Pros
In the shrinking pharmaceutical sales industry, Novartis still manages to offer compensation and benefits that are competitive, if not slightly better, than other major pharma companies.
Cons
I can't speak for divisions outside of Novartis Pharmaceuticals, but my hope is that they aren't as dysfunctional. -Extremely "political" environment, where rewards, recognition, advancement, etc. don't occur unless you kiss a ton of a*$, including the District Manager's and Regional Director's. -A management and director level (non)talent pool that is less qualified to give guidance and direction than the reps. that they are trying to lead. -Total disconnect between management beyond the Regional Director level and the people bringing the money into the company - THE SALES FORCE! Corporate should try asking us for our honest opinions about things instead of buying the "everythings is great" answer from DMs and RDs all the time. -The continuous launch of products into a marketplace with no demand for them and the pressure to perform with mediocre drugs in your bag that have little clinical data to support their use. Although I could go on, I think you get the picture!