Job ID
REQ-10078395
Date: Jun 22, 2026
Location: Basel, Switzerland
Available in: English
Summary
Location: Basel, Switzerland
#LI-Hybrid 3 days/week in office
Internal job title: Head of Data Governance, Anonymization and Quality, Data42
About the Role
Data42 serves as Novartis' enterprise data and AI platform, integrating clinical, research, and real-world data to enhance advanced analytics and expedite the discovery and development of innovative medications.
As a key member of the Data42 leadership team, the Head of Data Governance, Anonymization, and Quality will establish and enforce data governance frameworks, standards, and controls to ensure data integrity, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of high-quality, trusted information across the organization. This pivotal role requires a driven, self-motivated leader who can contribute significantly to our mission. Additionally, this position is responsible for the anonymization of patient data, enabling secondary research while maintaining privacy and compliance standards. The incumbent will also serve as the Deputy Enterprise Data Officer (EDO) and co-lead the Biomedical Research (BR) Governance Board alongside the Head of Data / EDO, fostering effective data governance and decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and implement data governance policies and standards for Biomedical Research (BR), ensuring consistency, integrity, and compliance across the organization.
- Partner with the Head of Data and Platform to embed data governance principles into technology solutions, including 'data governance as code.'
- Lead the anonymization of Novartis patient-level data to facilitate compliant secondary research use on Data42.
- Collaborate closely with the Head of Data on enterprise data management (EDM) activities.
- Support the execution of the BR data strategy by ensuring alignment with business and data governance requirements.
- Monitor and continuously improve data governance and data quality practices across BR, driving accountability and measurable outcomes.
- Ensure ongoing audit readiness by maintaining robust controls, documentation, and compliance processes.
- Serve as Deputy Enterprise Data Officer (EDO), providing leadership, guidance, and continuity in data governance and oversight activities.
Essential Requirements
- 15+ years of experience in Data Governance or a related field, with a strong interest in Governance and Application of AI.
- PhD or MSc in Statistics, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Biostatistics, or a related quantitative discipline.
- Experience in drug discovery and/or life sciences, with an understanding of data-driven research environments and familiarity with clinical data and real-world data, alongside advanced knowledge in bioinformatics, computer science, or related quantitative disciplines.
- Solid understanding and practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a business and scientific context, with proven expertise in data analysis, data science, and deriving actionable insights from complex datasets.
- Proven ability as a driven leader with a strong track record in leading and developing high-performing global teams.
- Extensive experience in defining and delivering enterprise data strategies aligned to business objectives.
- Track record of driving innovation and embedding new technologies or data-driven approaches at scale.
- Demonstrated ability to excel in fast-paced environments, maintaining a strong focus on execution and delivering results.
- Proven ability to lead and collaborate effectively across organizational boundaries.
- Strong enterprise thinking mindset, particularly concerning Data Privacy and Enterprise Data Management (EDM) stakeholders.
Desirable Requirements
- A scientific background would be an advantage.
- Interest or experience in cybersecurity, particularly related to data security.
- Familiarity with Palantir Foundry.
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams that reflect the patients and communities we serve.
Why Novartis?
Our purpose is to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people's lives. Our vision is to become the most valued and trusted medicines company in the world. This is achievable through our people—our associates drive us daily toward our ambitions. Join us in this mission!
Apply online using the form below.
Accessibility and Accommodation
Novartis is dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations for all individuals. If, due to a medical condition or disability, you require an accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com and inform us of your request and contact details. Include the job requisition number in your message.
Benefits and Rewards
Explore the diverse ways we support your personal and professional growth. Refer to our handbook for details.
Primary Location Salary Range:
CHF 142,100.00 - CHF 263,900.00
Division
Biomedical Research
Business Unit: Research
Location: Switzerland
Site: Basel (City)
Company / Legal Entity: C028 (FCRS = CH028) Novartis Pharma AG
Functional Area: Research & Development
Job Type: Full time
Employment Type: Regular
Shift Work: No