Job ID
REQ-10082953
Jul 10, 2026
Switzerland
Available in: English
Summary
#LI-hybridLocation: Basel, SwitzerlandWorking model: Hybrid (12 days per month onsite)Relocation Support: This role is based in Basel, Switzerland. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support - please only apply if this location is accessible to you.Imagine leading the safety strategy for some of the most innovative oncology medicines in development today. As Development Unit Head Patient Safety - Oncology, you will play a critical role in shaping the benefit-risk profile of a diverse portfolio, ensuring patient safety remains at the heart of every decision. This is a unique opportunity to influence global development programs, drive scientific and medical excellence, lead high-performing safety teams, and collaborate with senior leaders across Novartis to bring transformative medicines to patients worldwide!
About the Role
Key Responsibilities: Shape and execute the Oncology Development Unit safety strategy across the entire product lifecycle.Lead benefit-risk assessments to support informed decision-making and optimal patient outcomes.Build, inspire, and develop a high-performing global Patient Safety organization.Drive proactive identification, evaluation, and management of emerging safety signals and risks.Ensure delivery of high-quality, compliant and timely medical safety assessments and documentation.Partner with cross-functional leaders to advance innovative medicines through development and registration.Provide strategic oversight of safety governance, escalation processes, and regulatory engagement.Champion scientific excellence through coaching, capability building, and succession planning.Represent Novartis in interactions with health authorities, industry groups, and external experts.Foster operational excellence by driving innovation, process simplification, and continuous improvement.Essential Requirements: Medical degree required with extensive experience in clinical development and patient safety within the pharmaceutical industry.Significant leadership experience overseeing global drug development and safety activities across multiple development programs.Deep expertise in benefit-risk evaluation, safety signal detection, and clinical safety assessment methodologies.Proven experience leading regulatory interactions and presenting safety data to global health authorities.Strong understanding of drug development, clinical trial methodology, regulatory requirements, and scientific principles.Demonstrated success leading, coaching, and developing high-performing, multicultural teams in a global environment.Exceptional stakeholder management, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills across complex organizational settings.Fluent English, both written and spoken, with the ability to communicate effectively in global environments.Desirable Skills Specialty Board Certification is considered an advantage. Postgraduate qualification in Pharmaceutical Medicine, Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related scientific discipline is desirable. Proficiency in an additional major international language, such as French, German, or Spanish, is advantageous.Ready to make a Global Impact? At Novartis, our purpose is to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people''s lives. As Development Unit Head Patient Safety - Oncology, you will have the opportunity to shape global safety strategy, influence critical development decisions, and help bring innovative therapies to patients around the world. If you are passionate about scientific leadership, patient safety, and driving transformative change, we encourage you to apply and be part of our journey. Benefits & Rewards At Novartis, we're committed to reimagining medicine together - and rewarding the people who make it happen. Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role: CHF 207,900.00 - 386,100.00The base salary offered is determined based on gender-neutral objectives, such as relevant skills, competencies and experience in accordance with the Novartis pay setting policy and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters. Long-term equity awards granted at group level may also be part of your package. Further details will be provided during the application process. The rewards of being part of our team go far beyond base pay and incentives. We also offer a variety of competitive benefits in kind to help you thrive personally and professionally, such as insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programs. In addition, we provide flexible and hybrid working options, where possible, and minimum 14 weeks paid parental leave. Pay equity is a fundamental principle of our employment policy and reflects our commitment to create a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment that treats all employees with dignity and respect, as outlined in our Code of Ethics. Read our brochure to learn more about our global total rewards offering: https://www.novartis.com/sites/novartis_com/files/novartis-life-handbook.pdf Note: Benefits and compensation may vary by country and are subject to local legal requirements, including provisions of collective bargaining agreements where applicable. A full overview of your compensation package, including any relevant collective bargaining agreement details applicable to your role based on your employment location and Novartis employer entity, will be communicated separately to you during the application process. Accessibility and accommodationNovartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or in order to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.
Why Novartis: Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients' lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? https://www.novartis.com/about/strategy/people-and-cultureBenefits and Rewards: Learn about all the ways we'll help you thrive personally and professionally.Read our handbook (PDF 30 MB)
Primary location salary range
CHF207,900.00 - CHF386,100.00
Division
Development
Business Unit
Development
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
Research & Development Development Switzerland
Job ID
REQ-10082953
Development Unit Head Patient Safety - Oncology
Apply to Job
Job ID
REQ-10082953
Development Unit Head Patient Safety - Oncology
Apply to Job
Novartis provides healthcare solutions that improve and extend people’s lives. We use science-based innovation to address some of society’s most challenging healthcare issues. We discover and develop breakthrough treatments and find new ways to deliver them to as many people as possible. Our company is focused on industry-leading divisions with innovation power and global scale: pharmaceuticals, eye care and generic medicines Novartis is headquartered in Basel, Switzerland. Novartis Group companies employ approximately 120,000 associates and its products are available in more than 180 countries around the world.