Job Description

Summary The Design Deployment Lead is responsible for assessing the requirements of new technology solutions or major improvements of existing solutions, in collaboration with functional owners (e.g. a Global Process Lead in a CoE). The lead is tasked with building comprehensive plans for the design, testing, and implementation of new solutions, which includes resource and budget planning, as well as project oversight to ensure timely and successful execution. The role requires partnering with Digital, Data IT (DDIT) for the design of new solutions, preparation execution of testing, quality control, and rollout plans. This role is instrumental in identifying, mitigating and monitoring key risks while implementing agile methodologies centered around design thinking, fast prototyping, and iterative versions prior to scaling up a solution. And at all times, the role will partner closely with the original requestor or Global Process Lead in a CoE to ensure the solutions meet the requirements, manage expectations around timing and or to resolve potential challenges. After the successful completion of a project, the Lead will hand over the implementation to the business system owner in Enterprise Innovation Solutions and prepare operationalization of the solution by providing training plans for those involved in running the solution (e.g. People Services Solutions - PSS). If the solution involves artificial intelligence, the role will closely collaborate with the AI Innovation Director. For projects involving external vendors, coordination with procurement and DDIT is essential to assess vendor capabilities and manage vendor relationships throughout the project. Additionally, the lead will provide developmental feedback to project participants and coordinate with operational managers as a crucial aspect of the role. The Design Deployment Lead may work with up to 20 indirect reports. About the Role Roles and responsibilities: Solution Assessment and Implementation Planning: Collaborate with functional owners (e.g. a GPO in a CoE) and DDIT to assess the requirements and specifications of new technology solutions or major improvements in existing solutions based on insights from end users. Partner with business system owner DDIT stakeholders to assess touchpoints with existing technology landscape and define the end to end scope of the new technology solution/major improvement. Ensure solutions are scalable, secure, and aligned with business requirements, with clear measures of success that can be tracked after implementation. Develop a change plan to ensure organizational readiness for adoption and operationalization of solutions, working with CoEs, People Partners, and PSS. Develop comprehensive plans for the design, testing, and implementation of new solutions, including resource and budget planning. These plans should include methods for testing design choices and prototypes with actual users of the new solution. Partnership and Coordination: Partner with DDIT to design new technology solutions and establish testing, quality control, and rollout processes aligned with DDIT standard operating procedures. If AI is involved, collaborate with the AI Innovation Director to ensure intended outcomes align with the AI strategy, priorities, and standards. Coordinate with Procurement and DDIT for engaging, evaluating and managing external vendors. Include the functional stakeholders/ representatives during each phase of the project and assess solutions against the requirements/ needs. Involve PSS early on and throughout the project in case operationalization involves support from PSS. Same for other stakeholders if the solution impacts their role (e.g. People Partner or CoE roles). Project Oversight and Risk Management: Provide oversight for projects from inception to completion, ensuring timely and successful execution. This could include a portfolio of different initiatives at any given time. Develop project plans, timelines, and budgets. Identify and monitor key risks associated with project delivery. Ensure adherence to established project methodologies, change management frameworks and Novartis standards (e.g. DDIT standards or role-based access principles). Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders, including vendors, to ensure timely and quality delivery. During the project / enhancement phase, provide oversight to applicable regulatory frameworks such as data privacy, work s councils guidelines, GxP regulations (FDA 21 CFR Part 11 / MHRA, EU Annex 11 etc.), SoX e.t.c. as applicable to the solution. Merger, Acquisitions and Divestments: Co-ordinate with MA teams (MA IT as well PO MA Teams) to assess technology needs arising out of a MA deal such as new access model setup, data segregation setup etc. Provide oversight to post TSA systems clean-up activities. Agile Methodologies: Implement agile ways of working centered on design thinking, fast prototyping, and iterative versions before scaling up the solution. Handover and Compliance: Ensure a seamless handover to the business system owner in Enterprise Innovation Solutions upon project completion. Prepare comprehensive training and change plan to ensure successful go-live and adoption. Maintain full compliance with established PO Data Standards and other internal policies, procedures, and protocols. Ensure continuous improvement through regular feedback and performance metrics. External networking market research Partner with business system owners and DDIT to understand vendor landscape and vendor product roadmaps and include this assessment in any solution design. Network externally to understand PO related technology trends and developments. Developmental Feedback coaching: Mentor and guide team members to ensure professional growth and project success. Provide developmental feedback coaching to all project participants. Coordinate feedback with operational managers of project team members. Foster a collaborative and innovative team culture. Key Performance Indicators Solution Adoption Rate: Measure the rate at which new technology solutions are adopted and utilized by end-users within the organization. Project Execution Metrics: Track progress against project timelines, budgets, and deliverables. Risk Mitigation: Monitor and manage identified key risks to minimize impact. Ideal Background Education : Master in Business (MBA) / a related field or Informational Studies. Experience skills: Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in technology solution design, business product ownership, or related roles. Proven track record in successfully managing enterprise-wide or bespoke PO tech projects and delivering results that meet business goals and requirements. Experience in leading cross-functional teams and coordinating efforts with stakeholders from multiple departments. Strong understanding of PO processes, data standards, and compliance protocols. Experience in budget management, ROI analysis, and KPI monitoring within a technology delivery context. Familiarity with design thinking principles, agile ways of working to enhance customer experiences. Knowledge of industry best practices in project management, agile methodologies, and technology solution implementation.