Director, AQS Strategic Project Management Lead

Novartis seeks a Director to lead strategic project management within Advanced Quantitative Sciences, driving transformation and innovation in Basel.

This position is responsible for steering critical transformation and innovation efforts across the Advanced Quantitative Sciences (AQS) division. The incumbent collaborates with senior leadership to convert high-level strategic goals into actionable, enterprise-wide execution plans. By shaping the future operating model of AQS, the role aims to accelerate innovation at scale and ensure successful delivery of complex initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the complete lifecycle of strategic transformation projects from initiation to completion.
• Create and update comprehensive roadmaps that align with overarching strategic goals.
• Convert strategic objectives into detailed execution plans featuring defined milestones, priorities, and dependencies.
• Set up governance structures to track progress, manage risks, and evaluate program performance.
• Foster alignment and drive execution among cross-functional teams and Development stakeholders.
• Lead matrix teams and influence outcomes without direct reporting authority.
• Design and implement scalable processes and operating models to boost organizational efficiency.
• Promote change adoption via clear communication, training, and active stakeholder engagement.
• Deliver data-driven insights to refine prioritization and improve transformation results.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leaders on strategy, delivery excellence, and execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or higher degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, Business, or a related field.
• Extensive background in pharmaceutical R&D, life sciences consulting, or transformation roles.
• Track record of successfully leading large-scale, cross-functional strategic initiatives.
• Deep knowledge of drug development processes and the pharmaceutical R&D landscape.
• Ability to break down complex strategies into executable plans with measurable results.
• Strong expertise in program and project management, including planning, governance, and delivery.
• Proven skill in influencing senior stakeholders and navigating matrix organizations.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and data-driven decision-making abilities.

What the company offers

• Performance-based bonus tied to specific performance metrics.
• Comprehensive insurance coverage.
• Retirement and pension plans.
• Access to wellbeing resources and programs.
• Global recognition initiatives.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements where feasible.
• Minimum of 14 weeks of paid parental leave.

About the company

Novartis is dedicated to reimagining medicine through collaborative efforts. The company prioritizes pay equity as a core employment principle and strives to build an inclusive, outstanding work environment. Novartis aims to create diverse teams that reflect the patients and communities it serves.

• Commitment to reimagining medicine together.
• Pay equity as a fundamental employment principle.
• Focus on building an inclusive and diverse workforce.