Director Data & Digital Strategy BR

Job Description Summary

This key director for strategy role will enable and drive the creation of the data & digital strategy for Biomedical Research in alignment with the Novartis AI strategy and will ensure execution of it by designing the required strategic initiatives driven by the Data & Digital Office.
The position holder will work closely with the Data & Digital teams of RX, data42, the Computational Science Council and key stakeholders across the organization including all of the main scientific pillar teams to ensure value delivery and optimal use of data and digital assets and sound investment decisions into the right priorities.
The key driver behind this position is to build strategy for Data Science & AI enablement in Biomedical Research as well as contribute to overall R&D AI strategy, ensuring successful execution of agreed strategic initiatives as well as reviewing overall spend, contracts, expenses, resources and suggest required actions for optimal use of the budget in alignment with Finance.

 

Job Description

• Help define and execute the AI & Digital strategy for the organization, ensuring alignment with senior leadership and key stakeholders.

• Develop, maintain, and communicate a comprehensive AI roadmap across the business unit.

• Lead and coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure successful delivery and scaling of digital initiatives.

• Drive high-impact, strategic AI projects from concept through to execution, ensuring organizational objectives are met.

• Support governance and decision-making processes by preparing content, facilitating meetings, and implementing action items effectively.

• Promote awareness, adoption, and change management for AI-driven processes and foster understanding organization-wide.

• Serve as a strategic thought partner to the Data and Digital Leadership teams in Biomedical Research and Novartis, providing insights and advice on AI enablement, scientific value, and emerging trends.

 

Experience & Qualification Requirements:

• Proven experience developing and implementing digital or AI strategy in a complex, matrixed organization, ideally within life sciences or pharmaceutical R&D.

• Experience facilitating governance processes, preparing executive-level content, and supporting decision-making at senior leadership levels.

• Up-to-date knowledge of digital, AI, and data science trends, applied to Pharma or Healthcare, including expertise in aligning internal capabilities with evolving external landscapes.

• Demonstrated leadership of cross-functional, multidisciplinary project teams, including forming, directing, and scaling initiatives from concept to delivery.

• Strong background in managing multiple projects, including budgets, resources, and timelines, with a track record of delivering on time and within budget.

• Excellent stakeholder engagement, influencing, and communication skills with the ability to drive organizational change and foster collaboration.

• Strategic thinker with the ability to see the "big picture", translating complex strategies into concrete actions and measurable impact.

Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve.

 

Skills Desired

Analytical Skill, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Business Development, Business Partners, Business Strategy, Change Management, Data Analytics, Decision Tree (Forecasting Model), Finance, Go-To-Market Strategy, Influencing Skills, Leadership, Management Consulting, Pipeline (Software), Senior Management, Strategic Planning