Manager, Operational Excellence

Responsibilities:                                                                                                                

• Engage with user communities to identify gaps and high-priority improvement areas, aligning with leadership to frame business optimisation rationale and assess project feasibility.
• Support projects to optimise business processes from initiation to transition, ensuring requirements are met and resources are used efficiently.
• Provide operational oversight of medically led business processes, including monitoring project execution, managing risks, and facilitating resource planning.
• Engage and communicate with stakeholders to drive change management and ensure uptake of optimised ways of working.
• Support the build and management of platforms, systems, processes, and tools to align internal stakeholders for execution and communication.
• Support the setup, maintenance, and closure of work packages for existing systems and processes.
• Define impact indicators and key performance indicators (KPIs) for business process optimisation and measure their effectiveness.
• Ensure initiatives are visible and effectively communicated across the organisation.
• Present to leadership on key strategic and operational aspects, opportunities, progress, and risks of programmes and initiatives.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement by supporting change management efforts and driving accountability.

Essential Requirements

• Relevant educational background in life sciences/healthcare (ideally a Bachelor’s degree or above) or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• At least 5 years in drug development or related experience, with familiarity with operational aspects of drug development; experience in Medical Affairs preferred.
• At least 3 years of matrix management experience, supporting complex international multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in global organisations with project management expertise.
• Understanding of business processes, Good Clinical Practice, and drug development processes.
• Organisational awareness, including experience working cross-functionally and in global teams.
• Ability to think strategically and visualise potential future scenarios based on business needs.
• Excellent English language skills, both written and spoken.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience utilising digital tools and demonstrated digital savviness in support of operational excellence initiatives.
• Proven ability to influence without authority in highly matrixed organisations, with strong interpersonal, problem-solving, negotiation, and conflict management skills.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:

Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve.