Job ID
REQ-10078395
June 02, 2026
Location: Basel, Switzerland
#LI-Hybrid 3 days/week in office
Summary
Internal job title: Head of Data Governance, Anonymization and Quality, Data42
About the Role
Data42 is Novartis' enterprise data and AI platform, integrating clinical, research, and real-world data to enable advanced analytics and accelerate the development of innovative medicines.
As a vital member of the Data42 leadership team, the Head of Data Governance, Anonymization and Quality will establish and enforce comprehensive data governance frameworks, standards, and controls to ensure data integrity, regulatory compliance, and the provision of high-quality, trusted information across our organization. This role calls for a driven, self-motivated leader who is ready to make a difference. Additionally, this position entails the responsible anonymization of patient data, facilitating secondary research while upholding privacy and compliance requirements. This role will also act as the Deputy Enterprise Data Officer (EDO) and co-lead the Biomedical Research (BR) Governance Board alongside the Head of Data/EDO to promote efficient 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 integrate data governance principles into technology solutions, including "data governance as code."
- Lead the anonymization of Novartis patient-level data to support compliant secondary research on Data42.
- Work closely with the Head of Data on enterprise data management (EDM) initiatives.
- Support the execution of the BR data strategy by ensuring alignment with business and data governance requirements.
- Monitor and continually enhance data governance and data quality practices, 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 AI applications.
- 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, complemented by advanced knowledge in bioinformatics, computer science, or related fields.
- Solid understanding and practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business and scientific contexts, with proven expertise in data analysis, data science, and deriving actionable insights from complex datasets.
- Proven, driven leader with a strong track record in developing high-performing global teams.
- Extensive experience in defining and implementing enterprise data strategies aligned with business objectives.
- History of driving innovation and embedding new technologies or data-driven approaches at scale.
- Demonstrated ability to excel in fast-paced environments with a strong focus on execution and delivering results.
- Ability to lead and collaborate effectively across organizational boundaries.
- Strong enterprise thinking mindset, particularly with Data Privacy and Enterprise Data Management (EDM) stakeholders.
Desirable Requirements
- A scientific background is advantageous.
- Interest in or experience with cybersecurity related to data security.
- Familiarity with Palantir Foundry is a plus.
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to fostering an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams that represent the patients and communities we serve.
Why Novartis?
Our purpose is to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people's lives, aiming to be the most valued and trusted medicines company globally. We believe our associates drive our ambitions and help us achieve this mission. Join us in making a difference!
Learn more about our mission here.
Join Our Novartis Network
If this role is not suitable for your experience or career goals, but you wish to stay connected and learn more about Novartis and our career opportunities, join the Novartis Network here.
Accessibility and Accommodation
Novartis is dedicated to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to all individuals. If you require accommodations due to a medical condition or disability for any part of the recruitment process, please contact us at diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com, providing your request and contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.
Benefits and Rewards
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Application Instructions
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.