Executive Director, Region Europe Communications & Patient Advocacy

Salary Range: CHF - CHF

Executive Director, Region Europe Communications & Patient Advocacy

Location:

Basel, Switzerland

Hybrid work.

Shape the voice and impact of Communications & Patient Advocacy across Europe at a pivotal moment for healthcare. As Executive Director, you will partner closely with the Regional President to drive strategic alignment, elevate performance, and ensure consistent, high‑quality execution across markets. This is a unique opportunity to lead and inspire a diverse regional network, influence business‑critical decisions, and translate global strategies into meaningful outcomes that strengthen reputation and deliver impact for patients and communities.

• Serve as strategic Communications & Patient Advocacy partner to the Regional President and Leadership Team
• Drive performance, accountability, and execution quality across regional Communications & Patient Advocacy teams
• Translate global strategies into clear regional priorities and ensure consistent country‑level execution
• Lead and coach country heads to strengthen capability, impact, and business acumen
• Enable effective executive communications aligned with global narratives and enterprise priorities
• Foster collaboration and best practice sharing across a high‑performing regional network
• Oversee media relations, reputation management, and crisis response across priority markets
• Optimize regional resources and budgets to focus investment on highest‑impact activities
• Drive AI upskilling and AI enablement of workflows within C&PtA country teams

• Extensive experience in communications, patient advocacy, or corporate affairs within a global, matrixed organization
• Proven track record partnering with senior commercial or general management leaders at executive level
• Strong experience leading multi‑country teams with accountability for performance and delivery
• Expertise in media relations, reputation management, and crisis or issues management
• Experience working with patient organizations and advocacy groups in regulated healthcare environments
• Excellent leadership, influencing, and coaching skills across diverse, matrixed teams
• Deep understanding of healthcare systems, policy, and access dynamics across multiple geographies
• Ability to translate strategy into execution and drive measurable business impact
• AI fluency in day‑to‑day execution and efficiency, as well as understanding of AI impact on external landscape
• Degree required; advanced degree preferred (Public Policy, International Relations, Political Science, Communications, or related field)

At Novartis, we’re committed to reimagining medicine together - and rewarding the people who make it happen.

Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role: 159,600 CHF to 296,400 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 performance‑based bonus depending on certain performance parameters.

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.

Long‑term equity awards granted at group level may also be part of your package. Further details will be provided during the application process.

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:

Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams…