Author: Lauren de Frece

CK Group to Attend CPHI Europe 2025 in Frankfurt

We’re pleased to announce that CK Group will be attending CPHI Europe 2025, taking place in Frankfurt from 28 to 30 October. Representing us at the event will be Anna Graham and Hendre Moolman, joining industry leaders across pharma, life sciences, and biotech.

CPHI is a pivotal annual gathering for the pharmaceutical community — bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, innovators, and stakeholders from around the world. The event covers topics including formulation, API sourcing, drug delivery, regulatory trends, and sustainability in pharma.

We’re looking forward to exploring new opportunities, gaining market insights, and connecting with clients, partners, and peers across the pharmaceutical supply chain.

If you’ll be there too, don’t hesitate to reach out — we’d love to meet you in person at CPHI 2025.

Find out more about CPHI
Contact Hendre
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CK Group Sponsors the Science Social Following BioSeed North 2025

We’re excited to share that we’ll be attending and sponsoring the Science Social in Manchester on Tuesday 21 October 2025, following OBN’s BioSeed North event earlier in the day. The Science Social will be hosted at North Bar, Manchester.

Supporting Innovation in Life Sciences

BioSeed North marks the first Manchester edition of OBN’s popular seed-stage life sciences investment event, which brings together early-stage biotech and R&D companies with investors and industry experts from across the UK and Europe. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with founders, discover new technologies, and take part in conversations that shape the future of the life sciences sector.

During the day, Mary Bolt will attend BioSeed North to meet early-stage companies and explore the latest innovations. In the evening, both Mary and Victoria Walker will represent CK Group at the Science Social, hosted at North Bar, Manchester.

Partnering with OBN to Connect the Community

We’re proud to be sponsoring the Science Social once again this year — following our earlier partnership with OBN for the Oxford Science Social in June. Both events provide relaxed, welcoming environments for life science professionals to network, share ideas, and build meaningful connections after a busy day of scientific and investment discussions.

As part of our Manchester sponsorship, we’ll be supporting the evening’s refreshments and helping to create an informal space for collaboration between scientists, investors, and innovators from across the life sciences community.

“We’re really pleased to be part of BioSeed North and to continue our support for OBN’s Science Socials. It’s always inspiring to meet people driving new ideas in biotech and life sciences — and to play a part in helping those connections grow.”
— Victoria Walker, Associate Director

Connecting People and Opportunities

Events like BioSeed North and the Science Social align with what we do — connecting talented people with the organisations driving progress in life sciences, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.

We’re looking forward to meeting everyone attending BioSeed North and the Science Social in Manchester.

If you’re taking part, come and say hello!

Find out more about Bioseed North
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5 UK Startups in Advanced Therapies to Watch Through Late 2025 and Into 2026

While the UK biotech sector has faced headwinds over the past couple of years — from funding pressures to market uncertainty — several standout companies are defying the trend.

The UK continues to excel in areas such as cell and gene therapy (CGT), regenerative medicine, and immuno-oncology. Within this space, five emerging UK-based startups have made significant strides. They’re not only pushing forward with innovative science, but also securing funding, progressing clinical trials, and establishing international partnerships. These could be ones to look out for in the next few years when it comes to thinking about career moves:

Autolus Therapeutics

  • London & Stevenage
  • Focus: CAR-T therapies for blood cancers

Autolus has developed AUCATZYL (obe‑cel), a CAR-T therapy for relapsed/refractory adult acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). In April 2025, it became one of the first UK biotech companies to receive MHRA approval for a commercial CAR-T product. Its purpose-built Stevenage facility supports large-scale manufacturing and is central to its plans for broader market access.

Resolution Therapeutics

  • Edinburgh
  • Focus: Regenerative macrophage cell therapy for the promotion of organ repair

Resolution currently have a Phase II study underway to establish clinical proof of concept for the treatment of advanced liver disease. They are financially well backed and are developing a fully automated robotic Cell & Gene Therapy manufacturing platform.

Quell Therapeutics

  • London (UCL spinout)
  • Focus: Engineered regulatory T cells for immune disorders

Quell is at the forefront of immune regulation through its CAR-Treg platform, with programs targeting transplant tolerance and autoimmune diseases. In June 2025, it reached a development milestone in partnership with AstraZeneca for inflammatory bowel disease. The company is also advancing its lead programme (QEL-001) through early clinical trials, with a focus on long-term immune tolerance in organ transplantation.

