Pharmacy Procurement & Distribution Supervisor

Job overview

Band 4/5 depending on experience

We are seeking an enthusiastic and proactive individual to join the Pharmacy team at Great Western Hospital as a Pharmacy Procurement & Distribution Supervisor, offering the opportunity to develop leadership skills while contributing to a high‑impact, patient‑focused medicines supply service.

This role is open to applicants from either a Pharmacy or Procurement background. Applicants must be either:

• A Registered Pharmacy Technician with the GPhC (or actively working towards registration) or • Hold a CIPS Level 4 Diploma or above (or demonstrable progress towards) with ongoing professional development in procurement or supply chain management.

The post is offered at Band 5, with the option of appointment at Band 4 on a development basis for candidates who demonstrate strong potential. A supported development plan will be in place, with progression to Band 5 subject to achievement of agreed competencies, experience and qualifications.

If this role interests you, we would encourage you to get in touch for an informal chat or to arrange a visit to meet the team and learn more.

Main duties of the job

• To support the effective procurement, stock control, storage and distribution of medicines to ensure continuity of supply and patient safety across the Trust.
• To manage ordering activity, supplier relationships and medicine shortages, ensuring adherence to contracts, governance requirements and value‑for‑money principles.
• To provide day‑to‑day supervision and operational leadership for Pharmacy Procurement, Stores and Distribution staff.
• To support compliance with Good Distribution Practice (EU GDP) and WDA requirements, including preparation for internal and external audits and delivery of staff training.
• To contribute to the development, review and implementation of procurement and distribution procedures that improve efficiency, quality and resilience.
• To work collaboratively with pharmacy, clinical and non‑clinical colleagues to support medicines optimisation, dispensary services and patient care when required.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The post plays a key role in ensuring the safe, timely and cost‑effective procurement, storage and distribution of medicines across the Trust, in line with medicines legislation and Good Distribution Practice (EU GDP).

The post holder will provide operational leadership across Pharmacy Procurement, Stores and Distribution, supervising staff, coordinating workload, managing medicines supply risks, and contributing to service improvement. The role also supports delegations under the Trust’s Wholesaler Distribution Authorisation (WDA) and works closely with the Responsible Person to maintain full regulatory compliance.

Please see attached job description for full details.