Mark Lyonette has taken up his new role as chief executive of the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), the organisation has announced.

Previously chief executive of the Association of British Credit Unions (ABCUL) for 12 years, he will now be in charge of 120 staff and support the NPA’s board of management, which serves a membership accounting for around half of all community pharmacies across the UK.

The NPA announced his appointment in February and Mr Lyons officially took up the position on Monday (4 June).

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‘An honour’

 

My Lyonette said: ‘It’s an honour to serve the thousands of independent community pharmacies who rely on the NPA to provide essential services, a strong voice and a vehicle for collective progress.

‘I’m looking forward to working with the board and the executive team to strengthen the NPA and develop this vital service for its members and the patients they serve.’

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‘Exciting time’

 

Commenting on Mr Lyonette’s new position, NPA chairman Nitin Sodha said: ‘This is an exciting time for the NPA team and its members.

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‘Mark’s first task is to develop the capabilities and performance of the NPA in order to help transform the prospects of the pharmacy sector.

‘He already has a wealth of experience leading trade associations and membership bodies and we look forward to seeing how he will rise to the challenge.’