Head of Policy Advocacy – Sub‑Saharan Africa

About the role

The Head of Policy Advocacy for Sub‑Saharan Africa will lead Novartis’ advocacy agenda on health financing, regulatory harmonisation, local manufacturing, competitiveness, ESG and environmental issues. You will shape legislation and regulation to ensure sustainable access to innovative medicines for patients across the region.

Key responsibilities

• Drive targeted advocacy on priority health‑policy topics aligned with Novartis’ regional strategy.
• Build and maintain strong networks with African Union, Africa CDC, Council of Ministers, AMA, AfCFTA and other key institutions.
• Monitor policy evolution and regulatory developments across African health and pharmaceutical bodies.
• Provide proactive analysis of the political environment and its impact on medicine availability.
• Represent Novartis in selected trade‑association committees and regional policy fora.
• Collaborate with International Public Affairs, Medical, V&A and Operations teams to link policy issues with business impact.
• Contribute to launch plans, ensuring policy readiness for new products.
• Coordinate the creation of strategic policy materials such as white papers and position statements.

Required profile

• Proven experience in health‑policy or regulatory advocacy within Sub‑Saharan Africa.
• Established relationships with African governmental and industry stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret political and regulatory trends.
• Ability to work cross‑functionally with internal business units.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence health policy at a continental level.
• Collaborative environment within a leading global pharmaceutical company.
• Access to internal expertise across medical, commercial and regulatory functions.