Novartis also will combine its technical operations and customer and technology solutions units to create a new operations unit. This new unit will provide a stronger and simpler operational backbone that can accelerate multiple technology transformation initiatives more efficiently, create novel digital solutions at scale and increase productivity while maintaining industry-leading quality and service levels, according to the company. Effective immediately, Steffen Lang, currently global head of Novartis technical operations, will become president of operations reporting to Narasimhan. In addition, all G&A functions — finance, people and organization, ethics, risk and compliance, legal, and communications and engagement — will be integrated on global and country levels.