Director, Portfolio & Product Strategy, NS

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Director, Portfolio & Product Strategy, NS

Company: Novartis

Location: East Hanover, New Jersey, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations Strategy & Planning (GTM Focus)

Date Posted: May 18, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the strategic direction and long-term growth of a therapeutic area (TA) by developing comprehensive portfolio and pipeline strategies.

• Lead cross-functional efforts to ensure competitive readiness, anticipating market changes and competitor actions.

• Provide critical commercial input for early-stage pipeline assets and Life Cycle Management (LCM) initiatives.

• Support Business Development & Licensing (BD&L) evaluations with strategic market insights and commercial viability assessments.

• Facilitate the seamless transition of late-stage pipeline assets from development to commercialization, ensuring robust launch preparation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits at the intersection of commercial strategy, product development, and market intelligence. It requires a strong understanding of the pharmaceutical lifecycle, competitive landscaping, and strategic planning within a highly regulated environment. The "NS" likely refers to a specific business unit or therapeutic area within Novartis, requiring specialized knowledge.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute forward-looking competitive readiness plans, encompassing strategy, tactical execution, and scenario planning, informed by robust competitive intelligence (CI) deliverables.

• Collaborate with TA Heads, General Managers (GMs), and the ED of Portfolio & Pipeline Strategy to anticipate and proactively address external market shifts, competitor launches, and strategic moves in a compliant manner.

• Provide strategic commercial input to S&G, Development, and BioMedical Research teams to maximize the commercial viability and launch value of assets, including LCM planning for new indications, formulations, and labels.

• Support the development of Integrated Evidence Plans (IEPs) and LCM plans for early pipeline assets.

• Partner with US BD&L and US Market Access to contribute country-level insights for BD&L evaluations, including Target Product Profile (TPP) development, stakeholder research, and preparation for Decision Committee/Investment Management Board (DC/IMB) meetings.

• Support strategic evaluations and initiatives that shape DA (Disease Area) and TA strategies, contributing to TAL (Therapeutic Area Leadership) discussions on competitive levers, portfolio gaps, and emerging unmet needs.

• Lead or support the transition of late-stage pipeline assets from S&G to US Commercial teams at least 6 months prior to First Data Publication (FDP), contributing to the FDP submission package and commercial strategy.

• Represent US Commercial needs at critical forums such as Global Project Teams (GPT) until full IPST (Integrated Project Strategy Team) formation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a deep engagement with the entire product lifecycle, from early R&D input to commercial launch readiness. The emphasis on "competitive readiness" and "scenario planning" indicates a proactive, forward-thinking approach to market dynamics. The role requires strong analytical capabilities and the ability to synthesize complex information into actionable strategies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field is required.

Experience:

• Required:

  • Minimum of 8 years of commercial experience within the pharmaceutical, biotech, healthcare, or consulting sectors.
  • Experience must include at least two different types of cross-functional roles/experiences (e.g., sales, marketing, strategy, market access, medical affairs).
  • Recent US Market commercialization experience, including launch and various product lifecycle stages, or General Manager experience in other countries.
  • Proven experience partnering with Medical Affairs and/or Development teams to inform strategic decisions.
  • Demonstrated ability to work autonomously in a dynamic environment, applying creative problem-solving skills and deep industry knowledge.
  • Possession of a strong portfolio approach, with a track record of uncovering and implementing innovative strategies in competitive marketplaces.
  • Capable of acting as a proactive leader and custodian for consistent competitive readiness excellence.

• Desirable:

  • Experience in multiple therapeutic areas is preferred, suggesting a broad understanding of the pharmaceutical landscape.
  • Experience with Market Access is a plus, underscoring the importance of understanding payer dynamics.
  • Proven ability to influence, communicate effectively, and engage confidently with senior leadership (one to two levels above).

Required Skills:

• Strategic Planning & Portfolio Management

• Competitive Intelligence & Analysis

• Cross-functional Collaboration & Leadership

• Pharmaceutical Commercialization & Lifecycle Management (LCM)

• Business Development & Licensing (BD&L) Support

• Market Access & Payer Dynamics Understanding

• Financial Acumen & ROI Analysis

• Advanced Communication & Influencing Skills

• Scenario Planning & Risk Management

Preferred Skills:

• Therapeutic Area Specialization (multiple preferred)

• Launch Excellence Planning & Execution

• Integrated Evidence Planning (IEP)

• Stakeholder Management & Engagement

• Advanced Analytics & Data Interpretation

• Change Management & Adaptability

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for diverse cross-functional experience and US commercialization is critical. The "portfolio approach" suggests a need for individuals who can see the interconnectedness of assets and market opportunities, not just individual products. The emphasis on influencing senior leaders is key for a Director-level role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated ability to develop and present comprehensive portfolio strategies that align with long-term therapeutic area goals and enterprise objectives.

• Case studies showcasing successful contributions to product lifecycle management, including new indications, formulations, or label expansions, with clear articulation of commercial impact.

• Examples of strategic input provided for early-stage pipeline assets, illustrating an understanding of TPP development and commercial viability assessment.

• Documentation of contributions to BD&L evaluations, detailing market analysis, stakeholder research, and support for critical decision-making processes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow design and optimization for competitive intelligence gathering and scenario planning processes.

• Implementation of strategies for integrating commercial insights into R&D and development decision-making forums.

• Measurement and analysis of the impact of portfolio strategies on long-term commercial viability and growth.

• Documentation of cross-functional collaboration processes, particularly between commercial, medical, development, and market access teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio is essential to demonstrate strategic thinking, cross-functional leadership, and impact on product commercialization. Candidates should be prepared to showcase how they've translated complex market data and competitive insights into actionable strategies that drive growth and mitigate risk. The focus is on strategic output and impact, not just operational execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The anticipated salary range for this position is $185,500.00 to $344,500.00 per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness: Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company contribution and match.

• Performance & Equity: Performance-based Cash Incentive and eligibility for Annual Equity Awards, reflecting the strategic importance and level of the role.

• Time Off: Generous Time Off package including Vacation, Personal Days, and Holidays.

• Additional Resources: Access to a detailed "Novartis Life Handbook" for further information on culture, rewards, and benefits.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are estimated at 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time Director-level position. However, given the strategic and dynamic nature of the role, flexibility and extended hours may be required to meet project deadlines and market demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is substantial, reflecting the seniority and strategic impact of a Director role at a major pharmaceutical company like Novartis. The inclusion of both cash incentives and equity awards is common for senior positions, aligning individual performance with company success. The benefits package is comprehensive, typical for large corporations in the pharmaceutical sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology. Novartis operates at the forefront of medical innovation, developing and marketing a wide range of therapies across various disease areas. This industry is characterized by rigorous scientific research, complex regulatory pathways, long product development cycles, and intense global competition.

Company Size: Novartis is a large, global enterprise, typically employing tens of thousands of individuals worldwide. This scale offers significant resources, opportunities for diverse career paths, and exposure to global markets and teams. For operations professionals, this means established processes, robust infrastructure, and a structured environment for career development.

Founded: Novartis was formed in 1996 through the merger of Ciba-Geigy and Sandoz, bringing together a rich history of scientific discovery and pharmaceutical innovation. This legacy emphasizes a commitment to cutting-edge research, patient well-being, and sustainable growth.

Team Structure:

• The role likely sits within a Therapeutic Area (TA) Commercial Strategy or Portfolio Management function, reporting to a senior leader (e.g., ED, Portfolio & Pipeline Strategy, TA Head, or GM).

• The team comprises individuals with diverse expertise in commercial strategy, market analysis, competitive intelligence, and lifecycle management.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on leveraging robust competitive intelligence, market data, and financial analysis to inform strategic decisions.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Processes designed to ensure alignment and buy-in from diverse stakeholder groups across the organization.

• Strategic Planning Frameworks: Utilization of established frameworks for scenario planning, competitive analysis, and long-term portfolio development.

• Agile Adaptation: A need to adapt strategies quickly in response to evolving market dynamics and competitive landscapes.

