Job Description
Role Overview
An exciting new leadership opportunity has been created for an experienced pharmacist to take on the role of Lead Advanced Pharmacist for Women’s Services. This position has been introduced to strengthen specialist pharmacy leadership and ensure high standards of medicines use across maternity, gynaecology, maternal medicine, and neonatal care.
You will play a central role in shaping and delivering pharmacy services for women, pregnant individuals, and newborns—ensuring medicines are used safely, effectively, and in line with national guidance.
About the Organisation
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest NHS trusts in the country, providing acute and specialist services across multiple hospital sites.
The Trust is recognised for its inclusive culture and commitment to delivering “Excellent Care Everywhere.” Staff are supported through strong professional networks, development opportunities, and a focus on wellbeing and diversity.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Leadership
- Lead and develop specialist pharmacy services across Women’s Services
Provide expert clinical advice in maternity, gynaecology, maternal medicine, and neonatal care
Work as an independent prescriber, managing complex and high-risk medicines
Medicines Optimisation & Safety
- Ensure safe prescribing practices, including use of specialist and unlicensed medicines
Support medicines optimisation during pregnancy, postnatal care, and breastfeeding
Promote patient safety through evidence-based practice
Governance & Quality
- Lead medicines governance, including audits, incident reviews, and risk management
Develop and implement clinical guidelines and care pathways
Align practice with national healthcare standards
Service Development
- Use prescribing data and incident learning to drive service improvements
Support cross-site standardisation of pharmacy services
Contribute to workforce development and staff training
Collaboration
- Work closely with multidisciplinary teams including obstetrics, neonatology, midwifery, and anaesthetics
Engage with regional networks, commissioners, and external partners
Support integration with primary care and community pharmacy
What We Offer
- A senior leadership role with real influence on service design
Opportunities to shape a newly established specialist position
Access to professional development and leadership pathways
Inclusive working culture with strong staff support networks
Flexible working and wellbeing initiatives
Person Requirements
Essential
- Registered Pharmacist with the General Pharmaceutical Council
Advanced clinical knowledge (post-diploma level or equivalent)
Independent prescribing qualification (NMP)
Significant experience in acute hospital pharmacy
Experience with medicines use in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
Desirable
- Experience in women’s services or neonatal pharmacy
Involvement in audit, research, or guideline development
Membership of specialist groups (e.g. NPPG or UKCPA Women’s Health)
Experience contributing to formularies or clinical protocols
Important Information
Visa Sponsorship
This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route (subject to meeting criteria):
Right to Work
Applicants must meet UK work eligibility requirements
DBS Requirement
Overseas Applicants
- Criminal record checks may be required for applicants from outside the UK
Careers & Professional Guidance
Final Thoughts
This is a unique opportunity to take on a strategic and clinical leadership role within a large and progressive NHS Trust. You will have the chance to shape pharmacy services in Women’s Health, influence patient outcomes, and contribute to safer, more effective care across multiple hospital sites.