Shared responsibility and more time for customers

A year ago, the two pharmaceutical assistants Chantal Keel (21) and Elmedina Rexhepi (22) felt a very tangible effect of the shortage of specialist staff in the medical and pharmaceutical sector: the Amavita pharmacy Gallusmarkt in St. Gallen was left without management quite suddenly. Suitably motivated and with the support of the regional manager, the two women took over the management. Elmedina Rexhepi recalls: “At first, I questioned whether I could live up to this responsibility. But, thanks to my training as a pharmaceutical operations assistant and the internal management courses I completed, I felt well prepared.” Chantal Keel adds: “We were very proud to be able to assume a responsibility of this magnitude at such a young age.” The two co-managers have known each other ever since they completed their apprenticeship together at another Amavita branch and work together in the spirit of trust and harmony.

In April 2022, the duo became a trio: Dr Carina Gächter assumed technical responsibility as pharmacist. She appreciates being able to concentrate primarily on advising customers and providing pharmaceutical services such as taking people's medical history, administering vaccinations and carrying out ear examinations. “I was impressed by the professionalism of the two co-managers,” she says. The three women cultivate a family-like atmosphere in the 16-person team. Reactions, including those of regular customers, were thoroughly positive. Chantal emphasises: “As pharmaceutical assistants, we are proud to send out a positive signal about the attractiveness of our profession with this innovative model of collaboration.”

The development of our employees is very important to us and is part of our social responsibility. That is why we at the Galenica Group support and encourage our employees to develop their skills and realise their full potential – also with the aim of being an attractive employer and attracting and retaining valuable specialists.