Designing the Future of Work in Pharma: What Talent Needs Now
New Roles, New Realities
Pharma is transforming. As digital systems, AI, and remote operations reshape the industry, work itself is being redefined. Roles are evolving faster than traditional job titles can keep up, demanding new competencies and mindsets.
At Thrive in Pharma, we believe developing future capabilities is not optional. It is the foundation of resilient and innovative organizations.
What’s Happening
Widespread need for upskilling. A 2022 review highlights that by 2025, half of all global workers will need to reskill for digital readiness, including life sciences (Masood et al. 2022) [1].
Pharma-specific training trends. Major firms like Johnson & Johnson and Merck have launched AI-focused workforce programs, signaling a systemic shift toward digital literacy (Business Insider 2025) [2].
Adaptable pipelines as retention drivers. Research in Malaysian pharma shows dynamic upskilling and flexible work models improve retention and engagement (Saedin et al. 2024) [3].
Why It Matters
With digital integration becoming core to pharmaceutical operations, talent strategies must evolve. Narrow job definitions are outdated. Today’s workforce needs digital agility, strategic thinking, and learning mindsets powered by continuous development and career partnerships.
What to Watch
Expansion of AI bootcamps, micro-credentials, and digital learning platforms
Sponsor-led fellowships connecting pharmacists with innovation roles
Performance frameworks adapted to value digital competence and agile delivery
Thrive in Pharma Perspective
We help pharma leaders to:
Develop competency frameworks focused on digital capability and strategic impact
Build tailored learning pathways linked to personal and organizational goals
Design change initiatives that reinforce daily practice through modern workflows
The future of pharma isn’t just in the molecule—it is in the mindsets guiding its journey.
References
Masood A. et al. (2022). Reskilling and Upskilling the Future-ready Workforce for Industry 4.0. PMC. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11146301/
Business Insider. (2025). How pharmaceutical companies are training their workers on AI. Available at: https://www.businessinsider.com/how-pharma-is-training-workers-ai-2025
Saedin A. et al. (2024). Training, Development and Flexible Working on Talent Retention in Malaysian Pharmaceutical Companies. ResearchGate. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/Training_Development_and_Flexible_Working_on_Talent_Retention