 Ori Biotech

  • London & New Jersey
  • Focus: Automated CGT manufacturing platform

Ori is addressing one of the biggest bottlenecks in cell therapy — scalable, reproducible manufacturing. Its proprietary platform, the IRO® system, launched in early 2025, delivering to CDMOs and CGT manufacturers. The company has also partnered with MaxCyte to integrate gene-editing capabilities, supporting greater standardisation and efficiency in autologous therapies.

MeiraGTx

  • London (Global HQ)
  • Focus: Gene therapies for ocular and salivary gland disorders

MeiraGTx is a clinical-stage company developing gene therapies for conditions such as inherited retinal disease, ALS, and xerostomia. It operates a GMP viral vector facility in West London, supporting both internal development and external partnerships. With a major strategic alliance with Janssen (J&J), the company is well-positioned to progress several of its candidates toward late-stage development.

Conclusion:

These five companies demonstrate that, despite a challenging market, meaningful progress in UK biotech is still being made. Their momentum in advanced therapies makes them important organisations to watch as the sector evolves into 2026.

Sources

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CK Group at BioForward 2025 – Meet Our Team at Stand 45

We’re pleased to share that Jim Gleeson and Georgia Barnes from CK Group will be attending BioForward 2025 on 30 September, where they’ll be exhibiting at Stand 45 at Oxford Technology Park.

BioForward is a key event for the life sciences community, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals to connect and collaborate. As specialists in scientific, clinical, and technical recruitment, CK Group is proud to support the growth of the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors by helping organisations find the people they need to succeed.

Jim and Georgia will be on hand throughout the day to:

  • Discuss current opportunities in the life sciences sector
  • Share insights into talent trends and recruitment challenges
  • Connect with professionals seeking their next career move
  • Meet companies looking for specialist recruitment support

If you’re attending BioForward, be sure to stop by Stand 45 to say hello — Jim and Georgia will be happy to chat.

More about Bioforward here

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CK Group to Attend PIPA Conference 2025 – Spotlight on Pharmacovigilance & Medical Information

We’re delighted to share that CK Group will be exhibiting at the PIPA Conference 2025, with Principal Consultant Hendre Moolman on-site to connect with attendees.

Taking place at The Mandolay Hotel on 10th–11th September 2025, the PIPA Conference is one of the key annual events for professionals in pharmacovigilance and medical information. Following the success of last year’s event, this year’s programme once again features two focused days:

  • 10th September – Medical Information (MI)
  • 11th September – Pharmacovigilance (PV)

With a mix of keynote presentations, panel discussions, and practical workshops, the conference provides an invaluable opportunity for learning, knowledge exchange, and professional networking. Topics will cover everything from AI’s role in medical affairs, copyright considerations, and audit preparedness to EU signal management processes, inspections, and evolving best practices in PV.

This year, PIPA is also reintroducing its Evening Networking Event on 10th September, featuring a welcome drink, three-course dinner, and interactive quiz – a great chance to connect with fellow professionals in a relaxed, informal setting.

If you’re attending, do look out for Hendre and say hello. We’re always keen to share ideas, hear about your challenges, and discuss how CK Group can support your business or career goals in pharmacovigilance, medical information, and beyond.

Find out more about the conference and book your place here: PIPA Conference 2025 Details & Booking

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PODCAST: Interview Tips for Senior-Level Candidates

In the third episode of our Your Job Search Series, Julia Day and Victoria Walker share essential insights for professionals navigating senior-level job interviews, particularly in the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries.

With decades of combined recruitment experience, they dive into what truly matters at this stage of your career — from strategic storytelling to executive presence, and how to demonstrate that you’re not only qualified, but ready to lead.

Meet the Hosts

Julia Day, Client Partner at CK Group, specialises in senior and executive-level roles. With over 20 years of experience in pharmaceutical recruitment, Julia focuses on Medical Affairs and Drug Safety, supporting hiring from Translational Medicine through to Commercialisation.

