Head of Medical Safety – Global Clinical Safety & Pharmacovigilance

About the role

We are seeking a senior leader to head Medical Safety within our Global Clinical Safety & Pharmacovigilance (GCSP) function. Reporting to the Head of GCSP & EU/UK QPPV, the role will be based in Germany or Switzerland and will involve up to 20 % travel across Europe. The successful candidate will provide medical leadership, oversee safety activities for both development programs and marketed products, and drive innovation in safety processes.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, develop and mentor a team of six senior Safety Physicians and Scientists.
• Ensure high‑quality clinical safety contributions throughout product life‑cycle in line with regulations, company SOPs and global guidelines.
• Represent the GCSP function on leadership and governance committees.
• Support GCP and GVP audits and inspections, providing medical safety expertise.
• Contribute to strategic initiatives, innovation projects and the adoption of new safety technologies.
• Stay current with emerging regulations, tools and best practices in medical safety.

Required profile

• Medical Doctor (MD) degree with at least 10 years of experience in clinical safety and pharmacovigilance, including senior medical safety roles.
• Proven leadership experience, ability to set direction and drive high‑performing teams in a regulated, global environment.
• Strong ethical judgment, stakeholder engagement skills and resilience in change‑driven settings.
• Fluent English communication, both written and oral, with ability to present complex medical and regulatory information.

Required skills

• Deep knowledge of GCP, GVP and ICH guidelines.
• Hands‑on experience with CTD compilation and MAA/BLA submissions to major health authorities.
• Expertise in signal management, risk minimisation and global safety regulations.
• Proficiency with relevant IT tools and safety databases.