237618 (LF) Lead Pharmacist

Lead Pharmacist – Ophthalmology

NHS Lothian Pharmacy & Medicines Service

Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion

Band 8A | 1.0 WTE | 37 Hours |Permanent

(including weekend, late night and public holiday rota commitments)

An Exciting Opportunity to Shape Ophthalmology Pharmacy Services

NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. To this end, NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.

As from 1st April 2026, the Agenda for Change full-time working week will be reducing from 37 to 36 hours per week. Part time hours will be reduced pro-rata. However, there will be a corresponding increase in the hourly rate so that pay will not be affected.

Please note: we anticipate a high level of interest in this position and may close the vacancy early once a sufficient amount of applications are received. Therefore, please make sure you complete and submit your application at an early stage.

We will fully support disabled candidates, and candidates with long-term conditions or who are neurodivergent by making reasonable adjustments to our recruitment policy and practices.

To work in the United Kingdom, there is a legal requirement for an individual to demonstrate that they have the relevant permission to work in the country. This permission is, without exception, granted by the UK Visa and Immigrations Service. Further information on what NHS Scotland Boards are required to do to check this as well as what your responsibilities include can be found in the further information for this vacancy.

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We are looking for a highly motivated and dynamic Lead Clinical Pharmacist to join Scotland’s only dedicated eye hospital, the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion (PAEP), and ophthalmology services across NHS Lothian.

This is a unique chance to lead and develop clinical pharmacy services for ophthalmology patients across inpatient, outpatient, and day surgery settings. You will be an integral member of a multidisciplinary team that values the pharmacist’s contribution to patient care.

Your role will include:

• Leading medicines optimisation and cost-effective prescribing for ophthalmology.
• Reviewing and implementing national guidance and local policy for eye care treatments.
• Supporting safe and effective use of high-cost ophthalmology medicines (e.g., intravitreal injections, glaucoma therapies).
• Driving quality improvement initiatives and patient-centred care across ophthalmology pathways.
• Providing expert clinical input and leadership within multidisciplinary teams.

Why Join Us?

At NHS Lothian, we value innovation, teamwork, and professional growth. As part of our pharmacy team, you’ll benefit from:

• The opportunity to lead impactful projects that directly improve patient outcomes and service delivery.
• A collaborative and supportive environment, where your ideas and expertise are valued.
• Access to advanced clinical learning and leadership development opportunities.

About you

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic pharmacist with a passion for delivering exceptional clinical care.

Essential Qualifications and Competencies

• Master of Pharmacy Degree (or equivalent).
• Registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
• Independent Prescribing Qualification.
• Postgraduate Clinical Pharmacy Diploma or Masters of Science (MSc) in Clinical Pharmacy or evidence of progress against the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) Core Advanced Curriculum.
  • Candidates who have not completed a Postgraduate Clinical Pharmacy Diploma or MSc in Clinical Pharmacy must demonstrate substantial progress across the four pillars of the RPS Core Advanced Pharmacist Curriculum through:
    • Engagement with the RPS Core Advanced Curriculum
    • Active participation in a community of practice/peer network
    • Submit a screenshot of portfolio (programme of learning page)
    • Complete the RPS learning needs analysis tool to assess progress with the Core Advanced Curriculum and any gaps that will need addressed as part of PDP plans
  • Candidates who have completed a Postgraduate Clinical Pharmacy Diploma or MSc in Clinical Pharmacy should complete the learning needs analysis (LNA) using the LNA tool in the RPS e-portfolio, identifying any gaps that will need addressed as part of PDP plans.

Experience and Knowledge

• Proven ability to lead and develop clinical services.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Experience working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.

About NHS Lothian

Serving a population of 900,000 across Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian, and West Lothian. As Scotland’s second-largest health system, we are one of four teaching Boards, fostering strong partnerships with universities and research institutions. Our Pharmacy & Medicines Service is committed to delivering clinically led, person-centred care, ensuring the best outcomes for patients.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

For further information on what is included in the role and the skills/experience we’re looking for, please refer to the job description and person specification linked below. However, we understand that there's only so much a job pack can convey. If you’d like to learn more about this exciting role, the team you’ll be joining, or the opportunities available, we encourage you to get in touch with the hiring manager. This is a great chance to have an informal discussion, ask questions, and explore how this role aligns with your career goals. The service will also consider flexible working where it can be accommodated. Please contact Patrick Downie, Site Lead Pharmacist, SJH/PAEP, 📞 07951 770556 | ✉ patrick.downie@nhs.scot

Make your mark on the future of hospital pharmacy — apply today!