She’s joined by Victoria Walker, Sales Director at CK Group. Victoria has worked in scientific recruitment since 2010 and brings over a decade of experience in the STEM sector. An MChem graduate and multiple award-winning recruiter, she brings practical insight into what employers are looking for at every level — especially leadership.

Key Topics Discussed:

Strategic Focus at the Senior Level:

  • How senior interviews differ from junior ones
  • Demonstrating strategic thinking, leadership, and influence on business outcomes

Tailoring Communication by Audience:

  • Adapting your message for different stakeholders — HR, functional leaders, global heads
  • Explaining complex career moves clearly and professionally

Company and Market Awareness:

  • The importance of understanding the company’s pipeline, structure, and challenges
  • Aligning your expertise with where the business is going

Impactful Storytelling:

  • Structuring answers using the STAR method — with focus on strategic outcomes
  • Sharing leadership examples that show measurable impact
  • There is another end letter in the STAR technique that is essential

Panel Interviews and Executive Presence:

  • How to prepare for multi-stakeholder interviews
  • Engaging a panel and displaying confident, inclusive communication

Salary and Package Conversations:

  • When and how to discuss salary at senior levels
  • Using your recruiter to help navigate compensation expectations professionally

Cultural Fit and Emotional Intelligence

  • Why emotional intelligence is just as important as experience
  • Demonstrating self-awareness, adaptability, and team leadership

Following Up

  • Sending a clear, professional follow-up message post-interview
  • Reinforcing your enthusiasm and suitability for the role

Takeaway Tips:

  • Research well — go beyond the job spec
  • Tailor your communication to every audience
  • Lead with strategic examples, not just tasks
  • Prepare to engage in panel dynamics
  • Don’t forget to follow up professionally and with purpose

This episode is part of our Your Job Search Series — guiding you through every step of your job hunt.

Other ways to listen:

Search Spotify for The Job Search Series

Click our link here


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The Top Seven Biotech Companies to Work at in 2025

The biotechnology industry is set to boom this year, with new investments into the sector for 2025. For life science professionals, working at a top biotech company means being at the forefront of these opportunities.

Below we’ve looked at the top seven biotech companies to work for based on their commitment to professional growth, career pathways, awards, funding, groundbreaking technology and new innovative therapies.

Moderna: Biotechnology and pharmaceutical

Known for its work in mRNA technology, they push boundaries in vaccines and therapeutic treatments. The company has a fast-paced, innovative culture and with the opportunity to contribute to life-changing projects.

  • Why it’s great to work here: The company is committed to employee development and offers many opportunities for growth. Employees are encouraged to contribute their ideas, creating a sense of purpose and community. They offer an inclusive work culture that encourages collaboration and creativity.
  • Recent accolades: Moderna has been recognised as a top employer for several years, securing positions on lists such as BioSpace’s ‘Best Places to Work’ for large companies for four consecutive years, and has also been ranked as a top employer by Science Careers for ten years in a row. Additionally, they were featured in Fast Company’s list of the ‘World’s Most Innovative Companies’ and was awarded the ‘Pharma Company of the Year’ by PM360 and Scrip in 2021​.
  • Career tip: The company values employees who can bring new ideas to the table and contribute to meaningful changes in healthcare. They take a collaborative approach, where diverse perspectives are encouraged.

Amgen: Biopharmaceuticals, drug discovery, and therapies

A leader in biopharmaceuticals, focusing on developing treatments for serious illnesses such as cancer and autoimmune disorders. The company is committed to scientific excellence and collaboration, with a focus on improving human health and well-being.

  • Why it’s great to work here: A dynamic work environment where employees contribute to breakthrough science aimed at the world’s most challenging health problems. Known for being employee focused, benefits include development programs and work-life balance initiatives, which contribute to high employee satisfaction.
  • Recent accolades: Amgen has earned several prestigious recognitions, including being named number 1 on Glassdoor’s list of ‘Highest Rated Companies for Vacation and Time Off’ and ranking among the top employers in healthcare in the US. The company was also listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, emphasising its commitment to environmental and social responsibility​.
  • Career tip: The opportunity to engage in collaborative work with professional growth, and is open to diverse perspectives, as the company values inclusive teams that push the boundaries of biotechnology.

