Adam Vardy: leadership which keeps people at the heart of community pharmacy
Adam Vardy's career has been shaped by a deep commitment to community pharmacy and the people it serves. Adam began his career at the very pharmacy that first inspired him to pursue the profession, and later came full circle when he returned as an owner. Now overseeing multiple pharmacies across Central Queensland, he focuses on empowering teams, understanding local health needs and translating industry change into better outcomes for patients and communities.
I studied my Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Queensland supported by a Regional Pharmacy scholarship from The Pharmacy Guild of Australia. After graduating I moved back to my hometown of Emu Park to undertake my internship in the site that had originally inspired me to undertake the degree and would later become my first foray into ownership. I was fortunate to be provided an opportunity to help establish a greenfield site at Bouldercombe which I managed for my first year. After spending 12 months at that site I moved into a 2IC position back in Emu Park, eventually getting the chance to become manager, assisting in our rebranding to Star Discount Chemist and becoming an owner of that site. Most recently I have become a partner in the Rockhampton store where I have been in an oversight capacity until recently.What’s one moment from your years in pharmacy that you’ll never forget?
A young couple had been coming into the pharmacy for over a year with problems and questions about their IVF. When they told me that they were pregnant at 12 weeks it was such an exciting time. Then, 6 months later, they brought in their newborn daughter, less than a week old so I could meet their little treasure whom they had gone through such heartache to make possible. I will forever feel blessed to be a part of their journey and look forward to being there as their daughter grows up.
How has community pharmacy changed over the years?
The pacing is faster and the scope broader. A pharmacist needs a skilled and supportive team to ensure that they can spread their focus over a broad area. People have come to expect the same knowledge and precision but quicker and over a more diverse skillset. To continue delivering consistent, quality, results we must leverage systems and skilled people.
What is the biggest benefit of being part of The Guild community throughout your ownership years?
Being a part of The Guild community has given me a pathway to stay current and grounded, despite my regional operating area. Having access to current knowledge, useful educational content and regular pertinent updates has been invaluable in an industry that can, at times, be a rapidly evolving environment.
What advice would you give to a young pharmacist or a new owner starting out today?
Don't lose focus on people. Your community and your team are your most valuable assets. Cherish them.
Try not to get caught up in the latest and greatest services all the time. Deliver consistent fundamentals, build capacity and expand based on the interests and expertise of your team within the needs of your local community.