Professor Claire Anderson received the award from FIP President Paul Sinclair

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) is proud to celebrate its President, Professor Claire Anderson, who has been awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) during the opening ceremony of the 2025 FIP Congress in Copenhagen.

The Distinguished Service Award is one of FIP’s highest honours, recognising individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the global advancement of pharmacy. Claire was recognised for her exceptional leadership, her influential work in pharmacy education and workforce development, and her lasting impact on the international pharmacy community.

In her acceptance speech, Claire said:

“It is an incredible honour, and I am delighted to accept this Distinguished Service Award. Thank you so much to the dear colleagues who nominated me, it means so much to me.”

Claire reflected on her many years of involvement with FIP, highlighting her work with the Pharmacy Education Taskforce as a career-defining experience:

“Being able to work agilely with colleagues, now lifelong friends, from across the world to play our part in developing pharmacy education and workforce, along with WHO and UNESCO, is something I am very proud of.”

She also spoke with pride about her time as President of FIP’s Academic Section:

“Turning it into the vibrant section it has become today has been another highlight, and I am grateful to the many colleagues who helped make that possible.”

Claire extended her thanks to the University of Nottingham and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society for their support throughout her journey, and reaffirmed her passion for the profession:

“I care deeply about the future of pharmacy, science, and education, and as FIP transforms, I do hope that the great work we began in pharmacy education continues to expand.”

RPS Chief Executive Paul Bennett commented:

“Claire’s award is richly deserved and reflects her lifelong dedication to the profession. Her international leadership and passion for education continue to shape the future of pharmacy both in the UK and globally. We are incredibly proud to see her achievements recognised on this global stage.”

The RPS extends its warmest congratulations to Claire and all recipients of FIP honours this year and looks forward to continuing its work with FIP and global partners to promote excellence in pharmacy worldwide.

Watch the recording of the FIP Congress Opening Ceremony.

Read more RPS news stories.