CRISPR Therapeutics: Biotechnology and gene editing

A pioneer in gene-editing technology, this company offers exciting opportunities to work on the future of medicine. The company utilises CRISPR/Cas9, a groundbreaking gene-editing technology, to create therapies aimed at treating serious diseases like sickle cell anemia, beta thalassemia, and various cancers.

  • Why it’s great to work here: A collaborative and innovative work culture, allowing employees to contribute directly to transformative scientific advancements. The company creates a collaborative environment and invests in the growth of its employees, with leadership training, skill development, and involvement in cutting-edge projects – all within a supportive and welcoming work environment.
  • Recent accolades: CRISPR Therapeutics achieved approval of its CRISPR-based therapy for sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia in several countries. This groundbreaking achievement is the first-ever approval of a CRISPR-based treatment​. The company’s innovation in gene editing has also been recognised with the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering’s ‘Facility of the Year Award’.
  • Career tip: Just as important as a strong foundation in scientific research is the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where innovation and patient impact are at the core.

Genentech: Biotechnology and biopharmaceuticals

As part of the Roche Group, they are a global leader in oncology, immunology, and neuroscience therapies. The company invests significantly in research and development, creating therapies that address some of the most critical health challenges.

  • Why it’s great to work here: With a mission to make a real difference in the lives of patients, employees are empowered to do meaningful and impactful work, often directly engaging with patients. The company also provides employees with career development programs, as well as promoting a culture of diversity, inclusion, and scientific excellence.
  • Recent accolades: Genentech has been named number 1 on ‘America’s Best Employers’ by Forbes for four consecutive years, and earned a spot on the ‘Best Places to Work in IT‘ list by Computerworld for the fifteenth consecutive year. It has also received recognition as one of the best workplaces for diversity and women​.
  • Career tip: The company values diversity and looks for professionals who bring unique perspectives, but are also passionate about science and innovation.

Biogen: Neuroscience and rare diseases

A key player in neuroscience and rare diseases, addressing some of healthcare’s biggest challenges, including multiple sclerosis, spinal muscular atrophy, and Alzheimer’s. With an emphasis on innovation, the company combines cutting-edge science with an understanding of human biology to deliver transformative treatments that improve patient lives worldwide.

  • Why it’s great to work here: A collaborative and inclusive work environment, where employees are empowered to innovate and make an impact. The company has a commitment to inclusivity and emphasises employee well-being and personal development.
  • Recent accolades: Biogen earned ‘Great Place to Work Certification’ for 2024, reinforcing its reputation as an employer that values employee satisfaction and inclusivity​.
  • Career tip: Employees are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities to grow their career while making a meaningful impact on global healthcare​.

Illumina: Genomics and NGS

A leader in genomics, transforming the understanding of genetic data for healthcare and research, specialising in next-generation sequencing (NGS) and array-based solutions for genetic research. They have accelerated research in various fields with their cutting-edge technologies, including oncology, genetic disorders, and personalized medicine – aiming to make genomics accessible to improve human health worldwide.

  • Why it’s great to work here: A dynamic and purpose-driven work environment, where employees are encouraged to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in genomics. The company emphasises innovation, sustainability, collaboration, and personal development – this employee focus makes it a sought-after workplace.
  • Recent accolades: Illumina has been consistently recognised as a top employer, and in 2024 earned accolades such as inclusion in Fast Company’s list of ‘Most Innovative Companies’ and recognition for its diverse work culture​.
  • Career tip: The company thrives on innovation and collaboration, so it is key that employees show initiative and a willingness to adapt in a fast-paced environment.

Oxford Nanopore Technologies: Genomics DNA sequencing and Molecular diagnostics

A UK-based biotech leader in DNA and RNA sequencing technology, specialising in groundbreaking technologies that allow for the analysis of DNA and RNA anywhere in the world. Employees can contribute to cutting-edge science with global reach.

  • Why it’s great to work here: Known for its innovative approach and global impact, the company offers the chance to work on cutting-edge projects in a collaborative environment. Employees enjoy the flexibility to grow both professionally and personally in a fast-paced, supportive environment, with access to self-led learning platforms and mentoring opportunities.
  • Recent accolades: Oxford Nanopore was recognised for its commitment to broadening access to scientific careers, notably through partnerships with initiatives such as the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Broadening Horizons program.
  • Career tip: The company values employees who are eager to learn, adapt, and collaborate. Offering employees the chance to advance groundbreaking technology and contribute to societal impact.

