Accelerating a US biotech’s European growth with strategic talent 

The situation 

A US-based biotechnology company, aiming to expand into European markets, sought to establish a new site in Geneva. To support this strategic move, they required an executive-level Medical Director with comprehensive experience across all stages of clinical development. Despite working with multiple recruitment firms, the company had struggled for over 12 months to find candidates with the necessary breadth of experience, particularly in early-phase development, which was stalling progress at their Swiss entity. 

Key stats 

• 60% reduction in time-to-hire compared to previous recruitment efforts. 
• 2 additional roles created as a direct result of the strength of the talent pipeline we delivered. 
• 3 countries supported in expansion: Switzerland, Germany, and the UK. 

The solution 

Drawing on our global expertise in sourcing senior talent for international life sciences organisations, we were engaged to support this critical executive search. The role demanded a strategic leader capable of overseeing clinical programmes across all phases of development, while also playing a key role within the leadership team. 

Given the complexity and importance of the position, and the company’s previous challenges in securing the right candidate, we referred the search to our executive team. We began by conducting a thorough review of the recruitment history, identifying which candidates had already been interviewed and understanding why they had not progressed. This allowed us to refine the search criteria, avoid redundant submissions and align more closely with our partner’s expectations. 

Working in close collaboration with the team, we analysed existing role models within their organisation and the wider industry. Using our advanced recruitment software, we identified professionals in Switzerland with comparable educational backgrounds and career trajectories, ensuring alignment with the required skill set. 

Our European team then launched a proactive headhunting campaign, leveraging our extensive mainland network. Through direct outreach and trusted referrals, we built a targeted pool of high-calibre candidates. Each individual was pre-screened to ensure they met the client’s criteria, allowing us to present only the most relevant and qualified professionals. 

Throughout the process, we maintained close coordination with the client’s US-based team, managing time zone differences and ensuring seamless communication. We facilitated both phone and in-person interviews, providing consistent updates and ensuring all stakeholders remained aligned at every stage. 

The result 

• We successfully placed a UK-based candidate within five months, reducing time-to-hire by 60%. 
• A second candidate was placed in the European team just two months later, further strengthening their leadership. 
• Our efforts enabled our client to expand into Germany and the UK with highly qualified Medical Directors. 
• The strength of our talent pipeline led the company to create two additional roles to accommodate more sought-after candidates. 

Looking to establish roots in Europe or the US? 

Whether you’re expanding into Europe or entering the US market, our consultants are here to help. As dedicated market experts, we specialise in niche sectors and have people on the ground with deep local knowledge. We understand the challenges of international growth, and we know how to mobilise the right talent to make it happen. 

Take the next step with R&D Partners 

Get in touch with our team today to learn how we can support your expansion goals.