Company Website: https://www.novartis.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: As a global pharmaceutical leader, Novartis fosters a culture of innovation, scientific rigor, and patient focus. The scale of the organization implies structured processes and opportunities for specialization, while the emphasis on cross-functional collaboration is critical for success in a complex industry.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Director, Portfolio & Product Strategy. This is a senior leadership role focused on strategic planning and portfolio management rather than direct operational execution. It requires a blend of commercial acumen, strategic foresight, and the ability to influence decision-making at high levels. The scope involves long-term strategic vision (10+ year horizon) and cross-functional leadership.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a senior executive within the Therapeutic Area (e.g., ED, Portfolio & Pipeline Strategy, TA Head, or GM). This direct line to senior leadership signifies high visibility and influence. The Director will likely lead initiatives and matrix-manage project teams rather than directly supervising a large operational group.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is significant, directly influencing the long-term commercial success and sustainability of a therapeutic area. By shaping the portfolio strategy, identifying growth opportunities, and ensuring competitive readiness, the Director plays a crucial role in maximizing revenue generation, patient access, and the overall market position of Novartis's therapeutic offerings. This role is pivotal in guiding investment decisions for R&D and commercialization efforts.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential progression to higher executive roles within Commercial Strategy, Portfolio Management, or Business Unit leadership (e.g., VP, Global Head of Strategy).

• Therapeutic Area Specialization: Deepening expertise within a specific therapeutic area, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.

• Global Exposure: Opportunities to engage with global teams and contribute to international strategic initiatives, potentially leading to roles with broader geographic scope.

• Strategic Project Leadership: Leading high-impact strategic projects, such as major portfolio reviews, market entry strategies, or organizational transformations.

• Talent Development: Mentoring and developing junior team members within the strategy and commercial functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a strategic leadership position designed for individuals with a strong commercial background and a proven ability to shape long-term business direction. Growth opportunities are geared towards executive leadership within the pharmaceutical industry, emphasizing strategic impact and broad organizational influence.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site. The role is based in East Hanover, New Jersey, indicating a requirement for regular presence at the Novartis campus. This environment is typical for large pharmaceutical companies, offering a dedicated workspace within a corporate setting.

Office Location(s): East Hanover, New Jersey, United States. This location is a significant hub for Novartis in the US, likely housing R&D, commercial, and administrative functions. It offers access to a strong talent pool within the New Jersey pharmaceutical corridor.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The East Hanover campus likely provides modern office facilities designed to foster collaboration, including meeting rooms, project spaces, and common areas.

• Access to Resources: Employees will have access to internal company resources, including data analytics platforms, market research databases, and communication tools essential for strategic analysis.

• Cross-Functional Interaction: The on-site nature facilitates direct and frequent interaction with colleagues from various departments (R&D, Medical, Marketing, Market Access, BD&L), crucial for this role's collaborative demands.

Work Schedule: While the standard is 40 hours/week, the demands of strategic leadership, particularly in a competitive and fast-paced industry like pharmaceuticals, often require flexibility. This may involve working beyond standard hours, especially during critical project phases, launch preparations, or when responding to urgent market developments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in East Hanover suggests a structured corporate environment where in-person collaboration and access to company resources are prioritized. This setup is typical for senior roles requiring deep engagement with internal teams and strategic planning processes.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will likely conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Hiring Manager (e.g., ED, Portfolio & Pipeline Strategy) to delve into specific experience, strategic thinking, and understanding of the pharmaceutical market.

• Cross-Functional Panel Interview: Interviews with key stakeholders from relevant departments (e.g., Medical Affairs, Development, Marketing, Market Access, BD&L) to assess collaboration skills and ability to influence diverse teams.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present on a strategic topic, analyze a hypothetical portfolio challenge, or walk through a past project demonstrating their strategic planning and execution capabilities. This is where portfolio elements become critical.

• Senior Leadership Interview: A final interview with a senior executive (e.g., TA Head, GM) to evaluate strategic vision, leadership potential, and overall fit for the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Strategic Impact Focus: Showcase projects where your strategic input demonstrably influenced product development, LCM, launch strategy, or BD&L decisions. Quantify impact using metrics where possible (e.g., projected revenue, market share gains, improved commercial viability).

