Summary

Internal job title: SSO Strategy & Operations Cluster Head

Primary Location: Barcelona, Spain

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

Imagine helping shape the future of clinical trial delivery across an entire cluster. As the Strategy & Operations Cluster Head, you will be at the centre of driving strategic execution, operational excellence, innovation, and transformation across Study & Site Operations (SSO). Partnering with senior leaders across local and hub teams, you will translate strategy into action, lead high-impact initiatives, and deliver meaningful improvements that enhance productivity, performance, and the execution of clinical development programmes. This is an exciting opportunity to influence how Novartis operates, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and help bring innovative medicines to patients faster.

About The Role

Key Responsibilities

• Translate hub strategies into actionable plans that drive cluster performance and business outcomes.




• Lead strategic initiatives that enhance operational excellence, productivity, and clinical trial execution across the cluster.
• Identify cluster opportunities, risks, and challenges, implementing solutions that support long-term success.
• Drive innovation, transformation, and change management initiatives across Study & Site Operations.
• Oversee cluster communication and information management strategies to strengthen stakeholder alignment.
• Partner with senior leaders to optimise resource planning, portfolio execution, and operational effectiveness.
• Leverage data, market insights, and industry trends to inform strategic decisions and continuous improvement.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience in pharmaceutical development, clinical research, or clinical trial delivery within a complex integral environment.
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📌 Strategy and Operations Associate Director, EMEA Cluster (Barcelona)
🏢 Novartis
📍 Barcelona