Pandemic Response: Life Sciences Recruiter Report Success – Eyes Future Growth

Entrust Resource Solutions (ERS), specialist in Life Sciences and Healthcare talent acquisition, has reported 2020 figures which include a turnover increase of 110% to £4.6million, and a 47% growth in headcount across the group.

These results are, in part, attributable to ERS’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has seen existing client demand for its specialist resourcing services increase dramatically, whilst 20% of the year’s activity is attributable to new customers.

The company specialises in what it terms “bench to board” resourcing activity, recruiting for contract and permanent roles at all levels within the life sciences, healthcare, pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. Unsurprisingly, its expertise across three strategic UK locations has been critical in the on-going fight against COVID-19.

To date, the company has been responsible for placing extensive contract and permanent personnel across the UK, focused upon the development of diagnostics and testing, the manufacture of life-saving technology, laboratory skills and, crucially, the development of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Discussing ERS’ approach to recent events, Chief Commercial Director, Austin Clark, said: “There is no doubt that the circumstances of 2020 have demanded an incredible level of agility and flexibility from those engaged in the search for effective diagnostics, treatment and vaccinations.

“ERS has proven its inherent ability to respond with equal dexterity to a vastly changed landscape where there has been a significant increase in demand for life sciences and associated healthcare contractors. We’re incredibly proud of the results we’ve achieved for our UK-wide client base and the part we continue to play in this unique situation.”

Despite strides being made in both testing and vaccination, ERS is confident that demand to provide expertise specific to coronaviruses is sustainable in the mid-term, and it continues to implement a strategy of investment, internal development and recruitment in place as the company eyes significant growth in the longer term.

COVID-19 apart, the UK life sciences sector is widely recognised as sitting within the top three global biotechnology hubs, with the UK BioIndustry Association estimating the potential to create up to 60,000 additional jobs by 2025.

Reflective of ERS’ response to the sector’s upward trajectory is the appointment of recruitment business advisory specialist, Brian Creegan, as interim Managing Director. Previously Head of Business Improvement for a global resourcing agency, Mr Creegan brings over 13 years’ experience in recruitment process optimisation, talent branding and strategic planning.

Commenting on this appointment, he said: “The projected growth of the Scottish/UK life sciences sector is phenomenal and represents an outstanding opportunity for the country. Our challenge is to work closely with industry, government and academia alike, to ensure that the talent exists to make this a reality. I’m delighted to join the ERS team at such a pivotal moment for this sector.”