The Talent Equation: Building High-Impact Clinical Teams

Beyond The Protocol

In the world of biotech and clinical trials, hiring the right talent is as critical as science itself. A single hiring decision can influence the success of a trial, the efficiency of an organization, and ultimately, patient outcomes.

In this episode, we sit down with Bryan Blair, a leader in biotech and pharma recruitment, to explore the evolving landscape of clinical hiring.

With a background in building high-performing teams for some of the industry’s most innovative companies, Bryan shares strategies for optimizing recruitment in a competitive market.

We’ll discuss:

• The role of AI and data-driven hiring in accelerating clinical trials
• Why cultural alignment is a key predictor of long-term success in clinical operations
• The growing demand for specialized talent and the skills shaping the future of biotech
• How hybrid and remote work models are reshaping workforce strategies

Whether you’re leading clinical operations, managing a growing team, or looking to refine your hiring approach, this episode provides actionable insights to help you build stronger, more effective teams in an increasingly complex industry.

Welcome to Beyond the Protocol—where authentic conversations about clinical research happen.

Hosted by Melody Keel, bringing together diverse professionals from across the industry to share insights and experiences about what it really takes to deliver successful clinical trials.

This isn't about perfect processes—it's about real people sharing real solutions.

Let's go beyond the protocol.

That's all for today's episode of Beyond the Protocol—where we explore what it truly takes to deliver successful clinical trials.

If you found value in today's conversation, please subscribe, share with your network, and leave a review.

Have experiences or insights to share? Reach out and be part of the conversation.

Join us next week as we continue to discover what lies beyond the protocol.

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This Podcast is Sponsored by The Research Associate Group, Inc.

Chapters

1. Welcome and Guest Introduction (00:00:00)

2. Brian’s Journey into Biotech and Pharma Recruitment (00:01:42)

3. Challenges in Today’s Job Market (00:03:58)

4. Consulting and Fractional Work as a Pivot (00:06:36)

5. Adjusting Expectations in a Tough Market (00:09:29)

6. The Role of AI in Recruitment and Employability (00:09:55)

7. AI in Talent Acquisition and Hiring Strategy (00:12:25)

8. The Cost of Poor Hiring Strategy and Culture (00:17:46)

9. Building Mission-Aligned Clinical Teams (00:21:11)

10. The Future of Hiring in Biotech and Pharma (00:26:55)

11. Final Takeaway: Get Selfish About Hiring (00:31:22)

12. Closing Reflections (00:34:59)