The Royal College of Pharmacy has today (21 April) announced the appointment of three new Trustees to the Trustee Board of the College and the election of a final member from the Senate. 

The Board of Trustees holds ultimate responsibility for the Royal College of Pharmacy’s governance, strategy, and legal compliance. It provides strategic oversight, ensures the College meets its legal and charitable duties, and holds the executive team to account for delivery.  

A majority of the Trustee Board will be registered pharmacists, drawn from the Senate, the governance body of the College, which advises the Board of Trustees on professional matters. The President and three National Pharmacy Advisory Council Chairs (who also act as Vice Presidents) will serve as Trustees, together with a further elected member elected by the Senate. 

The Trustees appointed after interview are Jacob Lant, Katie Mantell and John Turner. The newly elected Trustee is Professor Claire Anderson. 

Joe Irvin, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said: 

“These appointments represent a significant step forward for the royal college. Each of our new Trustees brings expertise, integrity and a deep understanding of the responsibilities that come with public trust. 

“The Royal College of Pharmacy is setting out as an ambitious and purposeful organisation committed to placing pharmacy at the forefront of patient care. 

“I am delighted to welcome colleagues who share that vision and who will help guide the College with confidence, independence and purpose.” 

Tase Oputu, President of the Royal College of Pharmacy, said: 

“With its Trustee Board now strengthened, the Royal College of Pharmacy has the leadership and governance in place that will support its ambitions to establish a strong, credible and future‑focused professional leadership body, supporting professionals and driving excellence in practice for the benefit of patients and the public.” 

The Board of Trustees comprises of the following elected and appointed trustees: 

• Chair: Joe Irvin OBE (appointed) 
• Vice Chair:  The Board will select one of the group when they first meet  
• President:  Tase Oputu (elected) 
• Vice President:  Mahendra Patel (elected) 
• Vice President:  Catriona Sinclair (elected) 
• Vice President:  Liz Hallett (elected) 
• Elected:  Claire Anderson (elected) 
• Appointed:  Jacob Lant, Chief Executive of National Voices 
• Appointed: Katie Mantell, Chief Executive RCVS Knowledge 
• Appointed: John Turner, Chartered Accountant  

The Board of Trustees meets four to six times a year. Its first meeting will be held on Thursday 23 April, when the Vice Chair will be selected.

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