Principal Data Governance Specialist

Are you passionate about data governance and eager to drive meaningful change in the pharmaceutical industry? Do you excel at building robust data governance frameworks while collaborating with global stakeholders? 
 
If this resonates with you, we look forward to welcoming you to the Research Data Management team. Apply today and be part of our mission to make a difference! 
 
The position 
As a Principal Data Governance Specialist, your primary responsibility will be to develop and implement a comprehensive data governance strategy for R&ED, successfully integrating people, processes, and technology. 
 
You will also define data management needs, ensuring compliance with confidentiality, privacy, security, and regulatory standards. Additionally, you will embed governance into daily operations, facilitating data sharing and aligning with global best practices. 
 
Your key responsibilities include: 

• Contributing to the development of a data governance strategy for R&ED Data, encompassing people, processes, and technology 
• Driving the operationalization of the data governance strategy, cooperating with cross-functional teams 
• Fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, industry associations, and external partners 
• Promoting a culture of data literacy within R&ED, driving informed decision-making and supporting operational objectives
• Serving as a key contributor to the Research Data Management organization, fostering innovation and mentoring colleagues 

  
Qualifications 
To thrive and succeed in this role, we believe you should: 

• Hold a PhD in Data Management, Life Sciences, or related fields with 5–7 years of relevant data governance experience, OR 
• Have a master's degree with 8–11 years of relevant expertise, coupled with deep knowledge of data principles and best practices within life sciences
• Demonstrate a proven ability to drive enterprise data projects, cultivating a robust data-driven culture across the organization
• Bring a strong understanding of evolving data management trends, technology, and regulatory requirements
• Showcase solid project management skills, with the ability to translate business needs into data governance strategies that enhance research and innovation 
• Possess outstanding communication skills, effectively aligning cross-functional teams and engaging stakeholders at all levels

Knowledge of drug development and familiarity with the research and development pipeline in pharma would be considered a strong advantage. 
 
As a person, you have a strong business mindset, navigating complex data models and processes while demonstrating initiative and enthusiasm. You thrive in a changing and dynamic work environment and have a can-do attitude with the ability to execute a plan and keep deadlines. You display excellent collaboration and communication skills across all organizational levels, functions, and cultures. You are a true team player, who excels in engaging global stakeholders at all levels, bringing people together, and serving as a role model. 
  
About the department 
The Research Data Management area at Novo Nordisk is located at our headquarters and has members located across the globe in our R&ED sites. Our team is dedicated to ensuring secure freedom to operate and effective data-driven decision-making from Novo Nordisk research data.  
 
We strive to enable FAIR@source in new software and data products, harmonise research data assets, and provide a single source of truth for research metadata. The atmosphere is dynamic and innovative, and we play a crucial role in ensuring business continuity through submissions of formatted non-clinical study data for approvals. Join us and be part of a team that is making a difference in the healthcare industry. 
  
Working at Novo Nordisk 
At Novo Nordisk, we don’t wait for change. We drive it. We’re a dynamic company in an even more dynamic industry, and we know that what got us to where we are today is not necessarily what will make us successful in the future. We embrace the spirit of experimentation, striving for excellence without fixating on perfection. We never shy away from opportunities to develop, we seize them. From research and development, through to manufacturing, marketing, and sales – we’re all working to move the needle on patient care. 
  
Contact 
For further details about the role, please reach out to Saritha Vettikunnel Kuriakose, Vice President of Research Data Management, at SVZK@novonordisk.com 
 
Deadline 
10 April 2025. 
 
Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. 
 
You do not need to attach a cover letter to your application, but please include a few sentences about why you are applying in your resume or CV. To ensure an efficient and fair recruitment process, please refrain from adding a photo to your CV. 

We commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants. 

At Novo Nordisk we recognize that it is no longer good enough to aspire to be the best company in the world. We need to aspire to be the best company for the world and we know that this is only possible with talented employees with diverse perspectives, backgrounds and cultures. We are therefore committed to creating an inclusive culture that celebrates the diversity of our employees, the patients we serve and communities we operate in. Together, we’re life changing.