Head Design & Construction Management

Job Description Summary

The Head DCM leads the Design & Construction Management function, accountable for end to end governance, delivery, financial performance, and strategic development of all capital projects within the region.

The Head DCM ensures Novartis can plan, design, authorize, execute, and govern major capital investments with transparency, compliance, and strategic alignment.

 

Job Description

Major Accountabilities but not limited to

• Lead the regional DCM team and govern third party service providers in DCM project management

• Oversee the entire capital appropriation request lifecycle, including ensuring high‑quality project options analysis, feasibility assessments, and scope validation, reviewing and approving ECAR/PCAR deliverables, financial assumptions, cost estimates, and risk assessments

• Ensuring compliance with local frameworks (e.g., Swiss SIA standards for CH).

• Financial Management & Savings Delivery accountable for annual capital spend of >100mUSD Spend

• Lead financial forecasting, cost controls, capitalization alignment, and savings commitments

• Act as senior interface to Real Estate Heads, Finance controllers, Procurement, HSE, Business units, External partners, authorities, and planners

• Demonstrate company values on a consistent basis

• Drive culture within organization that retains and develops talent to create a pipeline for organizational growth, as well as one which values diversity and embraces inclusive behaviors.

 

Minimum Requirements

• Extensive experience in capital project management, engineering, construction, or real estate within regulated environments

• Deep knowledge of CAR/ECAR processes, financial modelling, cost control, and project governance structures

• Strong leadership capability in matrix organizations, navigating suppliers, authorities, and technical teams

• Understanding of local regulatory frameworks (e.g., Swiss SIA norms for CH, Knowledge of  GxP standards)

• Strategic mindset with ability to lead organizational transformation (e.g., DCM carve‑outs, NOCC integration)

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal

Languages

• English/German

Why Novartis: Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? https://www.novartis.com/about/strategy/people-and-culture

Benefits and Rewards: Learn about all the ways we’ll help you thrive personally and professionally. Read our handbook (PDF 30 MB)

 

Skills Desired

Design And Construction Management, Facility Management, Finance Management, Influencing And Persuading, Knowledge Of Business Models, Knowledge Of Creating Strategic Partnerships, Real Estate Management