How ESG is Changing Life Sciences Hiring

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives are rapidly reshaping the landscape of talent acquisition in the life sciences sector, particularly in the UK and Ireland. As we navigate through 2025, it's clear that ESG considerations have become a pivotal factor in attracting and retaining top talent in this innovative industry.

The Rising Importance of ESG in Life Sciences

The life science industry is among the largest carbon emitters, with biotech and pharma as the leading contributors. It's no surprise that life science companies are focusing on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives.[2] This focus is not just about environmental responsibility; it's becoming a crucial element in talent acquisition strategies.

By 2029, Gen Z and millennials will account for 72% of the world's workforce. This workforce has placed greater importance on ESG issues than previous generations. Considering the industry's impact on the environment and the global force of this growing talent, millennials and Gen Z will keep the life science industry on its toes.[2]

ESG as a Talent Magnet

Employers must understand that candidate attraction is more than high salaries and fancy titles. This workforce wants leaders to fearlessly and publicly take a stance on their ESG initiatives and to make it a part of the workplace culture. Failure to do so will make it difficult to attain top talent, further adding to current life science recruitment challenges due to workforce shortages and widening skills gaps.[2]

In the UK and Ireland, where the life sciences sector is projected to face a shortfall of 133,000 skilled workers by 2030, ESG initiatives can be a critical differentiator in attracting talent.

Integrating ESG into Recruitment Strategies

To effectively leverage ESG in hiring, life sciences companies should consider the following strategies:

1. Showcase ESG Commitments: With Gen Z and millennials viewing social and environmental responsibilities as a key differentiator when considering where to work, it's no surprise that an employer's ESG initiatives have become a crucial component of the life science recruitment process. Whether your organisation is already incorporating sustainable practices into your operations and mitigating risks to climate change or planning to do so, this is the opportunity to showcase that.[2]
2. Develop a "Green" Employer Value Proposition (EVP): "Today's labor market wants to join companies that make a difference in a real way," says Cynthia Burkhardt, Global Head of Talent Acquisition at Kimberly-Clark.[2] Incorporating ESG initiatives into your EVP can significantly enhance your appeal to potential candidates.
3. Upskilling for ESG Competencies: Studies suggest that 67% of employees are willing to remain with a company that invests in their professional growth. To meet these expectations, life sciences leaders must proactively address skills gaps through structured upskilling and career development pathways. Recognising that a lack of career growth is a major driver of employee turnover, companies should explore innovative L&D methods like virtual reality (VR) training, gamification, and microlearning. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, firms not only enhance employee engagement but also ensure their workforce is equipped to handle the evolving demands of the industry.[1] This includes training in ESG-related skills and knowledge.
4. Flexible Work Arrangements: For the life sciences industry, however, a fully remote model is often impractical due to the hands-on, lab-based nature of many roles. This is where hybrid working offers a unique solution. Employees can spend crucial days on-site for lab work while handling administrative tasks and data analysis from home. This flexibility not only suits the diverse needs of life sciences professionals but also aligns with employee expectations in 2025, where many continue to seek remote or hybrid opportunities to maintain the balance they achieved during the pandemic.[3]

The Future of ESG in Life Sciences Hiring

As we look towards the future, it's clear that ESG will continue to play an increasingly important role in life sciences hiring. Providing flexibility, supporting mental health, and demonstrating commitment to ESG and social impact will not only improve employee satisfaction but also enhance the company's attractiveness as an employer. By adopting these strategies, life sciences organisations can better manage recruitment challenges and ensure continued success in 2025 and beyond.[3]

In conclusion, as the life sciences sector in the UK and Ireland grapples with talent shortages and evolving workforce expectations, ESG initiatives offer a powerful tool for attracting and retaining top talent. By integrating ESG considerations into their hiring strategies, companies can position themselves as employers of choice in this competitive landscape.

Citations: [1] The Future of Life Science Recruitment: Trends and Predictions for 2025 - Groom & Associates [2] Life Science Recruitment: Why ESGs Are Important | PeopleScout [3] https://www.csgtalent.com/insights/blog/recruitment-challenges-facing-life-sciences-industry-execs-in-2025/ [4] Our Predictions for Life Sciences in 2025 (via Passle) [5] AI, sustainability and regulatory push set to transform Pharma in 2025 - Accountancy Age [6] Pioneering Change: Innovation across Life Science Sustainability and ESG Excellence, Powered and Led by ISPE’s Women in Pharma? [7] Life Sciences ESG Knowledge Project released its 2025 benchmark questionnaire for investors [8] ESG in 2025: Navigating challenges and embracing opportunities | Kreston Reeves

?