By Gareth Holyfield FRPharmS, RPS Pharmacy Professional Engagement Lead for Wales and West of England
Pharmacy has been incredibly rewarding for me. From my early years training with Boots to my current role with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, I am now celebrating my 40th year as a registered pharmacist. I’ve had a varied and interesting portfolio career, advocating for and representing the pharmacy profession alongside its Professional Body (formerly RPSGB, now RPS).
Early career and professional development
After gaining experience in both hospital and community pharmacy as a student, I spent my early years with Boots, alongside some time at an independent pharmacy. This gave me a good grounding and experience in patient communication, clinical conversations with GPs, and the importance of a strong pharmacy team. Completing a Diploma at Keele University boosted my confidence in working within a multi-disciplinary team and opened doors for more strategic roles. I then became Head of Pharmacy and Medicines Management at Monmouthshire Local Health Board (LHB), during a time when many healthcare organisations were taking on pharmacists working in both primary (community) and secondary care (hospital). This role highlighted the value of pharmacists as experts in medicines and deepened my appreciation for other healthcare professions.
My move into Public Health
After six years at the LHB, I became Principal Pharmacist at the National Public Health Service for Wales (NPHS). During this time, I studied part time for a master’s in public health, which further integrated my healthcare expertise into more public health domains. When the organisation transitioned to Public Health Wales, I subsequently took up the Specialist Pharmacist role within the Vaccine and Preventable Disease Programme, playing a key part during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was during my time in public health that I became an Honorary Lecturer at the School of Pharmacy in Cardiff. Reflecting on my career, each role built on the last, and gave me the confidence to bring a pharmacy perspective to various healthcare settings.
Engagement with the Professional Body
My journey with the RPS began early in my career, attending local RPSGB branch meetings with my tutor, and later holding the roles of treasurer and then chair. Being elected to the RPS Wales Board allowed me to contribute my own ideas and thoughts towards the future of the profession, and I was honoured to be designated a Fellow of the RPS in 2014. I also spent a few years on the RPS Membership Committee, which was very insightful. The RPS has been vital in supporting my much-varied career transitions, and I’ve always valued the opportunity to give back to the profession that has been really good to me.
My new role as RPS Engagement Lead
After retiring from the NHS in 2023, I enjoyed travelling, spending time with family and revisiting chess after 30+ years. However, I also felt drawn to give back, which led me to join the RPS as Pharmacy Professional Engagement Lead for Wales and West of England. This role has allowed me so far to share my experience with Foundation Trainee Pharmacists and first year students, offering guidance as they begin their pharmacy journeys.
I would encourage other pharmacists to engage with the profession through events and committees, as every opportunity helps make a difference. I look forward to supporting the next generation of pharmacists.
Read more about what the RPS Engagement team do.
Read more RPS blogs.