A survey exploring the barriers and drivers to leader and leadership development of the pharmacy workforce

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Leadership is an essential but under-researched domain in advanced pharmacy practice. Aim To describe pharmacist leadership training experience and ascertain perceptions of barriers/drivers for leadership development. Methods Online survey at a UK tertiary-care organization. Questions related to leadership competencies, personal qualities, barriers, and drivers, with Likert scale responses options, were analysed using Microsoft Excel®. Results Thirty-nine pharmacists responded. Three quarters reported no formal leadership training. Many identified leadership development as essential for career progression. Main driver was a manager or peer support. Barriers included workload, being undervalued, and lack of strategic opportunities. Conclusion Our findings can inform educators and organizations in developing future strategies.