Head AI Transformation and Enablement (Global Clinical Operations)

Job Description Summary

As the Head of AI Transformation & Enablement for Global Clinical Operations (GCO), you will define the vision and lead the enterprise‑wide AI transformation that embeds AI into the core of how GCO operates. You will own the end‑to‑end AI portfolio from enterprise platforms such as Copilot and M365 agents to bespoke AI solutions designed to address strategic business opportunities.You will act as a catalyst for AI adoption, bringing together operational insights, emerging industry developments, and cross‑functional expertise to identify and deliver high‑impact, GxP‑compliant AI solutions. A key part of this work is building AI literacy and readiness across the organisation, enabling associates to work effectively and responsibly with AI as we progress toward GCO’s ambition of 80% AI‑enabled processes by 2030.This role requires strong enterprise influence, strategic leadership, and the ability to move fast, experiment, and partner across relevant Novartis functions, and other enterprise AI governance teams to ensure our platforms, products, and workforce evolve to meet the future of clinical development.

 

Job Description

What You’ll Do

• Define, maintain, and continuously evolve the GCO AI strategy and roadmap aligned with GCO and DevAI priorities.

• Own the full portfolio of GCO AI initiatives, governing prioritisation, lifecycle progression, and value delivery.

• Develop and approve robust business cases and ensure benefits are realised and embedded into GCO operations.

• Identify and translate AI opportunities into impactful, scalable, and GxP‑compliant solutions.

• Drive strong cross‑functional alignment with GCO line functions, DevAI, DDIT, and enterprise AI governance bodies.

• Lead AI workforce enablement efforts to build the skills, tools, and mindset required for responsible AI adoption.

• Partner with internal and external stakeholders to accelerate prototyping, experimentation, and scaled implementation.

• Represent GCO in enterprise AI forums to influence platform decisions, governance standards, and solution roadmaps.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Life Sciences or related field; advanced qualification (PhD, MBA, MSc) preferred.

• 10+ years’ experience in AI, digital transformation, technology, or business solutions ideally in healthcare, life sciences, or clinical development.

• Strong understanding of clinical operations, industry trends, and technologies shaping the future of clinical trials.

• Demonstrated success leading AI or digital transformation initiatives with measurable business outcomes.

• Proven experience managing complex, cross‑functional portfolios and driving value across a matrixed organisation.

• Deep knowledge of GxP, data privacy, and regulatory expectations for responsible AI deployment.

• Strong leadership of high‑performing, multidisciplinary teams with excellent communication and influence skills.

• Expertise in Agile/SCRUM and product lifecycle management, with a track record of delivering scalable solutions.

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

Skills Desired

Agile (Programming Methodology), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Business Value Creation, Change Management, Curious Mindset, Data Governance, Data Literacy, Data Management, Data Quality, Data Science, Data Strategy, Data Visualization, Deep Learning, Learning Agility, Machine Learning (ML), Machine Learning Algorithms, Mentorship, Nlp (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) And Genai, Organization Awareness, Stakeholder Engagement, Statistical Analysis, Time Series Analysis, Vision

 

Skills Desired

Agile (Programming Methodology), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Business Value Creation, Change Management, Curious Mindset, Data Governance, Data Literacy, Data Management, Data Quality, Data Science, Data Strategy, Data Visualization, Deep Learning, Learning Agility, Machine Learning (ML), Machine Learning Algorithms, Mentorship, Nlp (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) And Genai, Organization Awareness, Stakeholder Engagement, Statistical Analysis, Time Series Analysis, Vision