Interim Deputy Procurement and Distribution Lead

Katalysysts Consulting; Swindon; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare consulting firm in Swindon is seeking a Senior Pharmacy Technician to manage procurement and distribution operations within an NHS Hospital. The successful candidate will oversee staff, ensure compliance with regulations, and handle the coordination of pharmacy operations. Essential qualifications include NVQ Level 3 in Pharmacy Services and current registration with the GPhC. This role also involves supervising training and managing stock to prevent shortages, making it essential for candidates to have previous hospital pharmacy experience.

Qualifications

• Must have NVQ Level 3 in Pharmacy Services or equivalent.
• Current registration as Pharmacy Technician is mandatory.
• Previous hospital experience in pharmacy supervision required.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate Pharmacy Stores and Distribution operations.
• Manage ordering processes to prevent stock shortages.
• Handle off-contract claims and resolve shortages.

Skills

Post-qualification hospital Pharmacy Technician experience

Knowledge of procurement & distribution legal requirements

Ability to organise teams

Conflict resolution skills

Education

NVQ / QCF Level 3 in Pharmacy Services

Current registration as Pharmacy Technician with GPhC

NVQ assessor to A1 standard

Accredited Checking Technician qualification

Job description

Job Summary

Senior Pharmacy Technician role focused on Procurement & Distribution within a busy NHS Hospital. The successful candidate will support the Lead in managing the department, supervising staff, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and licensing requirements.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate Pharmacy Stores and Distribution operations: receipting goods, safe custody, correct storage, rotation of stock, issuing, returns to suppliers, and regular stock checks.
• Manage ordering processes to prevent stock shortages, place orders with contracted or cost‑effective suppliers, and chase outstanding items.
• Handle off‑contract claims and resolve shortages by sourcing alternative brands.
• Assist with training: maintain written training manuals, design induction programmes, and oversee staff training on standard operating procedures.
• Inform staff of major stock issues, shortages, and arrange alternative supplies when necessary.
• Act as an accredited deputy responsible person, ensuring WDA licensed activities comply with Good Distribution Practice (EU GDP 2013/C 343/01) and Home Office licensing.
• Support the Lead in procurement and quality assurance of medical gases, including risk management for gas cylinder storage and handling.

Essential Qualifications

• NVQ / QCF Level 3 in Pharmacy Services or equivalent, with underpinning BTEC in Pharmaceutical Science (or equivalent).
• Current registration as Pharmacy Technician with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
• NVQ assessor to A1 standard or willingness to undertake training.
• Accredited Checking Technician qualification or willingness to obtain accreditation.

Desirable Qualifications

• NVQ Level 3 in Management or equivalent pharmacy management experience.
• Supervisory qualification.
• Recruitment and selection experience.
• Experience with external agencies and multidisciplinary teams.

Essential Experience

• Post‑qualification hospital Pharmacy Technician experience, including staff supervision or management.
• Knowledge of procurement & distribution legal requirements, protocols, and unlicensed medicine handling.
• Understanding of law, ethics, and dispensing regulations.
• Risk management and Health & Safety awareness.
• Recent hospital pharmacy procurement experience.
• Ability to organise teams and manage busy environments.
• Conflict resolution skills.

Desirable Experience

• Recruitment and selection experience.
• Project work and procedure development.
• Knowledge of Good Distribution Practice (EU GDP 2013/C 343/01) and related regulations.
• Experience with external agencies and multidisciplinary teams.

Additional Information

• Disclosure and Barring Service check required under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975.

• Applications for Skilled Worker visas are welcomed; please refer to NHS Careers and UK Visas and Immigration websites for details.

• Current UK professional registration is mandatory. For further information see the NHS Careers website.