Senior Legal Counsel, International Strategy and Commercial Business

Role summary

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Novartis is seeking a Senior Legal Counsel to support international strategy and commercial business activities in the United Kingdom. The role is expected to provide practical, strategic legal advice on commercial transactions, partnerships, market expansion, licensing, governance, and risk management across multiple jurisdictions. Candidates should be qualified lawyers with substantial experience in life sciences, healthcare, commercial, corporate, or international legal work, ideally gained in a major law firm or multinational company. Strong knowledge of regulated industries, excellent drafting and negotiation skills, sound commercial judgment, and the ability to manage complex matters independently are expected. The successful candidate will collaborate with senior stakeholders, communicate clearly across cultures, anticipate legal and business risks, and operate effectively in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment.

About the employer

Novartis is a global medicines company headquartered in Switzerland and focused on discovering, developing, and delivering innovative medicines. Its portfolio includes treatments in areas such as oncology, immunology, neuroscience, cardiovascular and renal diseases, and other high-need conditions. The company combines scientific research, advanced technology, data, and global commercial expertise to improve patient outcomes. Novartis operates across many countries and works with healthcare professionals, regulators, governments, research institutions, and patient communities. Its United Kingdom operations include commercial, medical, research, market access, and corporate functions. The organisation promotes an inclusive, diverse workplace and generally offers employees opportunities to work on international projects, develop specialist expertise, and contribute to its purpose of reimagining medicine. Benefits and working arrangements vary by role, location, seniority, and local employment terms.

Working in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom offers strong opportunities in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, technology, finance, professional services, engineering, and academia, with London, Cambridge, Oxford, Manchester, Edinburgh, and other regional centres serving as major employment hubs. Its culture is diverse and generally values professionalism, punctuality, personal privacy, and direct but polite communication. Lifestyle options range from busy urban living to coastal and countryside communities, supported by extensive public transport and the National Health Service. International professionals should check whether their employer holds a sponsor licence before applying. Most non-UK nationals need a visa, commonly the Skilled Worker route, requiring an eligible job, salary threshold, and employer sponsorship. Dependants may usually accompany eligible workers. Relocation costs, housing deposits, taxes, healthcare arrangements, and school availability should be planned in advance. Immigration rules can change, so applicants should verify current requirements through GOV.UK.