Clinical Operations Executive Director, EMEA Cluster

£ - £

#LI-Hybrid

Internal

Job Title:

SSO Cluster Head

Primary

Location:

London, United Kingdom (for candidates residing within 50 miles of the office)

Other Locations:
Remote, United Kingdom (UK based candidates living more than 50 miles from the office)

Relocation Support:
This role is based in London, United Kingdom. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support: please only apply if accessible.

Imagine leading the delivery of clinical trials that have the potential to transform patients' lives on a global scale. As a Study & Site Operations (SSO) Cluster Head at Novartis, you will play a pivotal leadership role shaping Study & Site Operations strategy, driving operational excellence, and enabling the successful execution of complex clinical development programmes. Working across countries, functions, and stakeholders, you will empower high-performing teams, accelerate innovation in trial delivery, and ensure the generation of high-quality data that supports the development of future medicines.

This is an exciting opportunity to influence strategic decisions, develop exceptional talent, and make a meaningful impact on healthcare worldwide.

• Lead Study & Site Operations strategy to achieve clinical trial delivery, quality, and business objectives.
• Drive innovative approaches to trial planning, execution, and patient engagement across the cluster.
• Oversee allocation, start-up, recruitment, and delivery of Phase I to IV clinical studies.
• Ensure delivery against enrolment, timeline, budget, and quality commitments across all assigned trials.
• Champion compliance with global regulations, ethical standards, and Novartis operating procedures.
• Build, develop, and retain high-performing leaders while driving succession and talent strategies.
• Manage cluster resources, budgets, and productivity initiatives to maximise operational performance.

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or a related scientific discipline.
• Extensive experience leading clinical trial planning, execution, and monitoring activities within a global clinical research environment.
• Demonstrated success leading, developing, and coaching managers and high-performing teams across complex organisations.
• Deep understanding of clinical drug development and end-to-end trial execution.
• Expert knowledge of Good Clinical Practice, International Council for Harmonisation guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong strategic leadership, stakeholder management, and influencing skills across complex organisations.

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

Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role: £104,790 to £194,610

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.

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…