• Process & Methodology Clarity: Clearly articulate the strategic frameworks, analytical methods, and cross-functional processes you employed. For example, how did you gather and synthesize competitive intelligence? How did you build consensus for your recommendations?

• LCM & Pipeline Examples: Include specific examples of your contributions to Life Cycle Management plans and early pipeline asset evaluations, illustrating your understanding of TPPs, market shaping, and commercial viability.

• Competitive Readiness Demonstration: Prepare examples of how you've contributed to competitive readiness plans, including scenario planning and proactive strategy development.

• Conciseness and Clarity: Present your portfolio in a structured, easy-to-understand format. Focus on the most impactful projects relevant to the Director, Portfolio & Product Strategy role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Strategic Scenario Analysis: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a strategic challenge, such as evaluating a new asset for acquisition, planning a launch in a competitive market, or addressing a declining market share for an in-line product.

• Competitive Landscape Discussion: Articulate your understanding of current and future competitive dynamics in key therapeutic areas relevant to Novartis.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration Scenarios: Discuss how you would navigate disagreements or drive alignment among diverse teams with competing priorities (e.g., R&D vs. Commercial).

• LCM Strategy Articulation: Be ready to discuss best practices for LCM planning and how to maximize value from existing products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh strategic thinking, cross-functional influence, and the ability to translate complex market dynamics into actionable commercial strategies. A well-curated portfolio demonstrating past success in these areas is essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM Systems: While not directly managing a sales team, understanding and leveraging data from CRM systems (e.g., Veeva CRM, Salesforce) for market insights and customer segmentation is crucial.

• Business Intelligence Platforms: Proficiency with BI tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for data visualization, trend analysis, and performance tracking of portfolio strategies.

• Project Management Software: Tools like Asana, Monday.com, or Jira may be used for managing strategic initiatives and cross-functional project timelines.

• Collaboration Suites: Microsoft 365 (Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive), Google Workspace for seamless communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Market Research Databases: Access to and ability to interpret data from sources like IQVIA, Symphony Health, GlobalData, and internal market research platforms.

• Forecasting Tools: Familiarity with tools and methodologies used for market forecasting and financial modeling.

• Competitive Intelligence Platforms: Tools and sources for gathering and analyzing competitor activities, pipeline information, and market trends.

CRM & Automation:

• Veeva Systems: Likely utilized for regulatory, quality, and commercial operations, including Vault RIM, Vault QualityDocs, and potentially CRM.

• Data Warehousing & ETL Tools: Understanding of how data is managed and integrated from various sources into analytical platforms.

• Internal Novartis Platforms: Novartis likely uses proprietary or highly customized internal systems for portfolio management, R&D pipeline tracking, and strategic planning. Familiarity with navigating such enterprise systems is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is strategic, a strong understanding of the data and technology leveraged for market intelligence, portfolio analysis, and cross-functional collaboration is essential. Proficiency with BI tools and market research data sources will be key. Familiarity with pharmaceutical-specific platforms like Veeva is a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A commitment to developing novel therapies and innovative strategies to meet unmet patient needs.

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in research, development, and commercial practices.

• Patient Focus: Prioritizing patient well-being and access to medicines in all strategic decisions.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated.

• Excellence: Striving for high performance, continuous improvement, and impactful results in all endeavors.

• Data-Driven: Basing strategic decisions on rigorous analysis and evidence.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Partnership: The role demands a highly collaborative style, working closely with individuals and teams across R&D, Medical Affairs, Market Access, Commercial, and BD&L.

• Influence and Consensus Building: Success hinges on the ability to influence stakeholders without direct authority, build consensus, and drive alignment towards shared strategic goals.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and open communication channels to share insights, address challenges, and ensure alignment across diverse teams.

• Strategic Alignment: Ensuring that all cross-functional efforts are aligned with the overarching TA and portfolio strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: Novartis's culture likely emphasizes scientific rigor, patient-centricity, and ethical conduct. For this role, the ability to collaborate effectively and influence diverse stakeholders across functional boundaries is paramount. A strategic, data-driven approach is expected.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Market Volatility & Competition: Navigating a highly competitive pharmaceutical landscape with evolving market dynamics, pricing pressures, and rapid scientific advancements.

• Long R&D Cycles & Uncertainty: Managing strategies for assets with long development timelines, inherent scientific and regulatory risks, and evolving market needs over a decade.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Achieving consensus and driving action across multiple departments with potentially competing priorities and perspectives.

• Ambiguity & Complexity: Operating within a complex global organization and regulatory environment, often requiring strategic decisions with incomplete information.

• Balancing Short-term vs. Long-term Goals: Ensuring immediate commercial needs are met while maintaining a strong focus on the long-term strategic vision for the therapeutic area.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Strategic Planning: Deepening expertise in strategic frameworks, scenario planning, and competitive analysis techniques specific to the pharmaceutical industry.

• Therapeutic Area Expertise: Gaining in-depth knowledge of specific disease areas, treatment paradigms, and emerging scientific breakthroughs.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to Novartis's leadership training programs to enhance influencing, communication, and strategic decision-making skills.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Opportunities to attend key pharmaceutical strategy and market access conferences to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within Novartis, gaining invaluable insights into executive decision-making and career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are significant, reflecting the complexity of the pharmaceutical industry. Success will depend on strong analytical skills, strategic foresight, and exceptional interpersonal capabilities. Growth opportunities are focused on advancing leadership expertise and strategic impact within the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you developed a comprehensive portfolio strategy for a therapeutic area. What were the key considerations, challenges, and outcomes?" (Focus on your strategic frameworks, data sources, and impact.)

• "How would you approach building competitive readiness for a TA facing significant upcoming patent expirations or new competitor launches?" (Demonstrate your understanding of scenario planning, CI, and proactive strategy.)

• "Walk me through your process for providing commercial input on an early-stage pipeline asset. What factors do you consider most critical for assessing commercial viability?" (Highlight your TPP development and market assessment skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Novartis's current portfolio in [relevant therapeutic area] and its strategic priorities?" (Research Novartis's pipeline and market position.)

• "How do your personal values align with Novartis's core values of integrity, innovation, patient focus, collaboration, and excellence?" (Connect your experiences to these values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio presentation around key strategic contributions: Portfolio Strategy Development, LCM Planning, Pipeline Asset Evaluation, Competitive Readiness Initiatives, and BD&L Support.

• Quantify Outcomes: For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the actions taken, and the measurable results (e.g., projected revenue, market share increase, improved commercial viability score, successful launch preparation milestones).

• Highlight Strategic Thinking: Emphasize why you made certain strategic recommendations, linking them back to market insights, competitive dynamics, and long-term portfolio goals.

• Showcase Cross-Functional Leadership: Detail how you collaborated with and influenced various teams, demonstrating your ability to build consensus and drive integrated strategies.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your strategic choices, the data you used, alternative approaches you considered, and how you would apply similar thinking to Novartis's specific challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic depth, a strong understanding of the pharmaceutical value chain, and exceptional cross-functional leadership. Be ready to articulate your thought process and quantify the impact of your strategic contributions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Novartis careers portal via the provided URL.

• Portfolio Customization: Review your professional portfolio and select 2-3 key projects that best exemplify your strategic planning, portfolio management, competitive intelligence, and cross-functional leadership capabilities relevant to this Director role. Tailor your presentation to highlight contributions to LCM, pipeline strategy, and competitive readiness.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 8+ years of commercial experience, highlighting specific achievements in strategy development, LCM, launch support, and cross-functional collaboration. Use keywords from the job description such as "portfolio strategy," "competitive readiness," "LCM," "BD&L," and "therapeutic area."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on strategic impact and quantifiable outcomes. Prepare to discuss your approach to complex strategic challenges and your understanding of the pharmaceutical market landscape.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Novartis's current therapeutic area portfolios, recent strategic announcements, and competitive positioning. Understand their approach to innovation and patient access to better align your responses with their strategic objectives and culture.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.