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- Tasks: Manage quality oversight for external service providers in global clinical trials.
- Company: Join Novartis, a leader in global medicines impacting millions.
- Benefits: Flexible contractor role with opportunities to gain new skills.
- Other info: Collaborative environment focused on innovation and patient care.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in healthcare while working with passionate professionals.
- Qualifications: 12+ years in pharmaceutical development and a relevant degree required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
This is a temporary contractor opportunity at Novartis. Novartis touches the lives of a tenth of the world’s population. Every role here, regardless of contract type, makes an impact on human life!
Novartis partners with external managed service provider Magnit Global to offer engaging temporary contractor opportunities like this, to those who are looking for flexibility in their career while gaining new skills and experiences providing services to an inclusive global medicines company.
As our AD External Service Provider QA, you will have the opportunity to manage quality oversight for Development (Clinical, PV, GLP) external service providers for Development. You will play a pivotal role in managing external service providers supporting Global Clinical Trials in R&D Quality, ensuring that our partners meet the highest standards of excellence.
Key Responsibilities- Responsible for review and approval of External Service Providers (ESPs) qualification for global clinical trials and Medical affairs studies (RCs, PASS, NIS etc).
- Responsible for negotiation and execution Quality Assurance Agreements (QAA) / quality terms with ESPs.
- Review and approval of external service provider Quality Risk Assessments (QRAs) to enable identification and evaluation of metrics, risks, trends, and potential quality and performance issues with the ESP in a proactive manner. Ensure communication and support mitigation of actions for potential risks.
- Responsible for review and approval of quality issues related to ESPs and ensure appropriate escalation of major and critical issues. Support assessment of serious breach and reporting to health authorities.
- Collaboration with business partners such as Global Medical Affairs, Vendor Partnership and Governance, Study Startup Organisation, Country Development Quality and Procurement to ensure their involvement in the risk evaluation and timely communication to the business and follow-up on required actions.
- Review quality metrics, monitoring and reporting including follow-up with line functions and escalation.
- Ensure inspection readiness of local ESP related activities and support for internal and external audits and health authority (HA) inspections pertaining to local ESP management.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (GCP, GLP, GVP, GMP) and continuous improvement of quality relevant processes within area of responsibility.
12+ years’ experience in pharmaceutical development and excellent knowledge of the quality management system, clinical operations processes and vendor management related activities is preferred.
EducationMinimum a bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Pharmacy or Medicine, or other related discipline required.
LanguagesFluent English (both spoken & written).
Workload7 hours per day.
Role typeOnsite.
Required start date1 June 2026.
Contract18 months.
Why NovartisHelping 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?
EEO StatementThe Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.
AccommodationIf you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Magnit at directsourceproteam@prounlimited.com.
Associate Director (AD), External Service Provider Quality Assurance (ESPQA) employer: WillHire
Contact Detail:
WillHire Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director (AD), External Service Provider Quality Assurance (ESPQA)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the pharmaceutical industry, especially those who have experience with quality assurance. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of quality management systems and clinical operations. We recommend practising common interview questions related to your role, so you can showcase your expertise confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the position. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Associate Director role! We’re all about making connections, and applying directly can help us see your application faster. Let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director (AD), External Service Provider Quality Assurance (ESPQA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Associate Director role. Highlight your experience in quality assurance and vendor management, as these are key for this position. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about quality assurance in clinical trials and how your skills can contribute to Novartis. Keep it engaging and relevant to the role – we love a good story!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When filling out your application, be sure to showcase your 12+ years of experience in pharmaceutical development. Mention specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your expertise in managing external service providers and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at WillHire
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of quality management systems and clinical operations processes. Familiarise yourself with the specific responsibilities of the Associate Director role, especially around managing external service providers and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
✨Showcase Your Experience
With 12+ years in pharmaceutical development, be ready to discuss your past experiences in detail. Prepare examples that highlight your negotiation skills, risk assessment capabilities, and how you've handled quality issues in previous roles. This will demonstrate your fit for the position.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare insightful questions about Novartis' approach to quality assurance and their collaboration with external service providers. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their mission of improving patient lives.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of situations where you had to manage risks or resolve quality issues, and be prepared to explain your thought process and the outcomes. This will showcase your critical thinking and decision-making abilities.