Image: F.A. Derek Desrosiers, BSc(Pharm) 1982, President & Principal, Desson Consulting Ltd; Succession & Acquisitions Consultant, Rxownership.ca
Derek Desrosiers is an expert on the economic and professional practice issues related to pharmacy. He is a licensed pharmacist with over 37 years of industry experience. In addition to being a front-line patient-care pharmacist, he was the Director of Pharmacy Practice Support at the BC Pharmacy Association (BCPhA) twice (4 ½ years each time). He was also the CEO of a regional pharmaceutical wholesale company for more than 9 years. In addition, he has served on many committees and boards of both provincial and national pharmacy organizations, including six separate terms as President of the BC Pharmacy Association.
What accomplishments are you most proud of?
- Serving 6 different terms as President of the British Columbia Pharmacy Association
- Winning the CFP Pillar of Pharmacy Award in 2011.
- Winning the BC Pharmacy Association Lifetime Achievement Award in May 2016.
- Achieving the Canada’s Best Managed Companies designation for 7 consecutive years (while CEO at uniPHARM Wholesale Drugs Ltd.)
How do you stay involved in the community you live in?
I attend and participate in community events, especially if they involve redevelopment plans for a neighborhood and like to support local businesses whenever possible.
What UBC moment are you still talking about?
Launch of the new Pharmaceutical Sciences building (2012) and all of the various reunions we have had for the BSc(Pharm) Class of 1982.
Who was the biggest influence in your career?
I have been influenced and mentored by many great people in my career. My first employer, Jon Strom was a very big influence in my career. I learned a lot of business acumen from him. I’ve also been significantly supported and encouraged in my career by my amazing wife, Bertha Johnson.