BASEL—Sreejit Mohan has been named global head of external communications at pharmaceutical giant Novartis. The role is a new one, and will integrate the digital and traditional functions of external communications for Novartis, developing integrated communications strategies that combine content, digital engagement and media relations and thought leadership.

Mohan was most recently the first global head of communications for Novartis’ global drug development organization. In his new role, he draws on corporate, scientific and commercial communications experience in both Europe and the US, having led programs spanning both internal and external communications, including implementing a global change communications program that supported the successful establishment of GDD at Novartis.

Mohan joined Novartis in 2012 and has also served as the global head of franchise communications at Sandoz, a Novartis Company. During his time with Sandoz, he strengthened internal and external communications while leading a multi-year global external affairs initiative to shape a favorable market environment for biosimilars. He also played an important leadership role in the successful launch of the first biosimilar in the US.

He began his communications career at FleishmanHillard in the US He also spent time at Bayer Healthcare leading communications and public policy for the biologics business out of Berkeley, Cal.