Both biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies have seen significant growth in recent decades. As research and technological breakthroughs continue, these industries are likely to see significant growth in the future, as well.

Both biotech and pharmaceuticals offer sales professionals the chance to make a difference while building their own careers. Here’s what you need to know to choose the right path for you.

Biotech vs. Pharmaceutical: What’s the Difference?

Both biotech and pharmaceutical companies produce medicines, making them tough to tell apart at first glance. The primary difference is in how they produce their products.

In biotechnology companies, medicines produced have a biological basis. Live organisms, including bacteria and enzymes, are an integral part of the process and sometimes of the finished product. By contrast, pharmaceutical companies take a chemistry-based approach, using chemical and often artificial materials to produce medications.

Often, biotech companies are smaller, with significant focus on research and development, while pharmaceutical companies may be larger, with a deeper product line and a focus on their already-developed products’ uses.

Tips for Transitioning From Biotech to Pharmaceutical (or Vice Versa)

So, you’re a sales professional in biotech, but you’d like to work in pharmaceuticals…or you’re already on the pharmaceutical side and you’d like to move to biotech. Where should you start?

Consider the following tips:

• Know why you’re making the change. Perhaps the idea of working for a startup with a big dream inspires you. Or you’re looking for an established team with whom you can make an impact. Being able to “pitch” why you’re transitioning will help you find the right position and sell yourself in an interview.
• Consider certifications that work in both fields. Certifications like the RMSR or the NAPSRx can help you transition easily between biotech and pharmaceutical venues, while setting you apart from other candidates.

Working with a recruiter who specializes in placing biotech and pharmaceutical sales representatives can help you identify opportunities to make the transition.

How Your Recruiter Can Help

Your recruiter can help you:

• Fit your experience and background into biotech or pharmaceutical sales
• Identify promising job opportunities in these fields
• Connect with employers and other professionals who can help

At SMR Group Ltd, our recruiters specialize in connecting sales and marketing professionals to some of the best jobs in the biotech, pharmaceutical and medical device industries. To learn more, contact us today.