Job Description Summary
To lead the Forecasting function within FI&A, S&G as a strategic, insight-driven and functionally strong capability. The Forecasting Head will bring thought leadership, drive excellence in forecasting process, and build a scalable, future-ready team. This role ensures delivery of robust, scenario-based forecasts that inform strategic decisions across TAs, FCE teams, and broader S&G priorities. The leader will also be accountable for developing a strong functional career path for associates, fostering a high-performing, agile, and collaborative culture aligned with S&G and FI&A objectives.
Job Description
Major accountabilities:
Overall responsibility:
Set and communicate a compelling long-term vision for the forecasting function, aligning team objectives with S&G strategy.
Lead Hyderabad based Forecasting team to deliver best-in-class, end-to-end forecasting support across S&G (TAs and FCE teams), with functional and technical expertise.
Be the primary POC for forecasting queries for Novartis stakeholders.
Drive thought leadership in forecasting, together with key stakeholders, to create scale and tangible impact
Proactively assess the overall evolving support needs and adapt as needed.
Encourage a culture of innovation. Promote the adoption, and implementation of latest forecasting best practices, tools, and process standardizations to ensure exceptional quality.
Lead team through organizational change, fostering agility and resilience within the team during periods of uncertainty or transition.
Represent Forecasting in FIA leadership team and support FI&A head in building a highly collaborative Forecasting, Insights & Analytics group.
Team leadership (direct reports – 4-5 at level 5 and indirect reports ~40 level 3-4):
Lead a medium sized team of 40 associates, including management of managers
Build and lead a team of forecasting experts. Empower leaders to take accountability of their areas, fostering a culture of ownership and high engagement. Responsibilities include but not limited to
Manage project and resource planning to support the teams in their forecasting needs
Ensure on-time, high-quality delivery by establishing and monitoring KPIsMaintain transparency into budgets, optimize deployment of resources and identify areas of improvement / productivity.
Develop and execute a comprehensive talent strategy for succession planning, targeted upskilling, top talent retention, attrition management and leadership development.
Exemplify a culture of inclusiveness through collaboration, feedback, recognition and ensuring diverse perspectives are valued.
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Essential Requirements
>15 years of relevant experience including 5+ years of experience managing teams (experience of leading people managers preferred)
Strong understanding of the S&G operating model including priorities of different teams
Demonstrated expertise in forecasting techniques, modeling, assumption building, and hands-on experience in assessing, challenging, and renovating forecasting approaches.
Proven ability to manage complex delivery portfolios, including prioritization, resource allocation, risk mitigation, making process improvements and bringing innovation.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills (including working with a matrix and geographically dispersed environment)
Curious and unbossed leadership mindset.
Education
Minimum: University degree and MBA or professional qualification in related field, e.g., business, life sciences, analytics
Prior experience in analytics, forecasting for complex quantitative and qualitative data analysis is desirable
Languages
Fluent spoken and written English
Skills Desired
Agility, Agility, Brand Analysis, Brand Awareness, Commercial Excellence, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Customer Engagement, Customer Experience, Customer Insights, Data Strategy, Digital Marketing, Go-To-Market Strategy, Healthcare Needs, healthcare outcomes, Influencing Skills, Inspirational Leadership, launch products, Marketing Strategy, Media Campaigns, People Management, Product Marketing, Product Roadmap, Return on Investment (ROI), Stakeholder Engagement, Stakeholder Management {+ 2 more}