Portfolio Innovation Director - Global Clinical Operations

Portfolio Innovation Director - Global Clinical Operations

Full-Time 51000 - 155090 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive innovation in clinical trials using cutting-edge technologies and AI solutions.
  • Company: Join Novartis, a leader in reimagining medicine with a diverse and inclusive culture.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, flexible working, and comprehensive wellbeing resources.
  • Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on patient experiences and trial efficiency through innovative solutions.
  • Qualifications: Experience in clinical trials and a strong understanding of drug development processes.

The predicted salary is between 51000 - 155090 £ per year.

This role is based in London, UK. The role is also available in Dublin, Ireland. Please apply to the specific advertisement for this location. Relocation Support: Novartis is unable to offer relocation support; please only apply if our London office is accessible. Remote working for UK-based applicants can be considered, subject to eligibility criteria, which can be discussed at interview.

Shape the future of clinical trials through operational innovation that delivers measurable impact. As Portfolio Innovation Director - Global Clinical Operations (GCO), you will play a significant hands-on role in identifying, evaluating, and embedding cutting-edge technologies, services, or new business models — particularly AI-driven solutions — into clinical programs. This role is for someone scientifically curious about disease areas, patient pathways, and trial design, with an in-depth understanding of the clinical landscape, the drug development lifecycle and an innate drive to innovate.

Key Responsibilities

  • Identify and evaluate operational innovation opportunities across clinical programs, with a focus on accelerating trial recruitment, increasing patient access to trials and advancing innovative trial operations including AI-driven and technology-enabled solutions.
  • Critically assess opportunities by balancing value, feasibility, risk, and scalability, ensuring innovation decisions are grounded in operational reality and impact.
  • Integrate fit-for-purpose innovations into Operational Execution Plans aligned to program strategy as well as site and patient needs.
  • Drive assessment of solutions with stakeholders, providing risk evaluation and value-driven recommendations for adoption.
  • Engage cross-functional stakeholders to align on priorities, influence decision making, and drive execution of innovation strategies.
  • Proactively identify unmet needs within trials and translate them into actionable and value-driven innovation opportunities.
  • Partner with internal teams and external partners to source, assess, and enable scaling of innovative solutions across the portfolio.
  • Ensure Clinical Trial Teams are fully supported in the implementation of innovative solutions across clinical studies.

Essential Requirements

  • Significant hands-on experience delivering innovation and technology-led solutions within clinical trials.
  • Strong understanding of the clinical landscape, drug development lifecycle, and patient-centric trial design.
  • Proven experience identifying opportunities and driving adoption of innovative, including artificial intelligence-driven, solutions.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence stakeholders within a complex matrix organization.
  • Experience evaluating solutions across the lifecycle, including risk assessment and value-driven decision making.
  • Advanced knowledge of clinical development processes, regulatory requirements, and Good Clinical Practice standards.
  • Higher level qualification such as a Bachelors degree in Life Sciences or a related discipline; advanced degree advantageous.
  • Fluency in written and spoken English.

Benefits

At Novartis, we’re committed to reimagining medicine together - and rewarding the people who make it happen. 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. 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. You may be eligible for a company vehicle or a car allowance in accordance with the applicable local Novartis policies and guidelines. 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.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion / EEO: 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.

Skills Desired

  • Agility
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI), Artificial Intelligence Technologies
  • Budget Management
  • Clinical Development
  • Clinical Monitoring
  • Clinical Operations
  • Clinical Research
  • Clinical Trials Operations
  • Innovation
  • Innovative Solutions
  • Lifesciences
  • Resource Management (Organizational)
  • Technological Innovation

Portfolio Innovation Director - Global Clinical Operations employer: Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association

At Novartis, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, particularly for the role of Portfolio Innovation Director in our London office. Our commitment to innovation in clinical trials is matched by a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and creativity, offering employees ample opportunities for professional growth and development. With competitive benefits, flexible working arrangements, and a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, Novartis is dedicated to creating a rewarding environment where you can make a meaningful impact in healthcare.

Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association

Contact Details:

Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Portfolio Innovation Director - Global Clinical Operations

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We think you need these skills to ace Portfolio Innovation Director - Global Clinical Operations

Operational Innovation
AI-driven Solutions
Clinical Trial Design
Stakeholder Engagement
Cross-functional Leadership
Risk Assessment
Value-driven Decision Making

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in the pharmaceutical industry, it's crucial to highlight any relevant experience you have. Whether that's internships, lab work, or even related coursework, make sure to weave this into your CV and cover letter. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're applying for at Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association!

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How to prepare for a job interview at Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association

Understand the Science

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