Steffen Lang
President Operations Novartis
ABOUT THE WINNER
Steffen Lang is a Member of the Executive Committee and President of Operations at Novartis, where he leads a global team of over 20,000 associates committed to delivering high-quality medicines and innovative technology solutions to the entire enterprise.
Every morning, Steffen wakes up excited to dive into his work, driven by the mission to reimagine medicine and make a real difference in people’s lives. Knowing that Novartis medicines reach millions of patients worldwide is something he holds close to his heart.
Steffen’s career spans from R&D to manufacturing. He has a deep passion for empowering his team to advance science, technology, and sustainability. He continues to be energized by collaboration, the transformative power of medicine, and a strong sense of responsibility to people and the planet.
Congratulations, Steffen Lang!
Case Study Highlights
Steffen Lang is guiding Novartis Operations toward a future defined by agility, resilience, and purpose. A standout digital transformation is their AI-driven sales forecasting, live in 20+ countries with 93% accuracy. It frees planners for strategy and enhances supply chain reliability.
Automation at sites like Changping has saved over 20,000 manual hours annually. Machine learning slashed false reject rates and improved equipment use. Predictive forecasting, robotics, and smart storage ensure operational excellence and faster access to treatments.
Lang’s leadership unites bold sustainability goals with business impact. Since 2016, Novartis has cut emissions by 71%, waste by 72%, and water use by 57%. They’re over 95% powered by renewables and on track for net-zero by 2040.
He credits success to a high-performing team fueled by ownership and innovation. Programs like the Green Team forum empower local initiatives. For Lang, sustainability lives not just in operations but in culture and purpose.
