Community Pharmacy England (CPE) has appointed a new regional representative for the East and North Midlands who brings ‘valuable frontline experience’ to its committee.
Rahul Sharda, an independent pharmacy owner from Stoke-on-Trent, has joined the committee following a mid-term election process and will serve in this role until 31 March 2027, CPE said.
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The East and North Midlands region covers local pharmaceutical committees (LPCs) in:
- Derbyshire;
- Leicestershire and Rutland;
- Lincolnshire;
- Nottinghamshire;
- Shropshire; and
- Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
In his role Mr Sharda will play a key part in ensuring that the perspectives and priorities of pharmacy owners across these areas are reflected in national discussions and decision-making, CPE said.
CPE’s director of member and LPC support James Wood added: ‘We are delighted to welcome Rahul to the committee as the new regional representative for the East and North Midlands.
‘As an independent pharmacy owner, he brings valuable frontline experience and insight, and I look forward to him playing an important role in representing pharmacy owners across the region.’
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Mr Sharda takes up the committee role after the resignation of Lindsey Fairbrother, who served as a CPE member for three years.
CPE has also initiated early engagement activity as part of its preparations for the next round of committee elections, due to take place in autumn 2026.
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It has asked all pharmacy owners in the ‘10+ multiple (non-Company Chemists’ Association)’ category to provide up-to-date ownership information to support a clear and transparent election process.
In November, CPE altered its composition to better reflect the make-up of the sector, with the Independent Pharmacies Association given appointment rights to CPE for the first time, while CCA representatives were reduced by one.
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