Hiring unicorns: the talent crunch in digital health
October 9th 2025
Health and care organisations are accelerating their digital transformation plans but finding the right talent to deliver them is proving far harder.
At a recent Compass Carter Osborne round table, HR leaders spoke openly about a growing capability gap: a shortage of professionals who understand both the technical side of digital innovation and the complex, human-centred world of care delivery.
“We’re looking for data analysts to come into the business, but what we’re really looking for are unicorns; people who understand the sector and the tech, and they’re just not out there.”
It’s a familiar challenge. As demand rises for digital fluency across every level of the organisation, from frontline teams to senior leadership, many providers are finding themselves stuck between ambition and availability.
Building the skills, not waiting for them
Rather than wait for perfect-fit candidates, some organisations are taking a longer view: investing in their existing people, building in-house expertise, and creating learning pathways to nurture digital confidence at every level.
This isn’t about technical training alone. Several panellists noted that being a “digital organisation” means much more than using the latest tools, it’s about changing how people think, collaborate and solve problems.
“Digital capability isn’t a bolt-on, it’s a shift in mindset. It means approaching your work differently, every day.”
Still, the scale of change can be daunting. Leaders are grappling with how to upskill teams, embed digital fluency into hiring practices, and keep culture and purpose intact throughout the transition.
Culture before code
Interestingly, the conversation turned to culture as a prerequisite for skills, not the other way around. Several leaders argued that focusing first on values, behaviours and adaptability creates a stronger foundation for digital growth.
“Whatever you do with technology, your cultural mindset is absolutely critical to the success of the change. You can’t separate the two.”
There was also recognition that the sector needs to think more creatively about how and where it finds talent. That could mean looking beyond traditional CVs, partnering with universities, or creating roles that blend clinical knowledge with digital thinking.
The big shift, though, may be internal. If organisations want people with the right blend of values, sector knowledge and digital capability, they may need to grow them from within
In brief:
Health and care providers face a growing digital talent gap and can’t afford to wait for unicorn hires.
True digital capability involves mindset, not just technical skills.
Culture-first strategies, internal development, and creative hiring approaches are key to closing the gap.
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