I am an Advanced Production Specialist specialising in Education and Training within aseptic services. My role is to develop the workforce so we can continue to deliver safe, high-quality medicines in a complex and highly regulated environment. I am passionate about helping colleagues build both technical competence and a strong understanding of quality, compliance and patient safety. For me, leadership is about creating a culture where people feel supported, confident and empowered to develop.

My career in pharmacy wasn't planned. I started as a shop assistant in a community pharmacy and quickly discovered that I enjoyed the pace, teamwork and the opportunity to help people. That experience inspired me to pursue a career in pharmacy, and after moving into hospital pharmacy I explored a range of services before discovering aseptic services, where I found a real sense of purpose.

I was drawn to the precision and responsibility that comes with preparing medicines in a highly specialised environment. Although I don't meet patients directly, I know that the work I do plays an important role in ensuring they receive safe and effective treatment. As my career progressed, I realised I found just as much satisfaction in supporting others as I did in carrying out the technical aspects of the role myself.

Today, my focus is on developing people. I lead through coaching, mentoring and sharing knowledge, while helping colleagues develop confidence, technical expertise and a strong quality mindset. The most rewarding part of my role is seeing someone grow from being unsure of their abilities into a skilled and confident practitioner who understands not only how to carry out the work, but why maintaining the highest standards matters for every patient.

Technical Services has given me opportunities I never expected when I first started in community pharmacy. My advice to anyone considering this career is to stay curious, embrace every opportunity to learn and remember that developing others can be just as rewarding as developing your own career.