We dive deep into the remarkable journey of Brijesh Thaker, a successful pharmacy owner who transitioned from India to establish himself in the UK healthcare system. With ownership of four independent pharmacies and over 17 years of experience, Brijesh shares invaluable insights for international pharmacists and those aspiring to pharmacy ownership.
Brijesh's story begins with his arrival in the UK in 2007 to pursue a master's in pharmaceutical sciences. While working as a Christmas temp at Superdrug, a mentor recognised his potential and introduced him to the OSPAP (Overseas Pharmacist Assessment Program) pathway. This program, offered by multiple UK universities, provides international pharmacists with the opportunity to convert their qualifications for UK practice. Brijesh details the comprehensive application process through GPhC, including syllabus comparison requirements and English language proficiency tests.
The discussion provides a candid look at the challenges faced by international students, from managing visa requirements to balancing work and study commitments.
The episode then transitions into a detailed exploration of pharmacy ownership, with Brijesh sharing his journey from employee to entrepreneur. He emphasises the importance of thorough market research, understanding pharmacy valuations, and developing comprehensive business plans before making the leap into ownership.
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CONNECT WITH BRIJESH:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brijesh-thaker-874440299/
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