New NPA chief takes up the reins

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

He will lead the NPA’s 120 staff and support its board of management to serve a membership that accounts for about half of all UK community pharmacies.

The former chief executive of the Association of British Credit Unions arrived yesterday (June 4) at the NPA’s St. Albans headquarters in Hertfordshire.

Mr Lyonette said: “It is 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 am 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.”

Mr Lyonette’s arrival comes just weeks after the NPA held its board elections and appointed Nitin Sodha as its new chairman.

Mr Sodha said: “This is an exciting time for the NPA team and its members.”

“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.”