Head Clinical Development AI & Technology

Novartis seeks a Director to lead the AI, data, and technology strategy for Clinical Development in Basel, overseeing digital transformation and scalable platform delivery.

The company is looking for a strategic leader to define and execute the enterprise-wide technology and artificial intelligence roadmap for Clinical Development. This role involves architecting advanced digital ecosystems and analytics to optimize the entire clinical development lifecycle, while serving as a key advisor to senior leadership on digital modernization and automation initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Formulate and implement the comprehensive technology, data, and AI strategy for Clinical Development.
• Provide strategic guidance to executive leadership regarding digital transformation, automation, and data modernization efforts.
• Oversee the delivery of scalable platforms and AI solutions across all clinical development functions.
• Manage product roadmaps, lifecycle governance, vendor relationships, and overall platform performance.
• Identify, prioritize, and industrialize AI and generative AI use cases that deliver measurable scientific impact.
• Integrate analytics, automation, and diverse data assets to streamline end-to-end clinical workflows.
• Ensure strict adherence to global standards for good clinical practice, data privacy, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance.
• Establish robust governance frameworks, operating models, and structures for cross-functional collaboration.
• Lead global, matrixed teams comprising technology, data science, engineering, and platform leadership experts.
• Drive continuous improvements in delivery quality, release management, and operational resilience.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Technology, Data Science, Engineering, Life Sciences, or equivalent professional experience.
• At least 10 years of leadership experience in global, matrixed environments within regulated sectors like pharmaceuticals or healthcare.
• Deep expertise in clinical development processes and the supporting technology platforms used throughout the development lifecycle.
• Proven track record of designing and scaling AI and machine learning solutions within regulated environments.
• Strong knowledge of data architecture, cloud technologies, and enterprise-scale digital platform implementation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams across technology, data science, and engineering functions.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements including good clinical practice, data privacy, and data integrity standards.

Nice to have

• Master of Business Administration or equivalent leadership qualification.
• Experience leading large-scale organisational transformation and artificial intelligence-driven change management initiatives.

What the company offers

• Relocation support is offered.
• Competitive benefits including insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programs.
• Flexible and hybrid working options where possible.
• Minimum of 14 weeks paid parental leave.
• Eligibility for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters.

About the company

Novartis is committed to reimagining medicine together and rewarding the people who make it happen. The company helps people with disease and their families through a community of smart, passionate people collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities served.

• Committed to reimagining medicine together and rewarding the people who make it happen.
• Helping people with disease and their families takes a community of smart, passionate people collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other.
• Committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities served.