Portfolio management & LCM Lead, Commercial Portfolio Unit

Role summary

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This role leads portfolio management and lifecycle management (LCM) for Novartis Japan’s commercial portfolio. Requirements typically include strong experience in pharmaceutical portfolio strategy, brand or product lifecycle planning, commercial assessment, cross-functional leadership, and business-case development. Fluency in Japanese and English, sound knowledge of the Japanese healthcare market, and the ability to work with local and global stakeholders are likely expected. The successful candidate will prioritize growth opportunities, identify risks and market changes, coordinate product strategies, and support decisions that improve portfolio value. Candidates should demonstrate strategic thinking, analytical ability, influencing skills, sound judgment, and the confidence to operate in a complex, matrix-based organization.

About the employer

Novartis is a global medicines company headquartered in Switzerland and focused on innovative prescription medicines. Its work spans areas such as oncology, immunology, neuroscience, cardiovascular and renal conditions, and other diseases with significant unmet medical needs. The company combines research, technology, clinical development, manufacturing, and commercial capabilities to bring new treatments to patients worldwide. Novartis Japan is part of this international organization and works with healthcare professionals, regulators, patient groups, and local partners to make medicines available in the Japanese market. Employees generally operate in cross-functional and multinational teams, with opportunities to contribute to product strategy, medical innovation, market access, and commercial growth. The company emphasizes science-led decision-making, patient impact, inclusion, ethical conduct, and collaboration across countries and business functions.

Working in Japan

Japan offers strong opportunities in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare, technology, finance, manufacturing, and international business. Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, and Kobe are major employment centers, while regional cities can provide a quieter lifestyle and lower housing costs. Japanese workplaces value punctuality, preparation, respect, teamwork, and careful communication; multinational employers may use English, although Japanese ability is highly valuable. Daily life is safe and convenient, with excellent public transport, reliable services, varied food, and rich cultural traditions. Housing in Tokyo is expensive, and relocation costs can be substantial. Foreign professionals normally need an employer-sponsored work visa, commonly under an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services or highly skilled professional category. Employers often assist with visa applications, registration, health insurance, and relocation. New arrivals should arrange a residence card, local address registration, tax procedures, and a Japanese bank account.