At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead pharmacy distribution services and ensure efficient delivery of medicines.
- Company: Join UCLH, the top NHS trust in England for staff satisfaction.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a commitment to sustainability and equality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patient care while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Registered Technician or Pharmacist with management experience.
The predicted salary is between 66274 - 73496 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Pharmacy technician or Pharmacist to lead our Pharmacy Distribution Service. The ideal candidate will be forward-thinking, with a strong commitment to delivering exceptional service to our customers and, ultimately, our patients. This newly created role comes as part of a restructuring initiative within Pharmacy Distribution Centre at University College London Hospitals (UCLH).
UCLH operates an offsite pharmacy warehouse, which holds a wholesaler license with the MHRA and is licensed by the Home Office to supply controlled drugs. The unit manages an annual expenditure of over 210 million. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the efficient distribution of medicines and managing the Brewery Road site. They will also serve as the Deputy Responsible Person (RP) for the MHRA Wholesaler License.
In addition to providing medicines to all areas of UCLH, the service extends to multiple external customers, including other local NHS trusts. The post-holder will also assist the Director of Pharmacy Operations in maintaining and developing pharmacy services across the Trust as part of a strategic working group.
Main duties of the job:
- Lead the strategic development of pharmacy medicines distribution services to UCLH and external customers, aligning with local, regional, and national requirements and priorities.
- Develop and implement a distribution strategy to ensure efficient, cost-effective delivery of medicines that meet quality standards, are available when needed, and provide the best value for money.
- Deliver an effective, high-quality medicines distribution service in compliance with all professional and regulatory standards, supporting UCLH NHS Foundation Trust and relevant external clients.
- Communicate complex information both internally within the pharmacy and externally with regulators (MHRA, Home Office). Strong communication and negotiation skills will be essential to influence decision-making.
- Take responsibility for site management, including oversight of all on-site equipment and facilities.
- Build and maintain proactive strategic relationships with stakeholders, including suppliers, NHS partners, commissioners, and NHS bodies such as NHS Improvement.
- Train and develop the team to provide an expert, high-quality, stakeholder-focused service.
- Oversee Pharmacy Distribution services, which involve managing orders and approving invoices worth approximately 210 million annually.
- Lead investigations and resolution of Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) to ensure compliance with Good Distribution Practice regulations.
About us:
University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH) is one of the most complex NHS trusts in the UK, serving a large and diverse population. We provide academically led acute and specialist services, to people from the local area, from throughout the United Kingdom and overseas. Our vision is to deliver top-quality patient care, excellent education, and world-class research.
We provide first-class acute and specialist services across eight sites:
- University College Hospital (incorporating the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Wing)
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery
- Royal National ENT and Eastman Dental Hospitals
- University College Hospital Grafton Way Building
- Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine
- University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases
- University College Hospital at Westmoreland Street
We are dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of many complex illnesses. UCLH specialises in women's health and the treatment of cancer, infection, neurological, gastrointestinal and oral disease. It has world class support services including critical care, imaging, nuclear medicine and pathology.
We are committed to sustainability and have pledged to become a carbon net zero health service, embedding sustainable practice throughout UCLH. We have set an ambitious target of net zero for our direct emissions by 2031 and indirect emissions by 2040.
Person Specification:
Knowledge and Qualifications:
- Registered Technician or Pharmacist with GHPC
- Relevant management underpinning knowledge/post graduate studies or equivalent (or working towards)
- Demonstrable post qualification experience in the NHS sector - preferably in a Pharmacy Distribution role
- Knowledge of finance systems and budget control processes
- Demonstratable significant post qualification work in an operational management capacity
- Desirable: MHRA Gold standard qualification
Experience:
- Implementation of strategies aimed at meeting Trust and pharmacy priorities
- Ability to reconcile national priorities with local realities.
- Evaluates service provision.
- Demonstrates awareness of and commitment to the principles of clinical governance
Skills and Abilities:
- Identifies novel ways of working to enhance services.
- Ability to analyse and critically appraise operational data.
- Ability to utilise database and other software packages to enhance work efficiency and to generate solutions to complex problems.
Values:
- Demonstrate ability to meet Trust Values of safety, kindness, teamwork and improving
Personal and People Development:
- Demonstrates ability to work and lead a multi-disciplinary team.
- Previous experience in delivering education and training at a postgraduate level.
Responsibilities towards promoting Equality Diversity and Inclusion:
- Demonstratable understanding of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion and/or Knowledge of NHS obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duties Act 2010
Specific Requirements:
- Participation in multidisciplinary health services research
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications.
Applicants must have current UK professional registration.
Operational Manager, Deputy RP & Site Manager employer: National Health Service
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for healthcare professionals in North Wales. With a commitment to employee development and a focus on compassionate care, staff have access to continuous professional development opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact in both acute and community paediatrics. The Health Board's integrated approach ensures that employees are part of a dynamic team dedicated to improving health outcomes for the local population.
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We think this is how you could land Operational Manager, Deputy RP & Site Manager
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We think you need these skills to ace Operational Manager, Deputy RP & Site Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at National Health Service.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at National Health Service.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to National Health Service. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at National Health Service. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Health Service
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
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Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research National Health Service’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
