Delivering quality talent in Czechia and rebuilding trust along the way 

When a global pharmaceutical client struggled to fill a key QA role in Czechia. With months of delays and no viable candidates, the pressure was mounting and trust in recruitment partners was wearing thin, we stepped in to support. 

Key stats 

• 1 interim contractor placed within weeks 
• 1 permanent hire secured through targeted headhunting 
• Expanded partnership into Hungary and Eastern Europe 

The situation 

A global pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical company had worked with R&D Partners extensively across the UK, Belgium, and Europe. But when they needed a Quality Manager and Responsible Person (RP) fluent in Czech and English, based on-site in Czechia, their internal TA team and local agencies couldn’t deliver. 

After months of searching, no suitable candidates had been submitted. The manager was losing confidence in agency support, and the unfilled role was creating operational strain. With no one on-site to sign off products for distribution, other business units had to step in remotely, adding pressure and risking delays. 

The solution 

We began by arranging a detailed call with the hiring manager to understand the role, company culture, and local context in Czechia, a market we hadn’t previously worked in. 

From there, we launched a targeted headhunting campaign focused on Czech-based professionals with the required skillset. Even when candidates weren’t interested, we used those conversations to build a referral network and map the local talent landscape. 

Through this process, we identified a consultant who was available immediately and had the right experience to step in on an interim basis. We presented this option to the client as a short-term solution while continuing our search for a permanent hire. 

The result 

We placed the interim contractor on a six-month contract, relieving pressure from other business units and ensuring product release could resume on-site. 

Shortly after, we secured a permanent hire through our continued targeted approach. The contractor remained to complete a full handover and was later extended twice to support additional local projects. 

The manager was impressed with our delivery and came directly to R&D Partners with a similar challenge in Hungary. Using the same approach, we successfully filled that role too and are now their trusted recruitment partner across Eastern Europe. 

Looking for a local recruitment partner? 

When traditional recruitment channels fall short, a tailored approach makes all the difference. If you’re hiring in new markets or need specialist talent fast, we’re ready to help.