Director, Data & Digital Strategy, Biomedical Research

Novartis seeks a Director, Data & Digital Strategy, Biomedical Research in Basel, CH, to lead AI and data strategy for drug discovery, aligning with global initiatives and senior leadership. The role requires 10+ years in pharma R&D, data science, or strategy, with experience in cross-functional teams and digital transformation.

The Director will lead the Data & Digital AI strategy for Novartis Biomedical Research, translating global ambitions into actionable initiatives. This role is central to advancing AI in drug discovery, ensuring data readiness and platform scalability, and supporting the company’s Reimagining Work agenda.

Responsibilities

• Shape and execute the AI and digital strategy for Novartis Biomedical Research, aligning with senior leadership and stakeholders.
• Create and maintain a comprehensive AI roadmap for the business unit, communicating it effectively across teams.
• Lead cross-functional teams to deliver and scale digital initiatives successfully.
• Oversee strategic AI projects from concept to execution, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Support governance by preparing executive materials, facilitating meetings, and tracking action items.
• Drive adoption of AI-driven processes through change management and organization-wide education.
• Act as a strategic advisor to leadership teams, offering insights on AI enablement, scientific value, and emerging trends.

Requirements

• Master’s or PhD in scientific, technology, computational science, or data science fields.
• 10+ years of experience in multidisciplinary environments across the pharma R&D continuum, ideally in data science, strategy, or AI.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing digital or AI strategy within complex, matrixed life sciences or pharmaceutical R&D organizations.
• Experience in governance facilitation, executive content preparation, and supporting senior decision-making.
• Current understanding of AI and data science trends in pharma or healthcare, including alignment with external developments.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional, multidisciplinary teams from concept to delivery.
• Experience managing multiple projects, including budgets, resources, and timelines, with consistent on-time, on-budget delivery.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, influence, and communication skills to drive change and collaboration.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to translate broad goals into concrete, measurable actions.

Nice to have

• MBA degree.
• Prior consultancy experience.

About the company

Novartis is committed to inclusive practices and provides reasonable accommodations to support all individuals in the workplace.

• Commitment to reasonable accommodations for all employees.