Interim Deputy Procurement and Distribution Lead | Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

The Great Western Hospitals NHS FT; Swindon; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading NHS hospital in Swindon is looking for a Senior Pharmacy Technician to manage procurement and distribution within the department. This dynamic role involves overseeing the daily operations, coordination of stock and orders, and ensuring compliance with medical regulations. Candidates must have an NVQ Level 3 in Pharmacy Services, a BTEC in Pharmaceutical Science, and excellent interpersonal skills. The position offers a chance to develop your career in a supportive and busy healthcare environment. Closing date for applications is 31 Dec 2025.

Qualifications

• Experience in Pharmacy Procurement & Distribution is essential.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required.
• Registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate Pharmacy Stores and Distribution operations.
• Oversee ordering processes to maintain essential stock.
• Assist in training staff and maintaining standard operating procedures.
• Manage off-contract claims and procurement of medical gases.

Skills

Pharmacy Procurement & Distribution

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Flexibility

Adaptability

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Pharmacy Services

BTEC in Pharmaceutical Science

Job description

Job Overview

If you are a Senior Pharmacy Technician with a passion for Procurement & Distribution, this is a great opportunity to develop your career.

The role is diverse, exciting and responsible and will appeal to career-minded individuals.

The successful candidate will be expected to work in a dynamic and flexible way within the Procurement and Distribution team to manage the smooth and effective running of the department in a busy NHS Hospital.

You will support the Procurement & Distribution Lead in the management of the team and oversee the day to day running of the department, organising and monitoring the performance of staff to maintain an efficient and safe service. The post holder will act as a Deputy Responsible person and will be integral to the on-going maintenance of the wholesalers’ dealers’ and home office licences and successful re‑inspections.

Secondment opportunities are available for this post. If you would like to discuss this role further or organise an informal/virtual visit then do not hesitate to get in touch.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the Pharmacy Stores and Distribution operations including receipting goods, safe custody and security, correct storage, rotation of stock, issues, returns to suppliers and regular stock checks.
• Coordinate the ordering process to ensure that we do not run out of any essential items, helping to place orders with contracted or most cost‑effective suppliers.
• Oversee the to‑follow process; ensure items outstanding on orders are chased and manage sorting out solutions to shortages such as ordering different brands.
• Manage any off‑contract claims.
• Assist the Procurement & Distribution Lead in ensuring there are adequate and up‑to‑date written training manuals for all areas, assist staff in following the correct standard operating procedures and have in place an induction programme for all new staff.
• Keep pharmacy staff informed about major stock availability problems and promptly notify officers of significant delays or shortages, arranging alternative sources of supply when appropriate.
• Assist the Responsible Person and Procurement & Distribution Lead in the preparation, implementation and the on‑going maintenance of wholesalers’ dealers’, all aspects of Good Distribution Practice (EU GDP 2013/C 343/01) and Home Office licences. Complete delegated duties from the Responsible Person and have advanced specialist knowledge of EU GDP.
• Assist the Procurement & Distribution Lead in the procurement and on‑going quality assurance of medical gases in line with national professional standards, including risk management associated with the storage and handling of medical gas cylinders.

Qualifications & Experience

Candidates should have experience and an interest in Pharmacy Procurement & Distribution, excellent communication & interpersonal skills; be motivated, flexible, adaptable and able to work well in an environment of change and transition.

You will need to have an NVQ Level 3 in Pharmacy Services and a BTEC in Pharmaceutical Science (or equivalent qualification and underpinning knowledge) and be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council.

Professional Values

Service, Teamwork, Ambition and Respect – are a golden thread running through everything we do. These values serve as a guiding principle, driving us towards our vision of delivering great joined‑up services to our local community. Whether at home, in the community, or within the hospital, our goal is to empower individuals to lead independent and healthier lives.

Closing Information

This advert closes on Wednesday 31 Dec 2025.