Head, Oncology Drug Discovery – San Diego

Key Responsibilities:
- Define and drive the scientific strategy for oncology drug discovery across the San Diego site
- Lead multidisciplinary teams advancing programs from target validation through development candidate nomination and Investigational New Drug enabling studies
- Own portfolio strategy, prioritization, and resourcing decisions to deliver impactful oncology innovation
- Partner with global and site leaders to align discovery programs with overall oncology portfolio strategy
- Champion novel therapeutic approaches, including advanced small-molecule modalities and emerging discovery platforms
- Build and strengthen external partnerships to accelerate scientific innovation and program progression
- Ensure delivery of high-quality preclinical data packages supporting clinical translation and development readiness
- Mentor and develop scientific and project leaders while building a high-performing oncology research organization
- Represent San Diego as a strategic oncology hub, fostering collaboration across the Novartis global research network
- Drive data-driven decision making at key milestones to maximize portfolio value and patient impact

Essential Requirements:
- Doctoral degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or closely related field
- Minimum 15 years of experience in oncology research and end-to-end drug discovery
- Deep expertise in cancer biology and translational science across discovery and preclinical development
- Proven track record delivering development candidates and advancing programs to Investigational New Drug submission readiness
- Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary teams and complex research programs in a matrix environment
- Strong publication history as senior or corresponding author in high-impact oncology journals
- Extensive experience leading small-molecule oncology programs from discovery through development candidate selection
- Exceptional leadership and talent development capability building high-performing scientific organizations

Desirable Requirements:
- Experience advancing oncology programs using biologic therapeutic approaches in addition to small-molecule discovery
- Expertise in targeted protein degradation, induced proximity, or closely related small-molecule discovery approaches