Director, Internal Audit, TechOps

About the role

As Director, Internal Audit – TechOps you will safeguard Novartis’ Technical Operations in Barcelona, providing independent, strategic assurance across manufacturing and supply. You will lead high‑impact audit and advisory engagements, influencing risk identification, mitigation and management to ensure delivery of quality medicines worldwide.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee complex, risk‑based audit and advisory engagements across manufacturing and supply operations.
• Define audit scopes that address end‑to‑end Technical Operations risks, including quality, compliance, technology and third‑party models.
• Support audit planning and program development by identifying key Manufacturing & Supply risks.
• Review audit findings and reports to ensure technical accuracy and evidence‑based conclusions.
• Provide pragmatic, value‑adding recommendations to strengthen controls and drive measurable improvement.
• Act as trusted advisor to senior leaders while maintaining independence.
• Manage and develop Senior Managers and audit teams, ensuring high‑quality delivery.
• Advance digital, data‑driven and AI‑enabled audit practices in collaboration with enablement teams.
• Travel globally up to 25% of the time.

Required profile

• Degree in a technical or scientific discipline related to manufacturing, supply chain, logistics or production planning.
• Extensive experience in internal audit within highly regulated industries, preferably pharmaceuticals.
• Deep knowledge of end‑to‑end manufacturing, supply chain, quality systems and external manufacturing models.
• Proven track record leading audit engagements, managing senior stakeholders and delivering high‑impact outcomes.
• Strong understanding of GMP, GDP and global regulatory requirements (FDA, EMA, etc.).
• Ability to operate in complex environments, influence senior leaders and communicate audit conclusions effectively.

Required skills

• Risk‑based audit methodology
• Digital audit tools and data analytics
• Artificial intelligence‑enabled audit practices
• Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)
• Good Distribution Practice (GDP)
• Regulatory knowledge of FDA and EMA standards