Job ID
REQ-10078395
Date: May 22, 2026
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 is Novartis' enterprise data and AI platform, combining clinical, research, and real-world data to enhance advanced analytics and accelerate the discovery and development of innovative medicines.
As a key member of the Data42 leadership team, the Head of Data Governance, Anonymization and Quality will establish and enforce frameworks, standards, and controls to ensure data and process integrity, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of high-quality, trusted information across the organization. This role is responsible for the anonymization of patient data to facilitate secondary research while safeguarding privacy and compliance requirements. Additionally, you will co-lead the Biomedical Research (BR) Governance Board in partnership with the Head of Data / EDO to promote effective data governance and decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and implement data governance policies and standards for 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 enable compliant secondary research use on Data42.
- Collaborate closely with the Head of Data on enterprise data management (EDM) activities, including governance frameworks such as the BR Data Governance Board charter.
- Play a key role in shaping and executing the BR data strategy, ensuring alignment with business priorities and regulatory 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 and real-world data, paired with advanced knowledge in bioinformatics or computer science.
- Solid understanding and practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a business or scientific context, with proven expertise in data analysis and deriving actionable insights from complex datasets.
- Proven leadership experience, 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.
- Ability to thrive in dynamic environments and a strong execution mindset to drive outcomes and deliver results.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across organizational boundaries and cross-functionally, with excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills, capable of influencing senior leadership.
Desirable Requirements
- Scientific background would be advantageous.
- Interest or experience in cybersecurity 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 representative of the patients and communities we serve.
Why Novartis?
At Novartis, we aim 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. Our associates are the driving force behind our ambitions. Be part of this mission and join us!
Join Our Novartis Network
If this role is not suitable for your experience or career goals, but you wish to stay connected to learn more about Novartis and our career opportunities, join the Novartis Network.
Accessibility and Accommodation
Novartis is dedicated to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to all individuals. If you need a reasonable accommodation due to a medical condition or disability during the recruitment process, please contact us at diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com. Include the job requisition number in your message.
Benefits and Rewards
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How to Apply
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.