MONTREAL, November 25, 2025 — Leads & Copy — Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. has announced the appointment of Dimitri Gitas as Country President, effective December 1, 2025. Gitas brings over 20 years of experience in life sciences and healthcare, with leadership roles in Canada, the United States, Greece, Poland, and Switzerland, where he most recently served as Managing Director for MSD.
In his new role, Gitas will oversee Novartis Canada’s strategy and operations, focusing on developing innovative healthcare solutions for patients’ evolving needs. The company’s four primary therapeutic areas of focus include Oncology, Immunology, Neuroscience, and Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic diseases.
Gitas expressed his enthusiasm about joining Novartis and returning to Canada, stating, “I’m energized to join a company whose legacy is built on such bold innovation. I look forward to working alongside our teams and collaborating with federal and provincial leaders to strengthen the life sciences sector and ensure Canadian patients have timely access to the medicines they need.”
Gitas will make his first public appearance in Montreal on November 27, where Novartis is set to announce the winners of the Novartis Health Equity Initiative.
Gitas succeeds Mark Vineis, who has transitioned to a new role within Novartis.
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. employs approximately 500 people and invests over $30 million in R&D annually in Canada.
Contact:
Dimitri Gitas
Country President
Source: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.
Source: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.
