Ever considered a move to Denmark or Switzerland? Here’s why you probably should… We spoke to Callum Jones, Client Services Director of Blackfield Associates and Life Sciences recruitment expert, to discover the top 5 reasons people are choosing these beautiful European countries for their next career step.
Denmark
- Rates and salaries on average are the 5th highest globally, proving it to be one of the most lucrative countries to work in across Europe.
- Any non-Danish candidates can be eligible for the “tax expat scheme” allowing them roughly 65% retention.
- Significant investment across Denmark for the foreseeable future within the life sciences industry is providing plenty of opportunity.
- Denmark currently ranks 4th in the Quality of Life index, according to Numbeo,[1] and occupied the number 1 or 2 spot from 2018 – 2023.
- Due to investment, there is urgent needs for contractors and consultants on long term basis, they have steady investment predicted over the next 4/5 years.
“Denmark is a real hot spot for the life sciences industry at the moment. We’re seeing a genuinely significant amount of capital project expenditure across the country, from companies of all sizes. The investment is due to carry on for at least the next 6/7 years, making it a great place for contracting and consulting. Along with the potential opportunities, Denmark offers an expat scheme for skilled workers, where expats can receive a significant tax break for up to 8 years. The country also offers some of the highest rates available in Europe, in correlation with the cost of living. Once you combine this together with Denmark’s quality of life and its locality, it has become one of the most desirable destinations in Europe.”
Callum Jones, Client Services Director
Switzerland
- Rates and salaries in Switzerland are probably the highest in Europe, with some being almost twice the global average!
- Switzerland has one of most advantageous tax systems in the world, with different cantons’ rates varying between 20-35%. However, this is dependent on what permit the consultant/contractor holds.
- Investment! Switzerland is very much a Biotech hub for Europe with several large manufacturing and small startup organisations. The Swiss biotech industry generated revenues of over $7.5bn in 2022,[1] and shows no signs of slowing down.
- Switzerland is located in central Europe with great transport links to its border countries and the rest of the continent. With one of the best train systems in Europe, there’s easy access to several locations to ski and enjoy it’s indigenous wildlife and beautiful landscape.
- In 2023, Switzerland held the 3rd highest quality of life ranking globally, according to Numbeo.[2] The country occupied one of the two top spots from 2019 – 2022.
“Switzerland is seen as the European hub for all things life sciences. Along with significant capital project spend, it encompasses a dense network of medtech, biotech and nanotech companies, from global players to small startups looking to make their mark in the industry. Switzerland also offers one of the highest qualities of life in the world, along with a favourable tax scheme, depending on the canton. This makes it a very desirable country for permanent relocation as well as for contractors and consultants.”
Callum Jones, Client Services Director
