2022 Star Women in Grocery winner Livia Chan (Q&A)
Livia Chan
Regional Manager, Pharmacy Operations
Save-On-Foods
What do you like most about your current role?
I look after 22 stores across British Columbia, and my role entails supporting my pharmacies in day-to-day operations, merchandising, clinical practice, and management. As you can imagine, this job is never dull. I like the variety this job offers and the freedom to help develop new programs. I am always doing something different and constantly learning. I like that this job allows me to push my comfort level. I enjoy working with new people, mentoring them and watching them grow.
What are some of your career highlights?
Since I started practicing, the pharmacy profession has constantly evolved. During that time, I have become an injection pharmacist, a certified diabetes educator and a pharmacy manager. I was a pharmacy manager for more than five years when I decided to go back to school for my PharmD degree. I felt that completing the Doctor of Pharmacy degree would allow me to provide better clinical patient care within community pharmacy. Pharmacists are a great resource within the community for patients. Since completing my PharmD, I have stepped into the role of regional manager, pharmacy operations. The position has allowed me to lead initiatives such as the Daily In-Home Prescription Service, which brings medication administration and management to patients in their homes, allowing them to stay in their homes longer instead of going into care homes.
What is your best quality?
I like to think that I am flexible, which allows me to manage with constant change. I try to listen to other people’s input, which allows me to make thoughtful decisions. I also try to find the positive in situations and try to put everything into perspective. I think this is important in dealing with stress on the job, especially during the pandemic.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in your career?
The pandemic was definitely a challenge. I played a key role on Save-On-Foods’ COVID-19 response taskforce, helping to establish numerous protocols, including developing new store operating procedures and keeping the company current on health updates. Although it was a challenging time and we were under immense pressure, having a strong support system at home really helped to decompress. Working as part of a team and being able to lean on one another for support also helped a lot.
What is your leadership style?
My leadership style centres on team building, figuring out people’s strengths, and listening to everyone’s input before making decisions. In my role, I also have responsibility for the continuing education of my pharmacists and pharmacy managers. I try to empower and coach other pharmacists and help them grow.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Cooking and baking helps me relax, and I enjoy walking our dogs. My husband and I are foodies, so we enjoy eating out and trying new wines.
Click here for the full list of 2022 Star Women in Grocery award winners.