TORONTO — The Neighbourhood Pharmacy Association of Canada (Neighbourhood Pharmacies) announced two appointments this month — Sandra Hanna was named vice president of pharmacy affairs, and Aimee Sulliman was promoted to the role of senior vice president of public affairs.

Hanna has over a decade of experience in community pharmacy as both a pharmacist and an owner. In her new role, she will work with Neighbourhood Pharmacies members to develop policy, stake out positions, and prepare advice to government on legislation and regulations.

“Since Sandra began working with us as a consultant in 2017, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, in-depth knowledge of pharmacy business models and a passion to advocate for the advancement of pharmacy,” said chief executive officer Justin Bates.

Sulliman brings to the executive team more than two decades of senior-level experience within the government and corporate health care sectors, including several pharmaceutical companies. Sulliman joined Neighbourhood Pharmacies in October as vice president of public affairs.

“Aimee has brought a sophisticated and professional approach to public affairs and shown success in achieving advocacy objectives,” said Bates.

“Our newly strengthened management team is focused on helping to shape health policy in the provinces and federally, providing new growth opportunities for members and mitigating the negative impact from pricing and reimbursement-related issues,” he added.

Bates said the association will tackle six key emerging issues throughout the year. The six critical areas are: pricing, expanded scope, the regulatory landscape, medicinal cannabis, addressing the opioid crisis and the introduction of more value-based initiatives in the pharmacy sector.