Executive Director M&A Transactions

Executive Director, M&A Transactions

This role can be based in Cambridge MA, East Hannover New Jersey or Basel Switzerland. Please ensure you apply for the position in the correct location for you. Please note closing date for applications is 2 weeks from date of posting. Shape the future of Novartis through transformative deal-making. As Executive Director, M&A Transactions, you will play a critical role at the centre of our growth strategy—leading high-value acquisitions and divestments that unlock innovation and drive long-term impact. Partnering closely with senior leadership, you will navigate complex, high-stakes decisions, influence capital allocation, and deliver transactions that strengthen our global portfolio. This is a rare opportunity to operate at enterprise level and directly contribute to reimagining medicine for patients worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end execution of complex mergers and acquisitions transactions from strategy through closing
• Define deal strategies, governance plans, timelines, and engagement approaches with target companies
• Drive collaboration across legal, finance, tax, diligence, and commercial teams globally
• Oversee due diligence processes, ensuring rigorous evaluation of risks, value, and strategic fit
• Lead negotiation of transaction terms, balancing commercial value with long-term strategic priorities
• Prepare and present decision frameworks to executive leadership
• Ensure smooth transition from deal approval to integration, safeguarding value realization and strategic intent

Essential Requirements

• Extensive experience leading end-to-end mergers and acquisitions transactions across multiple deal types and regions
• Strong financial expertise, including valuation, financial modelling, and scenario planning
• Proven ability to align transactions with corporate strategy and long-term growth objectives
• Deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, competition law, and transaction governance processes
• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence complex, cross-functional teams at senior levels
• Exceptional communication skills, with experience engaging executive stakeholders
• Experience within the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry

Desirable Requirements

• Advanced degree in business, finance, or life sciences
• Medical or scientific background and experience is preferred

Benefits: Read our handbook to learn about all the ways we'll help you thrive personally and professionally: Novartis Life Handbook

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve.

Accessibility and accommodation: Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or in order to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to View email address on click.appcast.io and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

Skills Desired

Alliance Management, Behavioral Economics, Business Development, Business Partnering, Coaching, Customer Experience, Due Diligence, Education, E-Learning, Emergency Management, Evaluation, Investment Banking, Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), Negotiation Skills, Product Demonstration (Demo), Promotion Marketing, Sales, Scouting, Search, Selling Skills, Senior Management, Strategic Partnerships, Transactions, Wireless Communication