Major Accountabilities:

Political and Legislative Engagement:

• Navigate and influence the Saudi political and legislative environment to support Novartis’s strategic goals.
• Build and maintain relationships with key government officials, policymakers, and stakeholders.

Business Opportunity Maximization:

• Align Novartis’s business strategies with Saudi Arabia's Vision to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Thought Leadership in Public Policy:

• Provide evidence-based insights and innovative solutions to inform public policy.
• Collaborate with government, industry, academic institutions, industry partners, diplomatic partners, associations and other members of the healthcare ecosystem to establish Novartis as a leading voice in policy debates.

Cross-Divisional Strategy Development:

• Develop and implement a cohesive government affairs strategy that integrates and supports all NOVARTIS objectives through effective communication and collaboration across business units.

Crisis Management:

• Identify and manage short-term issues and crises with high business and reputational impact.
• Implement robust risk management frameworks and respond promptly and transparently to crises.

Stakeholder Management at the Highest Government Level:

• Engage with senior government officials and high-level stakeholders to advocate for Novartis’s interests.
• Develop and maintain strategic relationships to facilitate effective communication and collaboration.

Macro and Geopolitical Factors:

• Monitor and analyze macroeconomic trends and geopolitical developments impacting Saudi Arabia.
• Develop strategies to navigate and leverage these factors to support Novartis’ business objectives.

Leadership and Collaboration:

• Foster collaboration within the country executive team and divisional government affairs staff.
• Maintain strategic alignment with overall business objectives and regularly interact with senior leaders.

Job Dimensions (Indicate key facts and figures)

Number of associates: 1

Impact on the organization:  High

Background (State the required education, experience level, and competency profile)

Minimum Job Criteria: Government Affairs Leader

Educational Background:

• Bachelor's degree in political science, Public Policy, Law, Healthcare Administration, or a related field.
• Advanced degree (master's or PhD) preferred.

Professional Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in government affairs, public policy, or a related field.
• Significant experience in the healthcare or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven track record of influencing public policy and legislative processes.
• Local Policy and Saudi Market Experience: Extensive experience with local policies and a deep understanding of the Saudi market dynamics.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement comprehensive government affairs strategies.
• Political Acumen: Deep understanding of the political and legislative environment in Saudi Arabia.
• Relationship Building: Strong networking skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with key government officials and stakeholders.
• Crisis Management: Experience in managing short-term issues and crises with high business and reputational impact.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex issues clearly and persuasively.
• Leadership: Proven leadership skills with the ability to foster collaboration and drive strategic alignment.
• Language: Fluency in English and Arabic both verbally and in writing is a must

Knowledge and Expertise:

• In-depth knowledge of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and its implications for the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.
• Familiarity with macroeconomic trends and geopolitical factors affecting the region.
• Understanding of regulatory and compliance requirements in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.

Personal Attributes:

• Innovative Mindset: Commitment to fostering a positive pro-innovation environment.
• Adaptability: Ability to navigate a dynamic and evolving political landscape.
• Integrity: High ethical standards and a commitment to transparency and accountability.