Deputy head of quality, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
As Deputy Quality Assurance Manager, I support the strategic leadership of pharmaceutical quality systems across multiple aseptic units within our Trust. My role focuses on ensuring our quality systems remain robust, compliant and responsive to both current regulatory requirements and the future needs of Technical Services.
I lead and develop a multidisciplinary Quality Assurance team, helping to build the skills and resilience needed to deliver consistently high-quality services. I also work closely with Aseptic Unit Managers, senior pharmacy leaders and colleagues across the organisation to oversee governance, monitor quality performance and ensure a consistent approach to quality across multiple sites.
A key part of my role involves shaping how our quality systems continue to evolve. This includes supporting clinical trial set-up, new facility developments, inspection readiness and service improvement projects. I also keep up to date with national developments, contribute to regional quality networks and identify best practice that can strengthen our local services.
Completing the Scientist Training Programme (STP) in Pharmaceutical Science gave me a strong grounding in both the scientific and practical aspects of Pharmacy Technical Services. I chose this career because it combines my passion for science with leadership, patient safety and continuous improvement. It is an exciting field that continues to evolve as new medicines, technologies and treatments emerge.
Although my role is largely behind the scenes, I value knowing that the work our teams do directly supports the delivery of life-changing treatments. Helping to shape the future of quality systems while supporting colleagues to deliver safe, effective services is what makes this career so rewarding.
