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18 NEWS CAMPAIGN CATCH-UP SIGMA LAUNCHES LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Available to all Amcal and Guardian Pharmacies, the newly launched Sigma Academy is designed to deliver an interactive learning experience for all levels of pharmacy. The new learning and development program includes a range of tailored training programs to equip pharmacy teams of the future, including bespoke pharmacy management masterclasses, health service modules and an upcoming intern training program. According to the Head of Amcal and Guardian, Kurt O’Brien, the innovative courses are designed to support and provide meaningful professional development opportunities while enabling self-paced learning delivered through flexible and interactive methods. “As businesses at the frontline of community healthcare, we know the development of our people across the entire ecosystem of pharmacy, including pharmacy leaders, pharmacy assistants and retail assistants, are essential to a strong pharmacy future,” he said. “The Sigma Academy has been developed with people, processes and technology at its core, building a learning and performance-based culture to improve business outcomes.” “The training academy also allows individuals across our network to upskill in other critical business areas such as leadership, sales, profitability and customer service.” Mr O’Brien says the announcement has already attracted strong interest from within the network, and he looks forward to seeing the programs come to life. “In partnership with our pharmacies, we’re excited to build strong pharmacy teams of the future, strengthening our commitment to industry leading, accessible healthcare service for all Australians,” he said. In related news, Mr O’Brien joined thousands of other CEOs and senior business leaders nationwide in this year’s virtual Vinnies CEO Sleepout last month. Helping to raise crucial funds and awareness for homelessness, Mr O’Brien spent the night in his car to help represent one of the common ways homelessness is experienced by many Australians each and every day. “Homelessness doesn’t discriminate, and whether it’s in the car or on the streets, just finding a place to rest your head is sometimes the challenging reality that many face,” he said. “That’s why this year I was proud to be personally involved again, helping to play my small role in raising awareness for homelessness and those doing it tough in our communities, and doing our bit to ensure every Australian has a safe place to call home each night. “At Guardian, we have a longstanding partnership with Vinnies, and we’ve been working together to support those most at risk and vulnerable within our community, so we jumped at the chance to get involved and help shed light on this important initiative for another year.” THERMOSKIN CUSTOMERS CAN BAG A GIFT UPI, maker of the Thermoskin range, is offering the first 800 approved customers buying $39.95 or more of its supports and braces product selection the chance to claim a Thermoskin overnight bag. Described as being perfectly sized to hold all travel essentials, the unisex Thermoskin Premium Laptop Backpack is valued at $69.95, comes in a modern design and offers a spacious interior compartment to keep belongings safe and organised. Additional premium features include large, high quality zips and metal pulls for easy access when on the move, durable lightweight material and an optional adjustable shoulder strap for added convenience. How to claim The first 800 approved online redemption entries via the Thermoskin website will receive a free premium Thermoskin overnight bag. Product purchase terms and conditions apply. Promotion ends COB, October 31, 2020. Not valid for online purchases. FREEMAN RE-ELECTED PRESIDENT AS PSA NAMES LEADERS The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) National Board has re-elected Associate Professor Chris Freeman as National President. The PSA National Board also reappointed Board Director and Victorian Branch member Michelle Lynch and appointed PSA Board Director and ACT Branch President Renae Beardmore as Vice Presidents. Associate Professor Freeman, first appointed President in December 2018, said it was an honour to be re-elected as National President and to be leading an experienced executive committee as PSA works to advocate on behalf of all Australian pharmacists. “I’ve been so proud of the way pharmacists have adapted, innovated and cared for their patients and communities during the recent bushfires and COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s a privilege to be able to continue in this role,” he said. “Our advocacy and policy work will continue as we focus on extending support for the recommendations in our ‘Pharmacists in 2023’ action plan and medicine safety reports.” Associate Professor Freeman also paid tribute to the Vice Presidents, Victorian pharmacist Ms Lynch and Canberra pharmacist Ms Beardmore. “I congratulate both Michelle and Renae on their appointments and I’m thrilled to be working with two very talented pharmacists and health professionals,” he said. “Michelle joined the PSA Board in 2014 and has extensive experience as a community and private hospital pharmacist and health care consultancy, specialising in medication management and pharmacy services, as well as being a previous president of the Victorian branch. “Renae brings over 30 years of experience working in health from public health policy through to patient care as a community pharmacist. “As President of the ACT Branch, Renae will be a big asset and bring plenty to the role as National Vice President and I’m delighted to see her elected in this position.” RETAIL PHARMACY • JUL 2020