The Chief Pharmaceutical Officer's Pharmacy leaders development programme is for experienced pharmacists who aspire to lead large and complex NHS departments, services, teams or systems of care to benefit patients and local communities. It aims to develop knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviours to help experienced pharmacy professionals become outstanding, compassionate and inclusive leaders, and improve the performance of the teams and the people who work with them to deliver improved outcomes for patients and the public.
This programme aims to create a cadre of senior pharmacy professionals ready for challenging senior leadership roles and to develop networks to sustain their professional leadership practice. A key objective is to make a positive contribution to improving the diversity of those in senior pharmacy professional leadership positions in the NHS.
It offers a comprehensive mix of residential workshops, optional online specialist study days, and small group support to build capability, confidence and networks across the wider system.
This programme is developed by CPPE in collaboration with senior leaders. In 2026, two places will be available for pharmacists working in Northern Ireland.
NICPLD held an information webinar on 18th December 2025 at 7pm to explain more about the programme and the application process for pharmacists in NI. A recording of the webinar is available here.
You can also watch a recording of the recent webinar held by CPPE and NHSE here.
The closing date for applications to join cohort 11 will be midday on Monday 12th January 2026. Late applications will not be considered. You will be notified of the outcome by midday on Wednesday 14th January 2026 and asked to respond to your offer by midday on Friday 16th January 2026.