What makes these companies stand out?

Innovative work: Leading advancements in areas like gene therapy, personalised medicine, and genomics.

Employee development: From development programs to advanced training, these companies invest in their employees’ growth.

Sustainability focus: Contributing to groundbreaking solutions that improve human health and sustainability.

Want to start your career in biotech today? If you’re seeking your next career move, our recruitment experts can help match your skills and ambitions with the best companies in the sector.

Contact our recruitment team to connect with leading biotech employers and take the next step in your career

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The best companies to work for in the UK chemical industry in 2025

The UK chemical industry offers exciting opportunities for professionals in 2025. We’ve looked at some of the best companies to work for in the UK chemical industry, celebrated for their innovation-driven roles, cutting-edge projects, commitment to green solutions and employee development.

  1. Johnson Matthey: Sustainable technologies and specialty chemicals
    Remaining a leader in sustainable technology, they continue to drive progress in clean energy and sustainable chemical solutions. As the world works towards a more sustainable future, Johnson Matthey’s focus on environmental impact reduction continues to place it at the forefront of innovation. Deeply involved in the hydrogen economy, they have committed around 95% of its R&D and sales toward sustainable technologies by 2030. In addition to this, a £400 million loan, backed by the UK government, was granted to support their research into hydrogen-based energy.
  • Why it’s great to work here: The company offers a collaborative work environment, flexible working arrangements, and invests heavily in employee training and career growth, making it a top choice for chemical professionals. Being known for its commitment to sustainability, it is an attractive employer for those interested in making a positive environmental impact.
  • Recent accolades: In 2024, Johnson Matthey was once again named one of LinkedIn’s Top UK Employers, they were recognised for their focus on employee well-being and career growth in sustainability.
  • Career tip: For professionals interested in sustainability, clean energy, and green chemistry, Johnson Matthey offers the chance to address global environmental challenges.
  1. Croda International: Specialty chemicals and bio-based ingredients
    A company at the forefront of bio-based innovation and sustainable chemical manufacturing for healthcare, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and agricultural products. They are a key player in sustainable chemistry, with a focus on green innovations – having committed to sourcing 70% of its raw materials from bio-based renewable ingredients by 2030 (significantly reducing their environmental footprint).
  • Why it’s great to work here: They have an inclusive culture, focus on green chemistry, and support professional development. Croda invests heavily in research and development, ensuring its employees are always working on cutting-edge projects.
  • Recent accolades: They were featured in the ‘Times Top 50 Employers for Women’ in 2024, with nearly 40% of management roles are held by women.
  • Career tip: A great place to further your career if you have a background in green chemistry, biotechnology, or sustainable product development.
  1. AstraZeneca: Pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals
    A pharmaceutical giant in chemical manufacturing and process development, they play a critical role in drug development. Employees value the collaboration on offer, as well as the cutting-edge facilities, and strong commitment to research and innovation. The company increased its R&D spending by 14% in 2023 to $9 billion, making it a great option for those in the medical chemical fields.
  • Why it’s great to work here: AstraZeneca consistently ranks among the top UK employers for its commitment to innovation and employee satisfaction. They promote collaboration, offer flexible working options, and provide extensive professional development programs.
  • Recent accolades: AstraZeneca was recognised by the Great Place to Work Institute as one of the Best Workplaces in Europe for 2024.
