The nice list: Five traits top pharmaceutical employers are looking for in 2026

Christmas is a time for making lists. While you may be finalising gift lists, hiring managers across the pharmaceutical industry are compiling their own: a 'nice list' of the candidates they want to hire in 2026.

Securing your next role means understanding what gets you onto that shortlist. The industry continues to evolve, and employers are screening for professionals who demonstrate a specific mix of commercial, medical, and collaborative skills.

Based on our work with leading pharmaceutical companies, here are the five key traits they are checking for.

1. Functional and process expertise

Employers are looking for professionals who demonstrate excellence in their specific field. For commercial teams, this means a thorough understanding of the sales cycle, key account management, and territory planning. For marketers, it is the ability to build a compelling brand plan and execute multi-channel campaigns. For medical affairs, clinical, and regulatory professionals, it means a clear grasp of the clinical pathway and scientific data.

2. Data and analytical proficiency

The industry's shift towards data-driven decisions now applies to every function.

For commercial teams, this now means getting granular with market and sales data. Employers are looking for professionals who can analyse patient and prescribing figures down to PCN level to implement a pinpoint local strategy, moving beyond a blanket national approach.

For medical teams, while analysing clinical trial data is a core expectation, the growing demand is for expertise in gathering and analysing real-world evidence (RWE).

Across all functions, there is a new focus on using AI tools and other technology. The expectation is that professionals will leverage these tools to drive personal and team efficiency, reduce administrative workload, and make customer interactions more effective.

3. Effective cross-functional collaboration  

No role exists in a silo. The ability to communicate specialist knowledge and collaborate effectively is essential, and employers are screening for candidates who can demonstrate cross-functional collaboration. This includes sales teams working closely with marketing and medical affairs, brand managers liaising with regulatory and market access teams, and medical teams partnering with commercial colleagues. Having experience across more than one function can be an advantage here.

4. A commitment to compliance and regulation

This is a non-negotiable in the pharmaceutical sector. Top employers need teams who operate ethically and effectively within a strict framework. For customer-facing  teams, this means applied knowledge of the most recent ABPI Code of Practice and specific guidelines such as the NHS-Industry Partnership guidelines. For technical and clinical roles, it means an expert understanding of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), and evolving regulatory submissions.

5. Adaptability to a changing environment  

The pharmaceutical sector is in flux, particularly at the moment, with turbulence in the global marketplace. In this context, adaptability demands resilience and emotional intelligence, not just flexible tactics. Employers value professionals who can maintain focus during periods of change. They’re also looking for employees who are proactive in pivoting their approach to new digital models or patient pathways and demonstrating the personal resilience to navigate a changing environment effectively.

Proving you are on the list

Having these traits is one thing; demonstrating them on your CV is another. Hiring managers are screening for evidence, not just claims.

• Instead of listing 'Teamwork,' detail a cross-functional project and your specific contribution.
• Instead of stating 'Data Analysis,' specify the data you used and the outcome your analysis supported.
• Be concise, tell a story and make impactful statements.
• Make your CV specific to each role you apply for – there is no such thing as a ‘general’ CV.
• Use an agency to build advocacy and get you in front of the hiring manager  . It’s hard to get face time when applying directly to your target pharma company or through LinkedIn Jobs.

Quantify your achievements where possible. A tailored CV that provides evidence of these five traits will always stand out.

Secure your 2026 role with CHASE

Getting your name onto the right shortlist is where we excel. As specialists in pharmaceutical recruitment, CHASE offers more than access to vacancies.

We provide detailed market insight, help you present your experience effectively, and prepare you for interviews. We recruit for roles across sales, marketing, market access, medical affairs, clinical, and leadership. We partner with you to understand your career goals and connect you with the employers who value your specific combination of skills.

Let us help you move from the 'nice list' to the 'hired list' in the New Year.

To start your conversation, browse our latest roles or contact the CHASE team today.

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