Job ID
REQ-10072527
Feb 24, 2026
Switzerland
Summary
This role can be based in Basel, Switzerland, or in Cambridge, MA / East Hanover, NJ, USA. The Novartis Corporate & Business Development team is seeking a new VP / Deputy Head, M&A Transactions. This leader will be fully responsible and accountable for the end-to-end execution of deals, focusing on large-scale acquisitions and divestments (approximately $2 billion MAL value) at Novartis. The VP / Deputy Head of M&A Transactions is crucial for assessing and executing acquisition opportunities to secure external innovation and drive Novartis' future revenue growth.
About the Role
Key Responsibilities:
- Deal Strategy and Execution:
- Outline and execute a deal strategy upon identifying an opportunity, including timelines and governance planning.
- Shape and secure non-binding and binding offer terms in collaboration with various departments.
- Build and manage high-performing teams to facilitate quality decision-making at the executive level.
- Risk and Value Assessment:
- Launch and govern a Virtual Data Room (VDR) for due diligence, ensuring thorough review by Novartis internal experts.
- Coordinate business case inputs and ensure appropriate reviews are conducted.
- Incorporate findings into the risk and value assessment.
- Review and Negotiation of Definitive Documentation:
- Be the primary counterpart to M&A legal for soliciting business input on transaction documents.
- Ensure transaction documents balance Novartis' interests and partner risks.
- Governance Orchestration:
- Prepare a decision-making framework for various governance levels.
- Choreograph governance calendars to ensure timely approvals.
- Approval-to-Closing Diligence Process:
- Review new information and ensure it is adequately vetted by relevant functions.
- Act as a key partner in the integration function post-signing to ensure strategic value drivers are prioritized.
- Team Development:
- Enhance the capabilities of junior M&A Transactions leads through coaching.
- Model best practices to elevate organizational effectiveness.
- Late-Stage Landscaping:
- Lead landscaping exercises for late-stage opportunities.
- Prepare market assessments to inform strategic decision-making.
- Third-Party Relationship Management:
- Maintain relationships with financial advisors and stay updated on market dynamics.
Leadership:
- Number of direct reports: 4-5 M&A Transactions associates
- Project Team: ~20-30 associates in focused diligence assessment
Matrix Collaboration:
- Coordination across corporate and cross-functional teams.
Key Stakeholders:
- Therapy Area Leaders, C&BD Head, Executive Committee members.
Financial Responsibility:
- M&A deals with a focus on MAL value of $2 billion.
Organizational Impact:
- Critical for ensuring inorganic growth through large scale acquisitions.
A VP / Deputy Head of M&A Transactions acts as a strategic catalyst and governance anchor for Novartis, driving key transactions and ensuring organizational readiness for integration or separation.
Essential Requirements:
- 10+ years of experience in leading end-to-end M&A deals across various types and geographies.
- Thorough understanding of corporate strategy aligned with growth objectives.
- Strong financial background with expertise in modeling and risk mitigation.
- Ability to lead cross-functional teams effectively.
- Education: Business, finance, or life-science degree; a Master's degree is preferable.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
Novartis is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment and diverse teams that reflect the patients and communities we serve.
Accessibility and Accommodation:
Novartis is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to all individuals. If you require assistance during the recruitment process or need specific information, please reach out to diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com. Include the job requisition number in your message.
Why Novartis:
At Novartis, we believe that helping patients and their families requires not just innovative science, but also a collaborative community. Together, we can achieve breakthroughs that transform lives. Ready to create a brighter future with us?
Benefits and Rewards:
Discover how we support your personal and professional growth. Apply online using the form below.
Only applications that match the job profile will be considered.
Division
Strategy & Growth
Business Unit
Finance
Location
Switzerland
Site
Basel (City)
Company / Legal Entity
C010 (FCRS = CH010) Novartis International AG
Functional Area
BD&L & Strategic Planning
Job Type
Full time
Employment Type
Regular
Shift Work
No