  • Career tip: Professionals interested in drug discovery, R&D, and biotechnology will find AstraZeneca a great company to build a meaningful career.
  1. INEOS: Petrochemicals, specialty chemicals, and energy
    A dominant player in the petrochemical and energy sectors, known for its involvement in manufacturing plastics, pharmaceuticals, and synthetic materials. The company is investing in hydrogen energy and carbon capture, with new plans to produce green hydrogen from renewable energy sources.
  • Why it’s great to work here: Well-known for its dynamic and fast-paced work environment, where employees are encouraged to take on responsibility early in their careers, making it an ideal workplace for career progression and development – especially for those within engineering and project management.
  • Recent accolades: In 2024, INEOS was again listed as a ‘Top Graduate Employer’ by TARGETjobs, making it a great choice for early-career professionals looking to gain hands-on experience.
  • Career tip: A great place to work on groundbreaking projects in areas like hydrogen energy and sustainable materials, as well as giving opportunities those entering the chemical sector with a strong reputation for hiring graduates.
  1. Syngenta: Agrochemicals and biotechnology
    A global leader in sustainable agriculture, focusing on enhancing crop production and addressing sustainability challenges. Their investment in innovative technologies has resulted in a significant reduction in the use of harmful chemicals in farming.
  • Why it’s great to work here: A fantastic workplace for those who want to work on solutions to some of the world’s most pressing agricultural and environmental issues. Employees benefit from leadership and development programs, as well as a culture of innovation and collaboration.
  • Recent accolades: Syngenta was listed among the ‘Top 100 UK Employers’ by the Guardian in 2024, recognised for its dedication to sustainability and employee development.
  • Career tip: Great opportunities for professionals with expertise in biotechnology, sustainable agriculture, or crop science to continue to innovate in agrochemicals and bio-based solutions.
  1. BASF UK: Chemicals, plastics, performance products, and agricultural solutions
    One of the largest chemical producers in the world, known for its extensive product portfolio of chemicals, plastics, performance products, and agricultural solutions. The UK branch of this global chemical company offers great career opportunities in sustainability-driven solutions. The company is dedicated to achieving environmental goals by driving innovation in agriculture, materials, and industrial chemicals.
  • Why it’s great to work here: Employees gain a global platform with access to cutting-edge projects and state-of-the-art technology. They promote a strong learning culture, providing opportunities for training and development – as well as a comprehensive benefits package, emphasising work-life balance and family-friendly policies.
  • Recent accolades: BASF was named a ‘Top Employer in Europe’ by the Top Employers Institute for 2024, showing its commitment to employee development and workplace satisfaction.
  • Career tip: A great place to work on sustainability initiatives, they offer a wealth of opportunities in green chemistry, energy storage, and bio-based product innovation.
  1. Synthomer: Specialty chemicals, water-based polymers, and high-performance elastomers
    A global leader in polymers and speciality chemicals, offering employees the chance to work on projects that make a real-life impact in industries like healthcare, construction, and automotive.
  • Why it’s great to work here: The company prioritises sustainability, and eco-friendly practices in all of its products and operations, meaning employees can work on projects that have a positive environmental impact. The company is known for nurturing creativity and providing great employee benefits, they invest in employee growth, providing training programs and career progression opportunities, with a collaborative and inclusive work culture.
  • Recent accolades: Synthomer has received recognition for its commitment to innovation and sustainability in recent years, continuing to highlight its advancements in materials for renewable energy and sustainable practices.
  • Career tip: The company’s global presence offers opportunities for professionals to engage in diverse roles across various industries, from healthcare to renewable energy.

Why do these companies stand out?


Sustainability focus: Prioritising environmental responsibility to contribute to a greener future.
Employee development: Training programs, clear career pathways, and opportunities for advancement.
Inclusive cultures: Forward-thinking companies that emphasise equality, diversity, and inclusivity, to create a working environment where everyone can thrive.

Ready to find your next role?


If you’re seeking your next career move, our recruitment experts can help match your skills and ambitions with the best companies in the sector. Get in touch today to explore exciting opportunities with these leading employers.

Take a look at other articles here:

A day in the life of interviews

How to optimise your CV for applicant tracking systems

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Why 2025 is the Pivotal Time to Transition to a New Role in UK Pharma & Biotech

As the life sciences sector in the UK enters a transformation phase, 2025 stands out as the perfect year to make a career transition in the Pharma and Biotech industries.

Several key trends suggest that 2025 will be a pivotal year for both biotech and pharma professionals, making it an ideal time for new opportunities. From fresh government funding to technological advancements, the UK’s recent commitment to boosting life sciences funding, coupled with the global shift towards personalised medicine and innovation in biotech, 2025 offers many opportunities for professionals in this sector.

Increased government investment in Life Sciences

One of the key catalysts for career growth in the UK’s Pharma and Biotech industries is the government’s substantial investment in life sciences. In the 2024 UK budget it was announced that there would be a significant boost to funding aimed at increasing the UK’s position as a global leader in medical research and innovation. The government has allocated £1 billion over the next few years to support the development of new treatments, medical technologies, and life science research – this will fuel advancements and career opportunities in areas such as gene therapy, immunotherapy, and precision medicine. This will create numerous job opportunities across the sector, not only offering competitive salaries, but also providing professionals with the chance to work on groundbreaking projects.

The UK’s role in global Biotech & Pharma

The UK has been a leader in Life Sciences for many years, with world-class research institutions and a strong pharmaceutical industry. Post-Brexit, the country made efforts to re-establish itself as a global hub for innovation, with the government emphasising the UK’s strong academic research base to create an ongoing demand for talent in the sector. Many multinational Pharmaceutical and Biotech firms are now setting up research and development hubs in the UK, and for professionals seeking an international career, this is a great time to seek new roles in companies with a global reach – providing the ideal environment for professionals to advance their careers.

Regulatory evolution and Brexit impacts

The regulatory bodies in the UK have been undergoing significant changes since Brexit, with the UK establishing its own regulatory framework for medicines and medical devices, aiming to improve efficiency and safety of patients. This presents both challenges and opportunities for professionals in regulatory affairs, compliance, and clinical trials. As the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) gains more autonomy, companies will require skilled individuals who understand the new regulations and approval processes. This presents great opportunities for professionals with expertise in regulatory affairs to transition into roles where their knowledge can directly influence the success of products.

Innovation and personalised medicine

2025 is set to be a significant year for the Pharma and Biotech industries, especially with the growing trend of personalised medicine. These tailored therapies that consider genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors are becoming a focus of R&D in the UK. As genomics evolves, there is increasing demand for roles in bioinformatics, genomic research, and molecular biology. Companies will require professionals with expertise in data analysis, genetic testing, and the integration of AI and machine learning to interpret complex biological data.

Advances in technology and AI

Much scientific development is driven by the integration of artificial intelligence, big data, and automation. AI has become a necessary tool in drug discovery, clinical trials, and manufacturing, and machine learning algorithms are now capable of analysing vast amounts of data to optimise clinical trials. However, this means that the skill set required in these industries is evolving – there is a growing need for data scientists, bioinformaticians, and AI specialists who can work alongside researchers. With new funding and investment into these technologies, 2025 offers an ideal opportunity to enter a role where you can work with cutting edge technology.

The rise of sustainable and green Biotech

Sustainability is becoming a key focus of the Pharma and Biotech industries, both globally and in the UK, with many companies seek to reduce their environmental impact. Biotech solutions, such as sustainable drug manufacturing, renewable biologics, and green chemistry, are gaining much traction. As the sector transitions to more sustainable practices, new opportunities are arising for professionals who can work on environmentally friendly innovations. 2025 will see a growing demand for specialists in sustainable production methods, waste reduction in manufacturing processes, and green technologies.

Conclusion

The combination of increased funding, technological advancements, and the growing focus on sustainability make 2025 an ideal year to transition to a new role in the UK’s Pharma and Biotech industries. Whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced professional looking for new challenges, this is the year to take the leap.

With the UK’s life sciences sector set for significant growth, now is the perfect time to get involved and take advantage of the multiple new career opportunities.

You may also like to read:

UK life sciences sees major funding boost

The 30 second CV test

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George Truman Joins the US Recruitment Team

We’re delighted to announce that our US recruitment team is expanding and one of our experienced recruiters, George Truman, has been invited to join the team. The US recruitment team focuses on the life science market and has real specialisms within the areas of cell and gene therapy, the antibody sector, CMC, and computational biology.

George has worked with CK since 2019 and has been developing the technical UK market, he has had great success within this sector. As such, he would like to carry his success to the US life science market. George also already has ties and links to Boston, Massachusetts, so this is a natural move for him and will enable him to easily move into this role.

“I am delighted to join the US team. After 4 years of recruiting technical staff in the UK for larger firms, I am really excited to move into the emerging biotech market in Boston, Massachusetts, and New England. It is great to be working with such exciting clients helping to develop such fascinating therapies and technologies. I also have I have family in Boston, have visited many times, and look forward to getting out there again.”

