Chief Pharmacist

Job summary We are seeking an exceptional and visionary Chief Pharmacist to lead the strategic development of medicines optimisation across a progressive NHS Ambulance Trust. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced senior pharmacy leader to influence patient care across urgent, emergency and integrated healthcare services, ensuring the safe, effective and innovative use of medicines within a dynamic pre-hospital environment. As Chief Pharmacist, you will provide professional leadership, strategic direction and expert advice to the Trust Board, Executive Directors and clinical teams on all aspects of medicines optimisation, governance and pharmaceutical services. Main duties of the job The Chief Pharmacist is responsible for developing and delivering the Trust's medicines strategy and ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, professional standards and NHS requirements. You will: Act as the Trust's Chief Pharmacist. Provide expert pharmaceutical advice to the Board and Executive Team. Lead medicines optimisation, medicines governance and controlled drugs management. Ensure compliance with Care Quality Commission (CQC), General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), NHS England and controlled drugs regulations. Develop innovative approaches to medicines use within pre-hospital and urgent care services. Work with the MSO to lead antimicrobial stewardship and medicines safety programmes. Oversee medication incident reporting, investigations and learning. Establish effective medicines governance systems across all clinical services. Work collaboratively with Integrated Care Systems (ICSs), acute trusts, community providers and commissioners. Lead and develop the pharmacy and medicines management workforce. Support research, innovation and digital transformation initiatives relating to medicines management. For further information and to discuss any aspects of the role, please contact Andy Cooke, Current postholder. Email: Andrew.cooke@eastamb.nhs.uk Mobile: 07761 446966 or Paul Gates, Deputy Chief Paramedic (Line manager) at paul.gates@eastamb.nhs.uk About us You'll have the opportunity to work in one of the most diverse regions in the country, with the vibrant capital city just a stone's throw away and the invigorating North Sea coast to the east. The East of England offers a unique blend of innovation and opportunity, surrounded by picturesque countryside, historic towns, and quick access to both the bustling capital and serene coastlines. At EEAST we bring together all our skills to provide 24 hour, 365 days a year urgent care to those in need of emergency and non-emergency medical treatment and transport in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. We are always looking to innovate our approaches and work together to offer the best possible patient care across our counties. We aim to represent and value the diversity of our local communities through our workforce and service provision. We therefore positively encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as Black, Asian, or other ethnic groups, individuals with a Disability, or LGBTQ+ individuals who meet the specific criteria. We at EEAST want to support our employees achieve a balance between work and other priorities, such as caring responsibilities, family commitments, further learning, and other interests. We therefore welcome flexible working requests. Details Date posted 29 September 2026 Pay scheme Agenda for change Band Band 8c Salary £79,504 to £91,609 a year per annum Contract Permanent Working pattern Full-time Reference number 247-SS-ChiefPharm-0926 Job locations Letchworth Ambulance Station Letchworth Gate Letchworth Garden City SG6 2AZ United Kingdom Job description Job responsibilities For a thorough and comprehensive understanding of the role, including all its specific requirements and responsibilities, please consult the attached Job Description and