Head of Neuromuscular Diseases, Translational Medicine

Executive Director – Head of Neuromuscular Diseases, Translational Medicine Location: San Diego, California, USA As the Head of Neuromuscular Diseases within Translational Medicine, you will serve as a senior scientific and strategic leader responsible for shaping and delivering the translational strategy for neuromuscular and neurogenetic therapeutic programs. You will provide expert guidance bridging research, early clinical development, and biomarker/experimental medicine innovation to advance assets from discovery through proof‑of‑concept and into full development. In addition, you will lead or integrate global, cross‑functional teams to design, implement, and execute cutting‑edge translational strategies, and act as an influential thought partner in neuromuscular disease biology, clinical development, and emerging therapeutic modalities. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Scientific Direction – Define and oversee the long‑term translational strategy for the Neuromuscular Pillar, ensuring scientific excellence and alignment with broader BR and TM organizational priorities. Senior Advisor and Thought Leader – Serve as a senior advisor and thought leader within neuromuscular disorders, leveraging deep specialty expertise to inform program design, biomarker strategy, and patient‑relevant endpoints. Program & Portfolio Leadership – Lead global translational teams across Phase I–IIa (“Discovery” through TDP), driving implementation of high‑quality development strategies in single or multiple neuromuscular indications, represent TM on global program teams (GPT) and decision boards, ensuring that neuromuscular programs meet quality, regulatory, and differentiation objectives. Translational & Clinical Development Excellence – Lead the design and execution of First‑in‑Human (FIH) and Phase IIa studies, working collaboratively with clinical, regulatory, biomarker, and profiling partners; lead the creation of clinical components of key documents such as Clinical Trial Protocols, Investigator’s Brochures, Clinical Study Reports, regulatory documents, etc., with high levels of quality and consistency. Leadership of People, Culture, and Matrix Teams – Serve as a culture champion, promoting empowerment, innovation, and collaboration across TM and broader BR organizations; mentor and develop scientific talent across translational and clinical functions. External Impact & Partnerships – Lead interactions with external stakeholders (regulatory authorities, key opinion leaders, data monitoring committees, advisory boards, etc.) and internal NVS stakeholders; contribute to opportunity assessments and due diligence for neuromuscular and adjacent therapeutic areas. Governance, Compliance & Documentation – Ensure compliance and high‑standard documentation across all stages of translational development. Essential Requirements MD and PhD required with clinical subspecialty training in neurological diseases with deep expertise in neuromuscular disorders and gene therapies. A minimum of 10-15 years of extensive experience in translational medicine, early clinical development, or experimental therapeutics. Demonstrated success leading complex global programs and cross‑functional scientific teams. Proven ability to shape development strategies, execute early clinical studies, and influence regulatory packages supporting differentiation. Experience working in pharmaceutical/biotech company strongly preferred. Desirable Requirements Direct people management experience. Compensation The salary for this position is expected to range between $288,400 and $535,600 per year. The final salary offered is determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors. Your compensation will include a performance‑based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards. Benefits US‑based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves. EEO Statement Novartis is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected group. #J-18808-Ljbffr Novartis Farmacéutica