Contact the US Team here
Find out more about George here
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CK join the Talentmark Group

CK Group is delighted to announce that they have joined the Talentmark Group, an international specialist and executive recruitment group for the life sciences industry.

Talentmark has more than 50 years of purpose-led commitment to helping life science organisations transform human health. Since 1971, they have filled thousands of critical positions, shaping the life science industry today. Their vision for the future is to contribute to the ongoing innovation and development of important therapies and technologies that will improve quality of life and help people live longer. Talentmark has offices in the UK, Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, and the USA.

Joining the Talentmark group is a particularly exciting move for CK as it enables the company to move into a global position, invest in new systems, take a data-led approach, create closer working practices and provide a fully comprehensive recruitment service that includes executive search.

Not only is this a fantastic commercial move but most importantly CK is very pleased to integrate into a group who are very passionate about making a positive difference in the world which aligns exactly with CK values.


“We are very proud of our heritage here at CK Group and are very excited about being part of the wider Talentmark Group. Collectively, with the spread of services, the geographical coverage and the broad range of clients that we have between us, the Talentmark Group will continue to grow and be a major player in the world of life science recruitment” Jonathan Hart-Smith, Managing Director of CK Group.

CK will continue to trade as CK Group and our business relationships with our candidates and clients will continue to be the same.

If you have any questions please get in touch with Jonathan Hart-Smith below.

Contact Jonathan Hart-Smith here
Learn more about Talentmark here


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REC Awards Newcomer of the Year Nominee, Karen Kangley

This year we are delighted to say that we have three nominees shortlisted for the REC Awards. We have been shortlisted in three categories, Newcomer of the Year, Recruitment Team of the Year, and Temp Recruiter of the Year. To get to know our nominees a little better, we interviewed Karen Kangley who is nominated as Newcomer of the Year. Karen is a relative newcomer to recruitment having worked in another sector for 16 years however since taking on her role at CK, she has been fantastic, making over one hundred placements in a year!

Tell us a little bit about your background before recruitment and how you have gravitated to this role?

My background is largely in catering and hospitality. I gravitated towards ‘back of house’ and have been everything from a pot washer to a sous chef of a 3 AA rosette restaurant and, later in life, a catering manager. I was a bit late to the game embarking on my degree and did this part-time over six years (while getting married and having a baby in between, resulting in many grey hairs!)

After this I dipped my toes very briefly in sales, I realized that enjoyed it but wanted something more rewarding which led me to pursue a career in recruitment.

Tell us a bit about your role.

I work in a team of five here at CK Group which handles temporary and contract clinical recruitment. We handle a variety of roles within the clinical space (Clinical Project Managers, Research Nurses, Pharmacovigilance professionals, and Medical Writers to name a few) which keeps things fresh and interesting. I love working as part of a supportive team at CK Group – I feel really lucky to enjoy coming to work every day.

What have been your challenges in the past year?

A massive career change from around 16 years in a different industry was definitely daunting, there was a lot to learn- at times it could feel a little overwhelming and I’d naturally doubt myself but I’m really glad I stuck with it.

What has been your proudest moment at CK this past year?

My proudest moment has been working on the GRAIL project which involved recruiting over 120 clinical research professionals nationwide to roll out a pioneering early-cancer detection study. It was definitely a big challenge but feels great to know our team played a small part in such important clinical research which hopefully one day may become commonplace in the way the healthcare system detects early cancer development.

What has been your career highlight so far?

Being nominated for the Best Newcomer of the Year and as part of the Team of the Year at this year’s REC awards.

How does it feel to have been nominated?

Surreal and exciting in equal measures. I didn’t expect it but feel honoured!

A word from Karen’s Manager

“Karen has done a fantastic job since she started here at CK over a year ago, not only taking on a new role in recruitment having worked in a completely different industry, but sourcing staff for a very important outsourced recruitment project early cancer detection study.” Russell Oakley, Associate Director

A photo of Karen Kangley Recruitment Consultant at CK Group

Good luck to Karen for the awards on the 24th of November.

Find out about the REC Awards here

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