Lead Pharmacist Neurology(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Role Overview

University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a skilled and motivated Lead Pharmacist in Neurology to join its expanding pharmacy team. This role provides a unique opportunity to support the development of specialist neurology services across multiple hospital sites, delivering advanced pharmaceutical care for both inpatient and outpatient neurology patients.

The Trust’s neurology services have undergone significant transformation in recent years, including the opening of the modern Louisa Martindale Building, which offers state-of-the-art facilities for neurological care. The successful candidate will contribute to delivering high-quality treatment while supporting innovative approaches to medicines management and service improvement.

This position would suit an experienced pharmacist with a strong clinical background and an interest in neurology, as well as Band 7 pharmacists who are ready to develop into a senior leadership role.

Key Responsibilities

Specialist Clinical Pharmacy Services

The post holder will provide expert pharmaceutical care across neurology services by:

• Delivering specialist clinical pharmacy input for neurology inpatients and outpatients
• Supporting safe prescribing and optimal use of neurological medicines
• Providing advice to medical, nursing, and multidisciplinary teams on complex medication regimens
• Contributing to medication review and therapeutic decision-making for patients with neurological conditions

Service Leadership and Development

You will support the leadership and strategic development of neurology pharmacy services by:

• Coordinating and evaluating clinical pharmacy services within the neurology division
• Contributing to service redesign and improvement initiatives
• Supporting implementation of the Trust’s pharmacy strategy
• Identifying opportunities for efficiency and cost-effective prescribing
•  NHS healthcare services and policy is available through

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

This role requires close collaboration with a wide range of healthcare professionals, including:

• Neurologists and specialist physicians
• Neuroscience nurses
• Allied health professionals
• Clinical pharmacists and pharmacy technicians

Through this collaboration, the Lead Pharmacist will support safe, evidence-based medicines management for patients with neurological conditions.

Clinical Governance and Quality Improvement

The role also contributes to improving patient safety and governance by:

• Supporting medication safety initiatives and audits
• Monitoring prescribing trends and outcomes
• Contributing to clinical guidelines and treatment protocols
• Ensuring compliance with national pharmacy standards

About the Organisation

University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest NHS trusts in the South East of England, delivering care to patients across multiple hospitals and community services.

The organisation is committed to delivering “Excellent Care Everywhere”, supported by an inclusive workplace culture and a focus on staff development. The Trust has been recognised as Outstanding for Caring by the Care Quality Commission and actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Essential Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate the following:

• Registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council as a UK pharmacist
• Experience working in hospital pharmacy practice
• Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Pharmacy Practice (or equivalent qualification)
• Strong clinical decision-making and patient-focused care

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

The following qualifications or experience would strengthen an application:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Pharmacy Practice or equivalent
• Independent Prescribing qualification
• MSc in Clinical Pharmacy or related field
• Experience working within neurology or specialist hospital services

Band 7 pharmacists with the required qualifications may be supported to progress to Band 8a level upon completion of an FS2 postgraduate diploma or equivalent training.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Candidates are expected to demonstrate a commitment to inclusive practice by:

• Promoting equality and diversity in healthcare environments
• Supporting inclusive care for diverse patient populations
• Continuing professional development in equality and inclusion awareness

Visa Sponsorship

This position may be eligible for sponsorship through the UK Skilled Worker visa route, subject to applicants meeting the required criteria for skill level, salary, and eligibility.

International applicants may also need to provide criminal record certificates for countries where they have lived for extended periods

Pre-Employment Requirements

Successful applicants will be required to complete:

• A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) background check
• Occupational health screening
• Verification of professional registration and employment history

A Career Opportunity in Neurology Pharmacy

This position offers a rewarding opportunity to work within a progressive and expanding neuroscience service, contributing to advanced patient care and service development.

Joining University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust will allow you to build your clinical expertise, lead service improvements, and support innovative neurology care within one of the UK’s largest NHS organisations.