Head of Data Governance, Anonymization and Quality

Novartis seeks a Head of Data Governance, Anonymization and Quality in Basel, Switzerland, for a full-time hybrid role. The position involves leading data governance, anonymization, and quality initiatives for the Data42 platform, supporting drug discovery and research with compliant, high-quality data.

The Head of Data Governance, Anonymization and Quality will lead the establishment and enforcement of data governance frameworks for Novartis’ Data42 platform, ensuring data integrity, regulatory compliance, and quality across clinical, research, and real-world data. The role supports secondary research through secure patient data anonymization and co-leads the Biomedical Research Governance Board with the Head of Data.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement data governance policies and standards for Biomedical Research to ensure consistency, integrity, and regulatory compliance across the organization
• Work with the Head of Data and Platform to integrate data governance principles into technology solutions, including 'data governance as code'
• Lead the anonymization of patient-level data to enable compliant secondary research on the Data42 platform
• Collaborate with the Head of Data on enterprise data management activities, including governance frameworks like the BR Data Governance Board charter
• Contribute to shaping and executing the Biomedical Research data strategy, aligning it with business goals and regulatory needs
• Monitor and enhance data governance and data quality practices across Biomedical Research, promoting accountability and measurable results
• Maintain audit readiness by ensuring robust controls, documentation, and compliance processes are in place
• Serve as Deputy Enterprise Data Officer (EDO), providing leadership and continuity in data governance and oversight

Requirements

• 15+ years of experience in data governance or related fields, with a strong interest in governance and AI application
• PhD or MSc in Statistics, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Biostatistics, or a related quantitative field
• Experience in drug discovery or life sciences, with knowledge of data-driven research, clinical data, real-world data, and advanced expertise in bioinformatics, computer science, or related quantitative disciplines
• Practical understanding and application of Artificial Intelligence in business or scientific settings, with proven skills in data analysis, data science, and deriving insights from complex datasets
• Proven leadership experience in building and managing high-performing global teams
• Extensive experience in creating and executing enterprise data strategies aligned with business objectives
• Track record of driving innovation and scaling new technologies or data-driven approaches
• Ability to succeed in fast-paced environments with a strong focus on execution and results
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate across functions and organizational boundaries, with strong enterprise thinking, especially with Data Privacy and Enterprise Data Management stakeholders, and excellent communication and influence skills at senior levels

Nice to have

• A scientific background is advantageous
• Interest or experience in cybersecurity, particularly related to data security
• Familiarity with Palantir Foundry

What the company offers

• Novartis aims to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people’s lives, striving to become the most valued and trusted medicines company globally.
• The company is driven by its associates; joining means contributing to this mission and advancing innovative healthcare solutions.

About the company

Novartis is committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse work environment that reflects the patients and communities it serves. The company supports reasonable accommodations for all individuals.

• Commitment to building an inclusive and diverse workplace
• Support for reasonable accommodations for all employees