How to become a business leader in the healthcare industry

Sector trends

The healthcare sector is seeing huge growth, driven by increased global spending and investment. With scientific advancements and digital innovations like AI paving the way for exciting new opportunities, you’ll be sure to find a role that suits your specific skill set and interests.

New tech-based roles in healthcare are expected to play a pivotal role in streamlining diagnosis, treatment and patient care. Perhaps you’d like to work in the digital transformation space. Maybe you’ll work as a product manager or become a cybersecurity expert. The possibilities are vast.

We’re also seeing an increased focus on sustainability in healthcare. Organisations are adopting sustainable practices, such as green hospital designs and sustainable supply chain management, to reduce their carbon footprints. So, if you’re passionate about the impact of climate change on the healthcare system, there’s potential for you to find a role where you can make a difference.

The healthcare market is growing by 7% each year and is now valued at $10 trillion globally.
Deloitte, The rise of global healthcare companies.

As technology transforms the nature of healthcare, more specialised roles are emerging, some involving the supervision of machines performing tasks. These are likely to develop as tech continues to advance healthcare. Use your time at Imperial to develop the skills and expertise that will be in demand as these trends shape the evolving landscape of the healthcare industry.

Preparing for a career in healthcare

At Imperial Business School, we nurture the talent of our students and effectively prepare you for a successful and worthwhile career in the healthcare industry.

We encourage our students to be proactive in exploring all sub-sectors of healthcare to discover new opportunities and career paths. Healthcare is a broad spectrum, covering areas like pharma, biotech, healthcare services, insurance, charities and international agencies.

Map out the trends and the changes that are likely to shape the industry and how these affect functional job titles that you are interested in.
Andreia Ferreira, Career Consultant & Head of Full-Time MBA Careers at Imperial Business School

To get ahead, make sure you’re prepared to apply for jobs and graduate roles. Be aware of application deadlines, review your CV, start interview preparation and think carefully about your chosen career path.

Participating in webinars and conferences is another great way to stay informed about the latest trends. Following news sources, podcasts and industry professionals will also keep you up to date on healthcare industry developments.

Career support from Imperial

The opportunity to explore a healthcare career in a Business School that’s part of a STEM university is a special one. You will have access to a fantastic network of resources such as the School of Public Health (Faculty of Medicine), Bioengineering (Faculty of Engineering), E-Lab, White City Innovation Centre and the Institute of Global Health Innovation.

To help students navigate the broad healthcare industry and prepare for their chosen career, we offer a range of support:

• Healthcare online module – Provides sector-specific resources and information to build your commercial awareness of the healthcare industry.
• Healthcare career circles – Small group sessions designed to equip students from scientific and clinical backgrounds with skills and knowledge needed for graduate recruitment.
• One-on-one career consultations – Access unlimited individual consultations for tailored advice on CV reviews, interview preparation and career strategy.
• Employer events and networking opportunities – Engage with alumni, attend fireside chat sessions, and participate in specialised healthcare-focused events to network with employers and learn about industry trends and recruitment plans. The Life and Health Sciences Career Fair, held in partnership with UCL and King’s College London, offers face-to-face access to healthcare employers.
• Online resources – Access a wealth of online tools including Wall Street Prep, Graduates First, Case Coach, Going Global, and the MSc Career resources folder on the Hub.
• Healthcare Club and student leadership – Get involved in the Healthcare Club and consider taking on leadership roles to build your personal brand and expand your industry network.

How to keep up with industry change

We combine online resources and in-person support to help you build a well-rounded skill set for a successful career in the healthcare industry. Our top tip is to embrace the diverse career paths and sub-sectors in healthcare and recognise the potential intersections with other industries like technology, finance and consulting.

Staying up-to-date with the latest news, developments and recruitment activities in the sector will help you unlock valuable networking opportunities. It’s also crucial to be aware of recruitment timelines for graduate schemes and direct entry roles. This way, you can prepare a high-quality CV and cover letters tailored to the healthcare industry, ready to apply when the time comes.

As healthcare evolves with new opportunities and technological advancements, it’s important that you stay agile too. Continuously build your skill set to keep pace with industry changes and embrace opportunities for professional development. By honing your practical skills and knowledge, you’ll be well-positioned for success in this dynamic and evolving field.

What do Imperial graduates go on to do?

Our alumni leave us prepared for success and secure engaging roles in the healthcare industry such as:

• Associate Consultant at Trinity Life Sciences
• Associate Medical Writer & Publications and Medical Affairs at Avalere Health
• NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme
• Co-Founder & CEO at Dama Health
• Senior Analyst – Global Health Financing at Clinton Health Access Initiative
• Client Partner, Operations & Client Success at Qure.ai
• Analytics & Consulting Intern at IQVIA Germany
• Analyst at Windrose Consulting Group

Imperial students can transition from clinical or technical backgrounds into commercial roles in healthcare. Taking advantage of our support and career consultants can help you leverage your existing skills and knowledge to secure the right role for you.