Head of Development Function, SDC Slovenia (d/f/m)

About the role

Sandoz is looking for a Head of Development Function for its Global Development (SGD) in Slovenia. You will lead and manage a team of managers and professionals and act as a scientific leader within the organisation, initiating and leading strategic projects, networks and platforms. You will chair advisory boards on complex R&D topics, coach peers and guide project portfolios, ensuring compliance with legislation, internal policies, good practices and business objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, initiate and direct cross-functional teams, projects, networks and platforms at department level or beyond, including budget planning and integration of operational processes.
• Shape and drive development strategies for projects and platforms, and be accountable for achieving goals and strategic directives.
• Provide expert advice on a wide range of issues within and outside your discipline, and act as a role model for quality, ethics, health, safety, environment and information security.
• Create and implement optimised processes, and lead or join advisory boards and organising committees for symposia and consortia.
• Present and initiate discussion on scientific and technical work at internal and external meetings and conferences.
• Drive people development, build relationships with business partners and academia, and promote Sandoz as an employer of choice.

Required profile

• PhD in pharmacy, chemistry or another relevant field.
• Minimum 15 years of relevant experience, including substantial experience in people management and leading leaders.
• At least 8 years of experience leading large teams as Department Head, Head of Function or equivalent.
• Distinguished scientific leader with a proven track record in development projects, marketed products and strategic activities.
• Fluent English; knowledge of Slovenian is an advantage.

Required skills

• In-depth knowledge of technologies for oral solids, injectables and other pharmaceutical dosage forms.
• Experience driving high-throughput generic development across geographies.
• Excellent communication, presentation and scientific writing skills, plus advanced coaching and mentoring skills.

What we offer

• Permanent position in Ljubljana with a 6-month probation period, 40 hours per week.
• Salary of EUR 117,600 to 176,400 gross per year, depending on experience and expertise.
• Annual bonus (STI and LTI), vacation allowance and Christmas bonus.
• Company share scheme, voluntary additional pension scheme fully covered by the employer, and collective life and accident insurance.