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- Tasks: Lead the UK legal team, shaping strategies and providing expert legal counsel.
- Company: Join Novartis, a global leader in healthcare committed to inclusivity and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work options, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on healthcare while leading a passionate team in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with significant experience in the pharmaceutical industry and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values collaboration and creativity.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
This job is with Novartis, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community.
Summary
Location: London, UK
Closing date for applications: Monday 30th June 2025
Are you a skilled legal leader ready to shape the future of healthcare? Novartis is looking for a UK Country Legal Head to guide our business through the complex legal landscape for medicines while inspiring and leading our exceptional legal team. In this critical role, you'll drive strategy across legal matters—from commercial support and market access to intellectual property and litigation—collaborating with our UK Leadership Team to unlock business opportunities and mitigate risks. With a chance to make an impact both internally and externally, including shaping the UK healthcare environment, this is your opportunity to lead with purpose and passion. Join us and help reimagine medicine for millions!
About the Role
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the Legal team in UK, and the Legal Head in Ireland, managing and overseeing the development of the team members.
- Develop and implement the legal strategy within International UK and Ireland and contribute to the development of the organization's business strategy.
- Drive the delivery of legal support in alignment with the priorities of the local and international Novartis business.
- Provide legal leadership on issues by providing pro-active, in-depth, business focused advice and counsel.
- Counsel senior executives and business teams on complex and sensitive legal and business issues, interact with other functions within Novartis to support training and counsel non-Legal associates, and lead or contribute to both formal and informal teams in provision of legal expertise.
- Anticipate and maintain up-to-date knowledge of current laws relevant to own substantive area to provide strategic advice and foster compliance.
- Limit country litigation risk exposure, including risk derived from clinical issues, working closely with executives across Country, Regional, and Global units.
- Managing the legal budget and instruct external legal counsel, where needed.
- Act as Country Legal Head and be part of the UK Leadership Team, as well as the European Legal Leadership Team.
Essential Requirements:
- Qualified to practice law in the UK
- Significant post qualification experience with a proven track record, preferably in-house and, within the pharmaceutical industry
- Strong people management experience - a proven record of developing legal talent.
- Significant expertise of navigating the legal framework governing the pharmaceutical industry, including market access and regulatory regimes.
- Proven ability to lead complex projects and collaborate within and across cross-functional teams and business units, in a matrixed environment
- Strong business acumen
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken)
Desirable Requirements:
- Experience or training at a top law firm as well as having worked with or in different countries is a plus
Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve.
Why Novartis: Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients' lives. Ready to create a brighter future together?
Benefits and Rewards: Read our handbook to learn about all the ways we'll help you thrive personally and professionally.
Contact Detail:
Novartis Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land UK Country Legal Head
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Novartis' mission and values. Understanding their commitment to healthcare innovation and inclusivity will help you align your discussions during interviews, showcasing how your legal expertise can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Novartis, especially those in legal roles. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest developments in pharmaceutical law and regulations in the UK. Being able to discuss recent changes or challenges in the industry will demonstrate your proactive approach and deep understanding of the legal landscape.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in developing legal talent. Novartis values strong people management, so be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and fostered growth in others.
We think you need these skills to ace UK Country Legal Head
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the UK Country Legal Head position at Novartis. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and essential requirements, as this will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your qualifications and experiences that align with the role. Emphasise your legal expertise, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, and any leadership roles you've held. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the company. Highlight your understanding of the legal landscape in healthcare and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Be sure to mention your people management experience and ability to lead complex projects.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your documents. Check for grammatical errors, clarity, and overall presentation. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a legal role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Novartis
✨Understand the Legal Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current laws and regulations governing the pharmaceutical industry in the UK. Be prepared to discuss how these laws impact Novartis and the broader healthcare environment.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Highlight your experience in managing and developing legal teams. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully led complex projects and collaborated across different business units.
✨Demonstrate Business Acumen
Prepare to discuss how legal strategies can align with business objectives. Think about ways you can contribute to Novartis' overall business strategy while mitigating legal risks.
✨Engage with the Company Culture
Research Novartis' commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Be ready to share how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to fostering an inclusive work environment.
