Douglas Simpson, FRPharmS, consultant editor of Independent Community Pharmacist has been awarded an MBE for services to pharmaceutical journalism in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

The former editor of The Pharmaceutical Journal (PJ), Independent Community Pharmacist and editorial director of PJ Publications said he was delighted to receive the award.

“I had three strokes of luck so far as journalism is concerned,” he says. “The first was editing Dais, which showed me that a career in journalism was something I might enjoy. “The second was being taken on by the PJ soon after I qualified. The third was being invited by Felim O’Brien to work with Communications International Group on the Institute of Pharmacy Management newsletter and then on Independent Community Pharmacist. I hope all young pharmacists entering the profession have as much luck as I have had.”

Simpson qualified from the school of pharmacy at the then Sunderland technical college in 1965, where he edited the weekly student union’s newspaper, Dais. He then worked briefly in community pharmacy before joining The Pharmaceutical Journal as a sub-editor. He went on to become assistant editor in 1973, senior assistant editor in 1981 and editor in 1987. In 1996 he was also appointed editorial director of PJ Publications.

He launched a number of niche publications, all produced within the PJ editorial offices. They include the International Journal of Pharmacy Practice, the Hospital Pharmacist and Tomorrow’s Pharmacist, an annual publication aimed at pharmacy students.

On leaving the Society in 2000, Simpson joined Communications International Group where he edited the quarterly newsletter of the Institute of Pharmacy Management, before becoming editor of the monthly Independent Community Pharmacist in 2004. He stepped down as editor in 2012 but continues to work as consultant editor for the title.

“Doug has been a credit to the sector and has devoted his entire life to the profession,” comments Felim O’Brien, CEO, Communications International Group. “Even after leaving full-time employment, he stood and was elected to council where he served up until its restructure. “We are proud to have had him as a member of our team for the past 17 years. He is a true asset to the company and a shining example of dedication and commitment.”

Another pharmacist was honoured in the Birthday Honours, Dr Nikesh Kotecha, CEO of Morningside Pharmaceuticals. He was awarded an OBE for services to entrepreneurship, innovation in pharmaceutical services and philanthropy.

Niall Dickson, NHS Confederation chief executive, was also awarded a CBE.