The initiative reflects Novartis' culture of empowerment, inclusion, and diversity, and development in non-hierarchical and agile teams. "Young people have the opportunity to propose fresh and innovative ideas aimed at improving processes, promoting development, and adapting to the constantly changing environment. At the same time, we ourselves get to know the company's operations, its key challenges, and broader strategy better. This strengthens our commitment and understanding of the company as a whole, while also enabling us to better integrate into its vision and mission," highlights Špela as the direct benefits of the initiative.
The Novartis Young Advisory Board represents a bridge between the younger generation of employees and the company's leadership. It enables a better understanding of the market and the needs of younger customers, encourages innovation and creativity, and strengthens collaboration between different departments. This ensures comprehensive problem-solving and contributes to intergenerational cooperation within the company, which is crucial for long-term progress.
VIDEO
Young people have the opportunity to propose fresh ideas aimed at improving processes and innovation, while at the same time learning more about the workings of the company, which strengthens our sense of belonging.
Špela Mičunovič
Reimagining the future for a better tomorrow
The work of previous generations of the board in the areas of career development, sustainability, employee health, and corporate governance has laid a solid foundation for numerous initiatives that still shape the company's operations today. "The work of the Young Advisory Board takes place through carefully planned activities that maintain enough flexibility to adapt to different projects," explains Špela. Members, together with the leadership, select projects with the greatest potential – those that bring benefits to employees, improve organizational culture, and enhance Novartis' reputation in the public. The board meets monthly with the company's leadership to discuss the company's operations and possibilities for improvements and exchange objective feedback.
From diverse ideas to sustainable solutions
Špela sees the key advantage of participating in the Young Advisory Board in the exceptional power of one's own influence – the ability to turn one's ideas and vision into concrete changes that co-create the company's future. "The fact that we can contribute to improvements and create changes that have a real impact gives our role special value and represents strong motivation." The main challenge highlighted by the current board members is how to best realize numerous good ideas, ensure long-term effects, and at the same time achieve tangible results that leave a lasting mark within the limited one-year mandate.
Our different areas of work provide a broad range of experience and perspectives, leading to more comprehensive and informed solutions. The diversity of our skills fosters mutual learning and creates a dynamic environment where ideas are intertwined and strengthened.
Špela Mičunovič
"The various areas of our work provide a wide range of experiences and perspectives, leading to more comprehensive and thoughtful solutions. The diversity of our knowledge encourages mutual learning and creates a dynamic environment where ideas intertwine and strengthen," says Špela. The inspiring energy and group dynamics create an environment where experiences, perspectives, and knowledge connect, and the leadership accepts the proposals of young people with respect and genuine interest.
A space for growth, connection, and progress
Young people on the board develop key skills in collaboration, leadership, communication, and connecting diverse perspectives, which enrich the entire organization. They are constantly inspired by colleagues who create a culture of progress with their energy and knowledge.
The experience brings young people more than just an opportunity for personal and professional development – it reminds them that they are part of a community that pushes the boundaries of what is possible together. The Youth Advisory Board is a unique platform through which Novartis enables young people to contribute to advanced and sustainable solutions, while also learning and developing themselves in an open, inclusive, and diverse environment.
