Head Clinical Development AI & Technology

Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG seeks an Executive to lead AI and technology strategy for Clinical Development in Basel, driving digital transformation and scalable solutions.

The company is looking for a strategic leader to define and execute the end-to-end technology, data, and artificial intelligence roadmap for Clinical Development. This executive will serve as a key advisor to senior management on digital transformation, automation, and modernizing data infrastructure to accelerate clinical processes.

Responsibilities

• Monitor the external ecosystem to spot emerging trends and convert them into actionable plans that speed up clinical development.
• Manage the creation and deployment 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 scale AI and generative AI use cases that deliver measurable business impact.
• Combine analytics, automation, and various data sources to create seamless, end-to-end clinical workflows.
• Guarantee adherence to global standards for good clinical practice, data privacy, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance.
• Build strong governance frameworks, operating models, and structures that foster cross-functional collaboration.
• Direct global, matrixed teams comprising technology, data science, engineering, and platform leaders.
• Enhance delivery quality, release management processes, and operational resilience through continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Technology, Data Science, Engineering, Life Sciences, or equivalent professional experience.
• At least 10 years of leadership experience in global, matrixed settings within regulated sectors like pharmaceuticals or healthcare.
• Extensive knowledge of clinical development workflows and the supporting technology platforms used throughout the lifecycle.
• Track record of designing and scaling AI and machine learning solutions within regulated environments.
• Solid understanding of data architecture, cloud technologies, and implementing enterprise-scale digital platforms.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams spanning technology, data science, and engineering.
• Comprehensive grasp of regulatory mandates, including good clinical practice, data privacy, and data integrity standards.
• Exceptional communication skills with the capacity to explain complex technical ideas to diverse stakeholders.

Nice to have

• MBA or equivalent advanced leadership qualification.
• Experience managing large-scale organizational transformation and AI-driven change initiatives.

What the company offers

• Comprehensive insurance coverage.
• Retirement and pension plans.
• Access to wellbeing resources.
• Global recognition programs for employee achievements.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements where feasible.
• Minimum of 14 weeks of paid parental leave.

About the company

Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG is dedicated to reimagining medicine together, fostering a collaborative environment focused on advancing healthcare through innovation and shared commitment.

• Commitment to reimagining medicine together.