The Hiring Trends Every Medical Device Manager Should Be Preparing For in 2025

I spend most of my days speaking with people across the medical device industry; candidates, hiring managers, and teams trying to plan ahead. One thing that keeps coming up is how quickly hiring expectations are changing. The roles, the skills, and even the way candidates think about work all look different compared to just a few years ago.

If you’re managing or building a team this year, here are the trends worth paying attention to.

1. Hybrid skillsets are becoming the norm

Many companies want people who can stretch beyond a single job title. For example:

Salespeople who can talk confidently about product data or digital tools.

Clinical specialists who can also support commercial teams when needed.

Field service engineers who communicate well with end users, not just technicians.

The people who can mix technical understanding with good communication are standing out. It might be worth reviewing your job profiles to make sure they reflect the skills you actually need now, not the ones that were needed five years ago.

2. Digital experience is no longer a “nice to have”

More devices are connected, software-driven, or supported by digital platforms, and because of this, candidates who’ve worked with remote monitoring systems, apps, or similar tools tend to move through interviews faster.

Even if the role isn’t fully digital, being comfortable with technology is becoming a baseline requirement.

3. The fastest teams gain the advantage

One trend that really stands out: the quickest hiring processes usually win the strongest candidates. Some companies lose out simply because their competitors move faster.

Making interviews simpler, setting clear timelines, and giving feedback quickly really does make a difference. In 2025, moving fast isn’t about cutting corners, it’s about not leaving people hanging.

4. People want to see a path, not just a job

I hear this all the time: “Where can I go from here?” Even experienced candidates ask it.

Progression and development matter more than ever. People want to know how they can grow. Progression, development plans, training, and future opportunities carry more weight now than they used to.Teams that can paint a realistic picture of what growth actually looks like are the ones that attract and keep stronger talent.

5. Culture and communication are deciding factors

When candidates talk about their interviews, they almost always mention how the team made them feel. Clear communication, an organised process, and a sense of direction go a long way. These things shape their experience just as much as the role itself.

A good experience during the hiring process often reflects well on the company overall, and candidates notice.

6. Talent shortages aren’t easing up

Roles in sales, field service, clinical support, and training continue to be in high demand. Competition isn’t dropping anytime soon, especially as more companies expand or bring new products to market.

Forward planning is becoming more important than ever.

Final thoughts

Hiring in the medical device sector is shifting, but being aware of these trends can help you stay ahead of the curve. If you’d like support with planning, or if you have roles coming up and want help finding the right people, we’re always here to assist with medical device recruitment.

You’re welcome to get in touch or visit our Medical Devices recruitment page for more information.