Regional Head, Pharmacovigilance Quality (PVQA)

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Regional Head, Pharmacovigilance Quality leads quality oversight for pharmacovigilance activities across the region, ensuring compliance with global regulations, company procedures, inspection standards and patient-safety expectations. Requirements typically include a degree in pharmacy, medicine, life sciences or a related discipline; substantial pharmacovigilance, quality assurance or regulatory experience; and strong knowledge of GVP, audit, inspection readiness, quality systems and risk management. The successful candidate is expected to provide strategic leadership, manage quality issues and corrective actions, oversee audits and inspections, collaborate with global and local safety teams, and communicate effectively with senior stakeholders. Strong analytical, influencing, project-management and cross-cultural leadership skills are essential.

About the employer

Novartis is a global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Switzerland and focused on innovative medicines. The company researches, develops and commercialises treatments in areas including cardiovascular, renal and metabolic disease, immunology, neuroscience, oncology and haematology. Novartis operates across numerous countries and combines scientific research, clinical development, advanced manufacturing and digital technologies to address significant healthcare needs. Its work is strongly centred on improving patient outcomes, maintaining high ethical and regulatory standards, and bringing evidence-based medicines to healthcare systems. In the United Kingdom, Novartis employs professionals across medical affairs, drug safety, regulatory affairs, commercial operations, research, technology and corporate functions. Employees typically work in internationally connected teams, with opportunities to contribute to large-scale programmes and global quality initiatives. Benefits and working arrangements vary by position, location and employment contract.

Working in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom offers strong opportunities in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, life sciences, technology, finance, engineering and professional services, with major employment centres in London, Cambridge, Oxford, Manchester, Edinburgh and other regional cities. Its culture is generally professional, diverse and multicultural, with an emphasis on punctuality, personal privacy and clear communication. Lifestyle options range from busy city living to quieter coastal and rural communities; public transport is widely available, although costs can be high, especially in London. Skilled workers may qualify for the UK Skilled Worker visa if they have an eligible sponsored job, meet salary and English-language requirements, and work for an approved employer. Some senior roles may qualify for other immigration routes. Relocation planning should include visa fees, housing, healthcare arrangements, tax, schooling and the cost of living. Rules and salary thresholds change, so applicants should check official UK government guidance.