The Royal College of Pharmacy appoints Dr Emily Kennedy as Head of Professional Standards, Guidance and Patient Safety
Published: 22 April 2026
The Royal College of Pharmacy is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Emily Kennedy FRCPharm (Consultant) as its new Head of Professional Standards, Guidance and Patient Safety.
Emily is currently Clinical Pharmacist for Climate Emergency and Sustainability at the Scottish Government and Lead Pharmacist for Respiratory and Sustainability at NHS Dumfries and Galloway. Emily is credentialled at consultant level in general practice, and has a strong background in clinical practice, quality prescribing and patient safety, and has led national work to embed sustainability into prescribing strategies. She was appointed a Fellow of RPS in 2024 and has served as a Chair of Advanced Pharmacist Credentialing Committees since 2022.
Reporting to Justine Scanlan, recently announced Director of Pharmacy, Emily will lead the development of the Royal College of Pharmacy’s professional standards and guidance, supporting pharmacists and pharmacy teams to deliver safe, high-quality care, and drive the organisation’s work to improve patient safety across Great Britain.
Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Royal College of Pharmacy as it strengthens its role in setting standards, supporting professional development and improving patient care.
Karen Baxter, Interim Chief Executive of the Royal College of Pharmacy, said:
“I’m delighted to welcome Emily as our new Head of Professional Standards, Guidance and Patient Safety. She brings a wealth of experience across clinical practice and national policy, alongside a strong commitment to patient safety and professional standards. Emily will play a central role in building on the organisation’s valued standards and guidance that support pharmacists and pharmacy teams to deliver safe, effective care for patients.”
Emily Kennedy said:
“This is such an exciting time to be joining the Royal College of Pharmacy. I am proud and honoured to take on this role and I look forward to working with colleagues, members and partners to support the development of professional standards and guidance that reflect modern pharmacy practice and continue to safeguard patients through the safe and effective use of medicines.”
Emily will take up her role on 29 June 2026.
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