New RPS director for England appointed

James Davies will be the Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s (RPS’s) new director for England, the Society has announced.

A pharmacist by training, Davies worked in the community and hospital sectors before completing a PhD at University College London, which explored business and professional models of community pharmacy practice. Later, he worked at the Company Chemists’ Association and, in 2014, Davies joined digital startup ZAVA — an online doctor and pharmacy service — as head of operations and pharmacy superintendent, going on to become the company’s chief operating officer.

“I have been a member of the RPS throughout my pharmacy career, and that has helped me to continually drive excellence in pharmacy practice,” Davies said after being appointed to his new role.

“I’m excited about delivering the current RPS strategy to ensure that pharmacy is, and continues to be, at the forefront of healthcare. I’m eager to work as part of the team and with the Board, leading and developing opportunities for the profession that improves the lives of patients and the public.

“I’ve always been passionate about the pharmacy profession, from my student days as the [British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association] president, through to my academic work that’s driven forward pharmacy practice and more recently delivering innovative digital solutions in healthcare.”

Thorrun Govind, chair of the RPS English Pharmacy Board, said Davies “brings a unique blend of policy experience, academic rigour and commercial acumen to the role”.

“As a previous academic and policy advisor, he speaks with authority about how pharmacists improve patient care, backed up by science,” she added.

Paul Bennett, chief executive of the RPS, said: “James brings with him significant experience across many sectors of the profession, including community, hospital and academic posts. James will help us to further build our capacity and capability to deliver our mission.”

Davies will take up his post in January 2023.