First Line Manager – Field Force Team Lead

About the role

Novartis is looking for a First Line Manager in Diegem to lead a high-performing field force team in one of its Therapy Areas. The role combines strategic account management, people leadership, cross-functional coordination and execution, helping bring innovative medicines to patients through strong customer partnerships and a capable, engaged team.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop a team of Sales Representatives to meet sales, market share, productivity and performance targets.
• Develop and run area business plans aligned with national priorities and brand objectives.
• Build a high-performance culture through coaching, capability development, feedback and talent management.
• Ensure the right customer engagement, content, channel, timing and messaging across customer interactions.
• Use customer and market insights to optimise territory performance and prioritise opportunities.
• Lead strategic account engagement and support cross-functional account plans.
• Work with Medical, Value & Access, Patient Engagement, Key Account Management and Customer Success teams to maximise outcomes.
• Identify barriers in the patient journey and work with stakeholders to improve diagnosis, treatment access and quality of care.
• Manage resources and operating budgets, maintain compliance, and report adverse events and product complaints on time.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Fluent Dutch and/or French, English.
• Proven leadership experience in pharma, biotech, healthcare or a related industry.
• Strong track record of commercial results and leading high-performing teams.
• Diverse therapy areas, specialty care or hospital-based experience preferred.

Required skills

• Business planning and turning strategy into execution.
• Coaching, people development and stakeholder management.
• Communication and influence in a complex matrix organisation.
• Data, analytics and customer insights to drive decisions.
• Leading through change in a dynamic healthcare environment.

What we offer

• Annual base salary range of EUR 71,300 to 132,500, with a possible performance-based bonus.
• Insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programmes.
• Flexible and hybrid working where possible, and at least 14 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Possible company vehicle or car allowance under local policy.