Head Clinical Development AI & Technology

Primary Location: London, United Kingdom
Other Locations: Dublin, Ireland; Basel, Switzerland; United States
Relocation Support: Yes

About The Role

Lead the design and execution of a scalable, enterprise-aligned technology, data, and artificial intelligence strategy for Clinical Development. Architect and operationalize advanced digital platforms, analytics ecosystems, and artificial intelligence and generative artificial intelligence capabilities to optimize end-to-end clinical development execution from study design through submission. Drive integration of structured and unstructured data assets, industrialize artificial intelligence use cases tied to key scientific questions, and ensure compliant, high-performance systems that accelerate evidence generation, optimize delivery, and enable real-time, data-driven decision-making at global scale.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute end-to-end technology, data, and artificial intelligence strategy for Clinical Development
• Act as strategic advisor to senior leadership on digital transformation, automation, and data modernization
• Deep ecosystem engagement to proactively identify emerging trends and translate them into iterative, impact-driven plans that accelerate Clinical Development
• Lead delivery of scalable platforms and artificial intelligence solutions across all clinical development capability areas
• Oversee product roadmaps, lifecycle governance, vendor partnerships, and platform performance
• Drive identification, prioritization, and industrialization of artificial intelligence and generative artificial intelligence use cases with measurable impact
• Integrate analytics, automation, and diverse data assets to enable seamless end-to-end clinical workflows
• Ensure compliance with good clinical practice, data privacy, cybersecurity, and regulatory standards globally
• Establish robust governance frameworks, operating models, and cross-functional collaboration structures
• Lead global, matrixed teams across technology, data science, engineering, and platform leadership
• Drive continuous improvement in delivery quality, release management, and operational resilience

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Technology, Data Science, Engineering, or Life Sciences or equivalent experience
• Minimum 10 years of leadership experience within global, matrixed environments in regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals or healthcare
• Deep expertise in clinical development processes and supporting technology platforms across the full development lifecycle
• Proven experience designing and scaling artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions in 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
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to translate complex technical concepts clearly

Qualifications

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

Pay

The salary for this position is expected to range between $ per year. The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and will be reviewed periodically upon joining Novartis. The compensation package includes a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility for annual equity awards.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, life, and disability benefits
• 401(k) with company contribution and match
• Generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves