National Pharmacies appoints first female CEO

National Pharmacies has appointed experienced finance and retail executive Brigid Hughes as Chief Executive Officer, following a national search process. 

Ms Hughes is the first woman to lead National Pharmacies in its 115-year history. She has been Acting CEO since July and has worked closely with the Board and leadership team to progress National Pharmacies’ new strategy since joining as CFO in August 2025. Ms Hughes replaces former CEO Mark Smith, who returned to Sydney due to family reasons. 

National Pharmacies Chairman Pauline Carr said Ms Hughes’ appointment reflected her proven leadership, financial and commercial expertise, deep understanding of National Pharmacies and strong alignment with its strategic direction. 

“Ms Hughes has demonstrated the leadership capability and strategic perspective needed to build on our 115year history, while positioning National Pharmacies for sustainable growth as community pharmacy expands its role in supporting a health system under increasing pressure,” Ms Carr said. 

Born and raised in Adelaide, Ms Hughes said she was proud to lead a South Australian organisation with a 115 year history during a key period in the evolution of community pharmacy. 

“Community pharmacy is entering a new phase, with an opportunity to play an even greater role in keeping people healthy, supporting them when they are unwell and making healthcare more accessible, convenient and value-led,” Ms Hughes said. 

“National Pharmacies has an important role to play in the future of community pharmacy. Our focus is on expanding services and delivering more value to our members while continuing to invest in our people and communities. 

“What sets us apart is that we are a member-led organisation. It is a powerful model for sustainable growth and one I’m proud to lead into its next chapter.” 

Ms Hughes brings more than 20 years’ experience in finance and senior leadership across multinational, ASX listed and privately owned consumer-facing organisations, with experience spanning retail, fast-moving consumer goods and large-scale service businesses. 

Prior to joining National Pharmacies she was Head of Financial Planning and Analysis for Viva Energy Australia (owners of the OTR Group and Reddy Express) in Adelaide. She spent two decades working in the UK, including as CFO for a private equity backed national restaurant group. 

National Pharmacies’ Senior Manager of Finance, Andrew Burgess, has been appointed Chief Financial Officer.  He brings more than 17 years’ experience as a finance leader across industry sectors including engineering and construction, health, accounting and auditing.