Alison Jones joins PDA as stakeholder engagement director

The Pharmacists Defence Association (PDA) has appointed Alison Jones as the director of stakeholder engagement.

She will also manage the PDA's policy department until a permanent director of policy is appointed, the PDA said in a press release.

Jones previously served as government affairs manager at McKesson UK, having worked for Lloyds Pharmacy, and the wider Celesio/McKesson group since 2003.

“This new role will enhance the PDA’s work, ensuring the voices and interests of individual pharmacists are heard throughout decision making in the sector, the health system and beyond, across the UK,” the association said.

“I am delighted to be joining the PDA in this exciting new role,” said Jones. “My main objective will be to positively support and promote the interests of employed and locum pharmacists working in all settings across the UK.

"I will be looking at emerging policies and working with colleagues and members to develop stakeholder campaigns which address important issues affecting individual pharmacists and ensuring that opportunities are fully explored.”

Mark Koziol, the PDA chair, added: “I am delighted to welcome Alison into the leadership team in an important new role to our structure. The positive influence that pharmacists can have through the PDA grows as our membership numbers continue to increase and as we do more and more as a Defence Association, an Independent Trade Union and as part of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Networks. I am sure Alison will be an asset to an already strong team.”