QSR, and CE marking requirements.
• Leverage transferable skills: If you’ve worked on regulatory submissions, clinical trials, or lifecycle management in Pharma, those are incredibly relevant. It’s about framing them properly.
• Network in the MedTech space: Attending conferences, webinars, and connecting with professionals shows commitment and builds credibility. It’s also the best way to stay in tune with the challenges and nuances of the sector.
  

For Hiring Managers Still on the Fence

If you’re hesitant to hire from outside MedTech, here’s what I’d encourage you to consider:

• Evaluate adaptability: Ask candidates how they’ve adapted to change in the past. That agility is often more important than technical knowledge.
• Don’t underestimate the shift: Transitioning from Pharma to MedTech requires more than new regulatory understanding. It’s a cultural shift too, and expecting instant ramp-up is unrealistic.
• Consider Quality over RA: The principles of Quality are more universally applicable, and QA professionals tend to have an easier time adapting.
• Look beyond industry: Strong critical thinkers, communicators, and problem-solvers often outperform those with deeper sector-specific knowledge. Don’t dismiss a candidate just because their CV doesn’t tick every industry box.

If there’s one thing I want hiring managers to take away from this, focus on learning agility and soft skills. Pharma professionals - when open, prepared, and supported, they can bring in fresh perspectives and unexpected strengths. Sometimes the best hire is the one who challenges your assumptions, not just the one who mirrors your current team.

For Candidates Considering the Switch

If you're in Pharma and thinking about MedTech, don’t wait until you feel “fully ready.” Take action:

• Start learning: Look into ISO 13485, MDR, CE marking, and medical device classification.
• Reframe your experience: Highlight overlaps and clearly connect the dots in your CV.
• Upskill intentionally: Short courses or certifications go a long way in showing intent.
• Step in, even sideways: Interim, freelance, or contract roles can offer a foot in the door and often lead to more.
  

Ready to Explore What’s Possible?

Curious about how your skills could translate? Or ready to explore cross-industry hiring?
Connect with me to explore what your next chapter in MedTech could look like.

• Aimee Brenner
• Partner and Principal Key Account Manager | Permanent Division | Q&R Specialist
• a.brenner@panda-int.com