Project Manager (ext.)

About

Temporary contractor opportunity at Novartis. The role is within Data & Digital (D&D), Project & Program Management team, focusing on managing the delivery of Artificial Intelligence (AI) projects for drug discovery, programs and strategic initiatives.

Major Accountabilities

• Drive the end‑to‑end lifecycle and delivery of AI projects and programs, from ideation and planning to deployment and post‑launch evaluation of utilization and impact.
• Streamline the project delivery approach while comprehensively managing each project and project team in a dynamic environment that embraces change focusing on enablement of BR scientists.
• Develop and maintain AI project & program roadmaps aligned with organizational priorities and emerging AI trends.
• Serve as a key point of contact for AI projects and programs, providing regular updates to stakeholders and management.
• Ensure adherence to the AI Project Playbook as the approach to managing AI projects and programs with varying degrees of complexity, risk and value to stakeholder.
• Ensure AI solutions adhere to ethical standards, data privacy regulations, and responsible AI practices that meet Novartis requirements.
• Serve as a change agent in deployment of adaptive project management approach and agile project management practices and tools across the organization.
• Actively participate in the internal project management community, share knowledge and experience with fellow program and project managers, mentor junior project management staff.
• Ensure adherence to Novartis global Information Security and Quality standards and policies for all products/services.
• If applicable, ensure Regulatory Compliance (e.g., GLP & GCP) standards and policies for GxP products/services.

Experience Requirements (Core Skills and Capabilities)

• Strong track record of successful delivery of programs and projects in a pharmaceutical environment.
• Solid knowledge of the drug discovery process in biotech and pharma R&D.
• 5+ years of experience in project and program management.
• 1+ years in AI/ML or data‑driven environments, with solid experience working with AI tools, applications, development lifecycles.
• Proficiency in the use of project execution software (Jira, MS Planner, MS Project, etc.).
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage a project team of technical, scientific and business associates.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

Education and Qualification Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree required, with a focus on Technology or Life Sciences preferred. Candidates with a background in Biology or Chemistry will be preferred.
• Formal training in project management methodologies (e.g., PMP, PMI‑ACP, Certified Scrum Master, etc.).
• Formal training in AI and machine learning (ML) concepts, strategies and tools.
• Professional project management certification (PMP, CSM) and AI certification (CPMAI) strongly preferred.
• Fluent English language skills.

Workload

• 100%

Role Type

• Onsite

Required Start Date

• 4 May 2026

Contract

• Until 31 Dec 2026

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?

EEO Statement

The 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.

Accommodation

If 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.