Lead Pharmacist Ophthalmology
NHS Lothian Pharmacy & Medicines Service
St Johns / Princess Alexendra Eye Pavillon
Band 8A | 1.0 WTE | 37 Hours | Permanent (including weekend, late night and public holiday rota commitments)
An Exciting Opportunity to Shape Ophthalmology Pharmacy Services
NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination, ensuring workforce is truly representative and employees feel respected. NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.
From 1st April 2026, the Agenda for Change full‑time working week will reduce from 37 to 36 hours per week. Part‑time hours will be reduced pro‑rata, with a corresponding increase in hourly rate so pay is unaffected.
Please note: we anticipate high interest and may close the vacancy early once sufficient applications are received. Submit your application early.
We fully support disabled candidates, long‑term condition or neurodivergent candidates by making reasonable adjustments to recruitment practices.
To work in the UK, a legal requirement for appropriate work permission exists. This is granted by the UK Visa and Immigration Service.
AI tools like ChatGPT or Copilot may help with planning your application, but answers must be your own.
Your Role Will Include
* Providing expert clinical input and leadership within multidisciplinary teams.
* Collaborating with the Lauriston dispensary team to support safe, efficient medicines supply for ophthalmology and associated specialist services, contributing to a resilient and joined‑up model of care.
* Leading medicines optimisation and cost‑effective prescribing for ophthalmology.
* Reviewing and implementing national guidance and local policy for eye‑care treatments.
* Supporting safe and effective use of high‑cost ophthalmology medicines (e.g. intravitreal injections, glaucoma therapies).
* Driving quality improvement initiatives and patient‑centred care across ophthalmology pathways.
Why Join Us?
This is a great time to join us, with investment into ophthalmology pharmacy and the development of stronger links across the service. You’ll be part of a friendly, expanding team that spans clinical and dispensary environments, giving you the opportunity to shape service improvements and influence how the wider team evolves. You will also play a key role in supporting and developing our new Band 7 pharmacist at PAEP.
At NHS Lothian, we value innovation, teamwork, and professional growth. As part of our pharmacy team, you’ll benefit from:
* The opportunity to lead impactful projects that directly improve patient outcomes and service delivery.
* A collaborative and supportive environment, where your ideas and expertise are valued.
* Access to advanced clinical learning and leadership development opportunities.
About You
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic pharmacist with a passion for delivering exceptional clinical care.
Essential Qualifications And Competencies
* Master of Pharmacy Degree (or equivalent).
* Registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
* Independent Prescribing Qualification.
* Postgraduate Clinical Pharmacy Diploma or Masters of Science (MSc) in Clinical Pharmacy or evidence of progress against the RPS Core Advanced Pharmacist Curriculum.
* Candidates who have not completed a Postgraduate Clinical Pharmacy Diploma or MSc in Clinical Pharmacy must demonstrate substantial progress across the four pillars of the RPS Core Advanced Pharmacist Curriculum. This includes:
o Engagement with the RPS Core Advanced Curriculum.
o Active participation in a community of practice/peer network.
o Submission of a screenshot of portfolio (programme of learning page).
o Completion of the assessment to evaluate progress with the Core Advanced Curriculum and identify gaps for PDP plans.
* Candidates who have completed a Postgraduate Clinical Pharmacy Diploma or MSc in Clinical Pharmacy should complete the learning needs analysis (LNA) using the LNA tool in the RPS e‑portfolio, identifying any gaps that will need to be addressed as part of PDP plans.
Experience and Knowledge
* Proven ability to lead and develop clinical services.
* Strong communication and problem‑solving skills.
* Experience working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
About NHS Lothian
Serving a population of 900,000 across Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian, and West Lothian. As Scotland’s second‑largest health system, we are one of four teaching Boards, fostering strong partnerships with universities and research institutions. Our Pharmacy & Medicines Service is committed to delivering clinically led, person‑centred care, ensuring the best outcomes for patients.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
For further information on what is included in the role and the skills/experience we’re looking for, please refer to the job description and person specification linked below. If you’d like to learn more about this exciting role, the team you’ll be joining, or the opportunities available, we encourage you to get in touch with the hiring manager. This is a great chance to have an informal discussion, ask questions, and explore how this role aligns with your career goals. The service will also consider flexible working where it can be accommodated.
Contact: Patrick Downie, Site Lead Pharmacist, SJH/PAEP, 07951 770556.
Make your mark on the future of hospital pharmacy – apply today!
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