Monica Watson

Monica Watson
Executive Director, Head of US Employment Law for Oncology Division
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation

Monica has over 17 years of legal experience and is currently both a Commercial attorney and Head of US Employment for Novartis Oncology. She is the Oncology Business Unit's representative on the Novartis COVID Task Force. She is head and an active member of the Ethnic Pillar of the Oncology Diversity & Inclusion Council and she continues to serve on the Day of Reflection Steering Committee, which focuses on the education and celebration of Juneteenth. She is also a formal/informal mentor to a number of Novartis associates.
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Monica is most proud of playing a critical part in launching Novartis’ More Than Just Words campaign, a multiyear commitment to promoting health equity in breast cancer care, where there is a significant unmet need. While providing guidance and leadership to the team as they navigated unchartered territory for the organization, Monica took ownership of the artistry and penned the spoken word that serves as the campaign’s platform for breast cancer screenings in the Black community. The piece featuring Monica’s words and voiceover has received notable recognition across the globe.
Monica also volunteers in her local community and was elected, and recently re-elected in November 2021, as her School Board President. Given the recent pandemic and the impact that has had on schools, Monica has not been immune to the political turmoil and threats of enraged parents on issues like masking and vaccines. Like many women, Monica finds a way to delicately balance the demands of her role, her family, and her community responsibilities.