Site MS&T Head - Drug Substance (Small Molecule)

About the role

The Site MS&T Head - Small Molecule Drug Substance is an Associate Director level role at Novartis in Morrisville, North Carolina. You will lead the scientific and technical strategy of the manufacturing site, shaping manufacturing excellence, driving innovation and ensuring robust product stewardship across the full product lifecycle. The role leads a Manufacturing Science & Technology DS organization and partners across site functions and global teams.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the site MS&T DS organization, setting vision, priorities and technical strategy aligned with site objectives.
• Ensure end-to-end product stewardship and technical oversight throughout the commercial product lifecycle.
• Drive process robustness, continuous improvement and manufacturing excellence.
• Oversee technical changes, validation programs and compliance activities to maintain inspection readiness.
• Lead technology transfers, product launches and scale-up activities.
• Partner with site and global teams to resolve technical challenges and strengthen process capability.
• Develop technical talent, succession plans and knowledge-sharing programs.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in Science, Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Technology or an equivalent scientific discipline preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in manufacturing; additional specialist experience (e.g., pharmaceutical formulation, process development, manufacturing technology) preferred.
• Proven experience driving quality and compliance in an organization.
• Demonstrated leadership experience building and leading technical and scientific teams.
• Desirable: diverse pharmaceutical experience, specifically small molecule (API/Drug Substance/Oligonucleotide).

Required skills

• Strong working knowledge of applied statistics, quality systems and regulatory requirements across multiple health authorities.
• Fundamental understanding of standard pharmaceutical analytical testing.
• Knowledge of manufacturing production, manufacturing technologies, process control, operational excellence, quality and regulatory compliance, and technology transfer.

What we offer

• Expected salary range of $138,600 to $257,400 per year, depending on skills and experience, with periodic review after joining.
• Performance-based cash incentive and possible eligibility for annual equity awards.
• Health, life and disability benefits, 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a time-off package including vacation, personal days and holidays.