Associate Director, Delivery Lead

Ready to shape the future of Biomedical Research through cutting-edge AI and compute innovation? As a Delivery Lead in the Compute & AI Delivery Segment, you will drive the delivery and adoption of new and significantly enhanced informatics capabilities for Biomedical Research, while leading a high-performing, cross-functional matrix team. Delivery is achieved through predictable, high-quality and time-bound initiatives aligned to enterprise priorities and architecture.

Location:

Basel, Switzerland. This role is based in Basel, Switzerland. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

• You are accountable and own the outcomes of the High-Performance Compute, Machine Learning Operations and AI capabilities, including establishing an AI Agent ecosystem, together with your delivery segment, by translating domain needs into initiative proposals and the delivery of such.
• Enable and expand Agent Mesh and Compute capabilities for Biomedical Research, including establishing the vision, value proposition, and strategic roadmap in alignment with business priorities and organisational objectives.
• Own the creation, delivery, and lifecycle transition of domain-specific software and assigned initiatives, including prioritisation, planning, supplier selection, execution, rollout/scaling, and transition to operations.
• Drive predictable planning and execution across initiatives within scope, time, and budget, and in alignment with business stakeholders, adjacent initiatives, and Data & Digital functions.
• Provide delivery‑segment prioritisation and investment input to support strategic decisions and focus on high‑value initiatives.
• Lead cross‑functional matrix teams (internal/external), coordinate resources, define responsibilities, and ensure aligned execution across all delivery functions and vendor interfaces.
• Proactively manage expectations and elevate issues, risks, or dependencies appropriately, and act as the primary delivery interface to ensure orchestration and manage trade‑offs across initiatives.
• Communicate progress, challenges, successes, and outcomes clearly to stakeholders and the wider organisation.
• Ensure all initiatives deliverables align with architectural standards, security guidelines, and our initiative governance model.
• Establish and maintain close relationships with other functions in Data & Digital as well as in corporate IT to collaborate on the delivery and improvement of corporate‑owned platforms that serve Biomedical Research needs.

• Proven track record of delivering complex initiatives in the Agentic AI, Machine Learning Operations and/or High‑Performance Compute domain, with 5+ years of experience delivering artificial intelligence and high‑performance compute platforms.
• Strong project management capabilities, especially prioritisation, planning, execution, communication, and risk management.
• Experience leading cross‑functional matrix teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage diverse stakeholder groups, with strong communication skills and the ability to serve as a trusted delivery partner.
• Strong background with AI Agents, Agentic platforms, Machine Learning Operations and High‑Performance Compute platforms.
• Broad and deep expertise in scientific software, data management, and AI‑enabled digital capabilities.
• Skilled in structured problem‑solving, experimentation, and modern delivery practices.
• Ability to drive urgency, accountability, and high‑performance delivery behaviors.

• Formal training in project management methodologies such as Project Management Professional or Certified Scrum Master.
• Experience working within pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or scientific research environments.

Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role: 122,500 CHF to 227,500 CHF. The 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…