Director, Medical Affairs Obesity

Director, Medical Affairs Obesity

Category: Medical Affairs

Location:Zurich, Switzerland Zurich, CH

If you're driven by a desire to translate cutting-edge science into real-world clinical impact, elevate standards of care, thrive through collaboration, and help reshape how the world understands obesity—this is your moment.

At Novo Nordisk we are looking for two Directors, Medical Affairs – Obesity, to help lead the evolution of one of the most transformative therapy areas in modern medicine—and one of the greatest healthcare challenges of our time.

Your New Role

As Director, Medical Affairs – Obesity, you'll play a pivotal role in advancing Novo Nordisk's global obesity strategy across International Operations (IO)—covering all markets outside the U.S. You'll operate at the scientific forefront, turning the latest research into meaningful medical advances, while ensuring our approach to obesity is rooted in evidence, empathy, and excellence.

You'll serve as a trusted scientific partner across regions and functions—shaping how we engage with healthcare professionals, key opinion leaders, and patients. Your work will directly influence how obesity is understood, treated, and prioritized in more than 190 countries.

Your key responsibilities will be:

• Lead the execution of medical strategy and tactics for obesity across IO, ensuring tight alignment with global medical and development priorities.
• Champion obesity as a serious, chronic disease, while integrating insights across the broader cardiometabolic portfolio.
• Partner with regional and affiliate Medical Affairs teams to strengthen medical education, scientific exchange, and patient journey insights.
• Represent market and regional perspectives in global forums—to shape clinical development and communication strategies.
• Drive high-impact scientific engagement with thought leaders, academic institutions, and professional societies to elevate the global narrative around obesity.

You will also support RWE and data generation initiatives in collaboration with global and local teams, aligning with medical and access goals. Operate effectively in a global, matrixed environment, partnering across Medical, Clinical, Commercial, and Access functions. This is a role for someone who brings both intellectual rigor and relentless dedication—someone ready to go the extra mile to deliver strong results and make a lasting difference, all within a supportive, values-driven environment that champions sustain-able high performance.

Please note: For roles at this level within IO Strategic Operations, international mobility within a three-five year horizon is expected.

Your New Team

You'll join the IO Cardiometabolic Medical & Scientific Affairs team—a dynamic, mission-driven group at the heart of Novo Nordisk's fastest-growing therapeutic area. Reporting to the Senior Director, Medical Affairs Obesity, you'll be part of a global network of medical leaders shaping the future of care for people living with obesity and related conditions.

Based in Zurich, Switzerland, you'll work from our International Operations Strategic Office—a hub for innovation, talent development, and cross-regional collaboration. As part of Novo Nordisk's Talent Incubator, this role offers exceptional exposure to global strategy and the chance to build an international network that can accelerate your career.

Your Skills & Qualifications

We're looking for a scientifically rigorous, strategically agile, and highly collaborative leader who thrives where medicine, science, and business impact intersect.

What you bring:

• MD preferred, or an advanced scientific degree with 7+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry – ideally, though not mandatorily, in obesity, endocrinology, or cardiometabolic diseases.
• Proven track record in Medical Affairs, including experience in pre-launch planning, scientific communication, and stakeholder engagement.
• Solid understanding of clinical development pathways, regulatory frameworks (EMA/FDA), and real-world evidence generation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence without formal authority in a global matrix.
• Exceptional scientific communication, analytical thinking, and presentation skills—with the ability to distill complex data into clear, compelling narratives.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and deep commitment to improving outcomes for people living with obesity.

Above all, you combine scientific depth with strategic execution, and you believe—wholeheartedly—that obesity deserves the same seriousness, investment, and innovation as any other chronic disease.

Working at Novo Nordisk

At Novo Nordisk, we don't just treat diseases—we redefine what's possible. For over a century, our "unordinary" mindset has driven us to challenge conventions, champion patients, and pursue science with purpose.

We know careers aren't linear—and lives aren't one-size-fits-all. That's why we foster a culture of mutual respect, curiosity, and sustainable high performance, where your growth matters as much as our mission. Here, dedication is valued. You'll be part of a global community united by a simple truth: Together, we're life-changing.

What We Offer

Beyond a competitive compensation package, we offer continuous learning, global mobility opportunities, and a people-first culture. Our benefits are thoughtfully designed to support both your professional ambitions and personal well-being—at every stage of your journey.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're ready to lead with science, collaborate with purpose, and help transform the future of obesity care, we'd love to hear from you.

To submit your application, please upload your CV in English (click on Apply and follow the instructions).

Deadline

Apply by 28th October 2025

Novo Nordisk is currently in the process of adjusting job titles globally. Please note that the job title listed in this advertisement may be subject to change. More detailed information will be provided during the recruitment process.

Novo Nordisk is not your typical healthcare company. In a modern world of quick fixes, we focus on solutions to defeat serious chronic diseases and promote long-term health. Our unordinary mindset is at the heart of everything we do. We seek out new ideas and put people first as we push the boundaries of science, make healthcare more accessible, and treat, prevent, and even cure diseases that affect millions of lives. Because it takes an unordinary approach to drive real, lasting change in health.