In this episode of CPhT Connect, host Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv, sits down with Nicole Duggins, the Supply Chain Director of Pharmacy Distribution Services at Bon Secours Mercy Health, to explore her 15-year career journey and her deep passion for pharmacy operations.
Nicole shares her unconventional path into healthcare, which began with operations experience in the fast-food industry—a background she notes provided surprisingly applicable skill sets, including the importance of food safety and maintaining cleanliness in invisible areas. We dive into her transition from retail and compounding pharmacy to hospital operations, discussing how she leverages her “restaurant-honed” patience and collaborative skills to lead teams and navigate complex logistics.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The “Invisible Engine”: The critical role of pharmacy supply chain management in ensuring medications move efficiently and patient care systems run smoothly.
• From Restaurant to Pharmacy: How Nicole translated her operational background and hospitality mindset into a successful 15-year career in pharmacy.
• Action-Oriented Career Growth: Practical advice on how to handle dissatisfaction in a role by taking small, proactive steps—like updating your resume—to build momentum toward a better opportunity.
• The Power of Networking: Why knowing the right people and building strong, supportive relationships was instrumental in securing internships and career advancements.
• Pharmacy Stewardship: Nicole’s dedication to developing SOPs, launching central services, and building pipelines that elevate the next generation of pharmacy professionals.

About Our Guest:
Nicole Duggins is the Supply Chain Director of Pharmacy Distribution Services at Bon Secours Mercy Health, bringing 15 years of experience to the pharmacy industry. Beyond her technical expertise in supply chain management and pharmacy operations, she is a passionate mentor dedicated to stewardship and empowering technicians to find their niche and advance in their careers.
Listen now to hear Nicole’s unique perspective on the evolving role of the pharmacy technician and her wisdom on finding your path through the complex world of healthcare.
For links, show notes, and resources from today’s episode, visit CPhTConnect.com.