George Tambassis to step down as National Pharmacy Guild President after seven years

After seven years as National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, George Tambassis will be stepping down from his role at the end of this term to “encourage others to lead the organisation”.

In a message to Guild members, Tambassis says he will not be contesting the current Branch Committee election in Victoria, ending his National Presidency early next year.

Reflecting on his role, Tambassis says it had been “very demanding, but also rewarding”, sending high praise to the community pharmacy industry.

“Community pharmacy is a dynamic and highly regarded industry doing great work for all Australians, and it has been so good to lead the Guild during a period in which we have broadened the role of our pharmacists and staff in the interests of patients,” Tambassis says.

“Community pharmacy small businesses have been under immense pressure, not just in this extraordinary year, but for all of the seven years I have led the organisation.”

During his time as President, Tambassis signed both the Sixth and Seventh Community Pharmacy Agreements. The Sixth Agreement provided around $18.9 billion in remuneration for community pharmacies, while the Seventh Agreement benefits Australians living in rural and remote areas, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“I wish all candidates in the current Guild elections well, and know that the tradition of community pharmacists giving their time and commitment to the objectives of the Pharmacy Guild is in good hands, and will continue to benefit all Australian patients through advocacy and service,” Tambassis concluded.