Business Operations Lead, Discovery Sciences

The Discovery Sciences (DSc) department at Novartis Biomedical Research (BR) merges groundbreaking technical capabilities with deep scientific expertise to deliver bold innovations at the forefront of science.

As a member of the DSc Operations Team, you will serve as a critical resource to manage business operations that enable the development of novel drug targets and new therapeutics.

• Execute and optimize the financial plan in partnership with Finance and other support functions, including ordering and financial administration of scientific strategy.
• Act as a subject‑matter expert on tools and processes that execute the business of research operations, bringing strong financial acumen.
• Resolve operational issues, providing enablement for DSc scientists in areas such as financial data, vendor management, research collaborations, and people data; collaborate with local and global resources to remediate and prevent issues.
• Deliver simplicity from complexity by designing reports and managing data to provide DSc leaders with clean, accessible, and timely information on budgets, lab resources, people, and compliance.
• Lead initiatives to launch new processes or programs that resolve operational data issues and create value.
• Work effectively within a matrix organization—establish and maintain relationships with DSc researchers,   Operations community, and third‑party vendors to align and execute departmental and   objectives.
• Manage the planning, ordering, delivery, and realization of lab technologies, including complex, integrated equipment systems.
• Design operational programs that support department priorities, coordinating cross‑functionally with user groups and support functions.

• B.S. or M.S. in a scientific or management discipline with 3+ years in a business or lab operations capacity; or 5+ years in a biology or chemistry research environment with operational accountabilities.
• Strong problem‑solving, collaboration, and organizational skills with a proven attentiveness to detail.
• Solution‑oriented mindset with the ability to exercise independent discretion and judgment in a global, highly matrixed environment.
• User‑centric mentality and experience supporting others, with a track record of building relationships and engaging peers.
• Advanced knowledge of enterprise‑level accounting, procurement, and collaboration software.
• Project‑management, operational excellence, and design‑thinking skills; experience initiating and leading assignments with measurable impact.

• Demonstrated ability to optimize business processes using AI tools.
• Creativity and willingness to infuse innovation into operational tasks.

Salary range: $85,400–$158,600 per year, adjusted for relevant skills and experience and reviewed upon joining. Includes performance‑based cash incentive and, depending on the role level, eligibility for annual equity awards.

US‑based eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package covering health, life, disability, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a generous time‑off policy that includes vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves.

For more information about culture, rewards, and benefits, visit the Novartis benefits portal.