Head of Data Governance, Anonymization and Quality

Novartis • Cambridge, MA

1d • $176,400 - $327,600 • Hybrid

About The Position

Data42 is Novartis’ enterprise data and AI platform, bringing together clinical, research, and real‑world data to power advanced analytics and accelerate the discovery and development of innovative medicines. As part of the Data42 leadership team, the Head of Data Governance, Anonymization and Quality will establish and enforce frameworks, standards, and controls to ensure data and process integrity, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of high-quality, trusted information across the organization. The role is responsible for the anonymization of patient data to enable secondary research while safeguarding privacy and compliance requirements, and co-leads the Biomedical Research (BR) Governance Board in partnership with the Head of Data / EDO to drive effective data governance and decision-making.

Requirements

• 15+ Years of experience in Data Governance or related field, with strong interest in Governance and Application of AI
• PhD or MSc in Statistics, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Biostatistics, or a related quantitative discipline.
• Experience in drug discovery and/or life sciences, with an understanding of data-driven research environments and familiarity with clinical data and real world data, paired with an advanced knowledge in bioinformatics, computer science, or related quantitative disciplines.
• Solid understanding and practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a business or scientific context, with proven expertise in data analysis, data science, and deriving actionable insights from complex datasets.
• Proven leadership experience, with a strong track record in leading and developing high-performing global teams
• Extensive experience in defining and delivering enterprise data strategies aligned to business objectives
• Track record of driving innovation and embedding new technologies or data-driven approaches at scale
• Ability to thrive in dynamic environments and a strong execution mindset to drive outcomes and deliver results
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across organizational boundaries and cross-functionally, with a strong enterprise thinking mindset, particularly with Data Privacy and Enterprise Data Management (EDM) stakeholders, with excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to influence at senior leadership level

Nice To Haves

• Scientific background would be an advantage
• Cybersecurity interest or experience, related to data security
• Familiarity with Palantir Foundry

Responsibilities

• Define and implement data governance policies and standards for BR, ensuring consistency, integrity, and compliance across the organization
• Partner with the Head of Data and Platform to embed data governance principles into technology solutions, including “data governance as code”
• Lead the anonymization of Novartis patient-level data to enable compliant secondary research use on data42
• Collaborate closely with the Head of Data on enterprise data management (EDM) activities, including governance frameworks such as the BR Data Governance Board charter
• Play a key role in shaping and executing the BR data strategy, ensuring alignment with business priorities and regulatory requirements
• Monitor and continuously improve data governance and data quality practices across BR, driving accountability and measurable outcomes
• Ensure ongoing audit readiness by maintaining robust controls, documentation, and compliance processes
• Serve as Deputy Enterprise Data Officer (EDO), providing leadership, guidance, and continuity in data governance and oversight activities

Benefits

• health, life and disability benefits
• a 401(k) with company contribution and match
• a variety of other benefits
• a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree