Director, Data & Digital Strategy, Biomedical Research

Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG seeks a Director of Data & Digital Strategy for Biomedical Research in Basel. The role leads AI and data strategy to drive measurable scientific impact and scale AI use cases across the organization.

This position sits at the core of Novartis Biomedical Research's shift from experimenting with artificial intelligence to delivering tangible, large-scale scientific results. The Director will define and execute the AI and data strategy, translating strategic ambitions into concrete outcomes while partnering with scientists to prioritize and scale breakthrough AI applications. By orchestrating cross-functional programs and ensuring data readiness, the role turns vision into execution and supports data-driven investment decisions.

Responsibilities

• Establish and implement the AI and digital strategy for the Biomedical Research division.
• Create, update, and share a detailed AI roadmap with stakeholders across the business unit.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure the successful delivery and expansion of digital projects.
• Guide high-impact AI initiatives from initial concept through full execution.
• Facilitate governance meetings and prepare materials to support senior leadership decision-making.
• Champion the adoption of AI-driven processes and manage organizational change.
• Act as a strategic advisor to the Data and Digital Leadership teams.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD in scientific, technological, computational, or data science disciplines.
• Over 10 years of experience working in multidisciplinary settings within the pharmaceutical R&D continuum.
• Proven track record of developing and rolling out digital or AI strategies in complex, matrixed life sciences or pharmaceutical research environments.
• Experience in facilitating governance processes, preparing executive-level presentations, and supporting decision-making at senior leadership levels.
• Current knowledge of AI and Data Science trends, particularly as applied to Pharma or Healthcare.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional, multidisciplinary project teams.
• Experience managing multiple projects, including budgets, resources, and timelines.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, influencing, and communication skills.

Nice to have

• MBA.
• Consultancy experience.

About the company

Novartis Biomedical Research is actively transforming how scientific research is conducted by embedding artificial intelligence into the daily workflows of its scientists. The organization is focused on moving beyond initial AI experiments to achieve real, measurable scientific impact at scale.

• Shifting from AI experimentation to delivering measurable scientific impact at scale.
• Embedding AI into the daily work of scientists to transform research methodologies.