Executive Director M&A Transactions

28 May 2026
100%
Basel (City)

Job summary

Join Novartis as Executive Director, M&A Transactions, a pivotal role. Shape innovative strategies in a dynamic, inclusive environment.

Tasks

Lead complex mergers and acquisitions from strategy to closing.
Define governance plans and engage with target companies effectively.
Oversee due diligence and negotiate terms for strategic alignment.

Skills

Extensive M&A experience in diverse regions and industries required.
Strong financial expertise, including valuation and modeling skills.
Exceptional communication and leadership abilities at senior levels.

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About the job

Summary

#LI-Hybrid

Location: this role can be based in Cambridge MA, East Hannover New Jersey or Basel Switzerland. Please ensure you apply for the position in the correct location for you

Please note closing date for applications is 2 weeks from date of posting

Shape the future of Novartis through transformative deal-making. As Executive Director, M&A Transactions, you will play a critical role at the centre of our growth strategy—leading high-value acquisitions and divestments that unlock innovation and drive long-term impact. Partnering closely with senior leadership, you will navigate complex, high-stakes decisions, influence capital allocation, and deliver transactions that strengthen our global portfolio. This is a rare opportunity to operate at enterprise level and directly contribute to reimagining medicine for patients worldwide.

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end execution of complex mergers and acquisitions transactions from strategy through closing

Define deal strategies, governance plans, timelines, and engagement approaches with target companies

Drive collaboration across legal, finance, tax, diligence, and commercial teams globally

Oversee due diligence processes, ensuring rigorous evaluation of risks, value, and strategic fit

Lead negotiation of transaction terms, balancing commercial value with long-term strategic priorities

Prepare and present decision frameworks to executive leadership

Ensure smooth transition from deal approval to integration, safeguarding value realization and strategic intent

Essential Requirements

Extensive experience leading end-to-end mergers and acquisitions transactions across multiple deal types and regions

Strong financial expertise, including valuation, financial modelling, and scenario planning

Proven ability to align transactions with corporate strategy and long-term growth objectives

Deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, competition law, and transaction governance processes

Demonstrated ability to lead and influence complex, cross-functional teams at senior levels

Exceptional communication skills, with experience engaging executive stakeholders

Experience within the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry

Desirable Requirements

Advanced degree in business, finance, or life sciences

Medical or scientific background and experience is preferred

Benefits: Read our handbook to learn about all the ways we’ll help you thrive personally and professionally: Novartis Life Handbook

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve.

Accessibility and accommodation: Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, be-cause of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or in order to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to E-Mail schreiben and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

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)