Deputy Chief Pharmacist

Job Description

Join Us as Deputy Chief Pharmacist at UHSussex
At UHSussex (UHSx), we’re more than just a healthcare provider—we’re a vibrant community dedicated to putting patients at the heart of everything we do. As a university trust leading in research and innovation, we foster an environment where learning and growth are encouraged from day one. We celebrate diversity, ensuring everyone feels valued and supported through our staff networks, buddy programs, and comprehensive wellbeing initiatives. Whether it’s flexible working options to balance life and career or access to extensive training, we prioritize your wellbeing so you can focus on delivering exceptional care. We’re proud to hold Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) status and be a Veteran Aware Trust, treating our team with the same empathy we show our patients. If you’re looking for a fulfilling, long-term career where your contributions truly matter, UHSx could be the perfect fit.

About the Role

We’re seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking pharmacy leader to step into the position of Deputy Chief Pharmacist. In this key leadership role, you’ll collaborate closely with the Chief Pharmacist and the Pharmacy Board to shape and implement our trust’s strategy, focusing on optimizing medicine use, aligning with national goals, and upholding strict regulatory standards. You’ll oversee a talented team of pharmacy experts spread across various hospital sites, promoting an inclusive atmosphere that emphasizes ongoing learning, high performance, and creative problem-solving.

This position offers the chance to deputize for the Chief Pharmacist in high-level discussions within the trust and broader regional groups, where you’ll shape policies, enhance service models, and champion quality enhancements. If you’re passionate about strategic initiatives and eager to elevate patient outcomes through innovative pharmacy practices, this is your opportunity to leave a meaningful mark.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the go-to specialist for medicines optimization at our sites, taking on authority delegated by the Chief Pharmacist.
• Step in for the Chief Pharmacist to deliver forward-looking strategic guidance and expert oversight for medicines optimization, serving both internal teams and external partners.
• Oversee the delivery of pharmacy services that prioritize patient needs, emphasizing safety, forward progress, efficiency, and adherence to financial limits, all carried out by skilled professionals.
• Champion ongoing enhancements and fresh ideas in pharmacy operations, integrating best practices in quality assurance and research & innovation.
• Guide the professional growth and leadership development for pharmacy staff across the board.
• Handle audits, research projects, and evaluations tied to medicines optimization at designated locations.
• Spearhead planning for major pharmacy projects, evaluating needed resources and their broader effects on the trust.
• Build strong relationships with key players to elevate medicines optimization standards throughout the organization.
• Take charge of business development, crafting compelling proposals and securing funding for new resources through data-driven analysis, studies, quotes, and existing agreements.
• Regularly review and refine service models and team roles for optimal effectiveness.
• Act as the pharmacy’s voice in trust-wide meetings and partner with colleagues inside and outside the organization, including fellow NHS entities and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs).
• Manage the designated budget for pharmacy operations at RSCH and PRH sites.
• Participate actively as a member of the Pharmacy Board.

Additional Perks and Requirements

We offer a robust wellbeing program tailored to support you during challenging times, along with opportunities for flexible schedules to help maintain work-life harmony. As a hub for healthcare education and research, we’ll invest in your professional journey, helping you advance and thrive.

For international candidates, this role qualifies for sponsorship via the UK Visas & Immigration Skilled Worker route, provided you meet UKVI’s criteria, such as skill levels, salary minimums, and any job-specific needs. If applying with a Graduate visa, ensure at least 18 months remain on it at the time of submission.

Ready to embark on this rewarding path? Check out our Candidate Information Pack for more details: https://www.uhsussex.nhs.uk/resources/candidate-information-pack/

We can’t wait to welcome you to the UHSx family and see the positive difference you’ll bring. Apply today!