A Global Perspective

Unlike many industry surveys, this year’s report intentionally avoided focusing on one region or seniority level. The goal was simple: to paint an honest, global picture of what Quality teams are experiencing right now.

Over 60% of respondents described their roles as global in scope, reflecting the increasingly interconnected nature of Quality operations. Organisations represented ranged from smaller firms to multinationals, with more than half employing over 5,000 people.

The Key Themes of 2025

1. AI and Automation Are Here — and Growing Fast
More than 85% of respondents said they were either implementing or reviewing ways to use AI or automation within their Quality processes. Even more strikingly, 60% noted that their organisations plan to use AI to enhance product portfolios.

AI knowledge is now one of the most in-demand skillsets in Quality — and it’s changing the way teams operate. From predictive analytics to smarter QMS tools, AI is becoming a cornerstone of modern Quality strategy.

2. The Impact of Regulatory Change
Nearly half of all respondents (46%) said that recent regulatory updates — including FDA, MDR, and ISO revisions — had a significant or moderate impact on their Quality strategies.
Many professionals cited the ongoing challenge of keeping up with evolving global standards, especially where digitalisation and new compliance models intersect.

3. Critical Skills Shortages
When asked about talent shortages, Design Assurance topped the list, followed closely by Software Quality and Regulatory Compliance.
As product development becomes more software-driven, Quality teams need professionals who can work confidently in hybrid environments — bridging technical understanding with regulatory depth.

4. The Return-to-Work Divide
Perhaps one of the clearest challenges in 2025 is the growing gap between employer and employee expectations around on-site vs. hybrid work.
Line managers consistently cited a reluctance to return to the workplace as one of the biggest barriers to hiring. While many organisations are resuming on-site operations, candidates remain drawn to flexibility — a balance the industry continues to navigate.

5. Career Mobility Is Still High
Despite strong levels of job satisfaction, more than 70% of Quality professionals said they would consider a move if approached with the right opportunity.
It’s a reminder that, even in a competitive hiring environment, the market remains dynamic — and that experienced Quality leaders are open to new challenges if they align with their goals and values.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 Bi-Annual Survey reinforces what many in the industry already feel: Quality Assurance is evolving fast.
AI and automation are reshaping how teams work, regulatory frameworks are tightening, and the competition for skilled professionals is more intense than ever.

At LDI Search, we’ll continue to use these insights to help both employers and candidates make informed decisions — building partnerships that last and careers that thrive.

You can access the full LDI 2025 Quality Assurance Survey Report or get in touch with our team to discuss the findings in more detail.

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