Empowering Personal Development in Pharmacy Leadership

Anike Oleski, the owner of MediosApotheke in Berlin, emphasizes the significance of personal development, not only for herself but also for her employees. In a large pharmacy chain, she acknowledges the challenges of managing every aspect of operations single-handedly, recognizing that effective leadership requires delegation and a broader perspective.

Oleski leads a 14-member management team that includes branch and team leaders, as well as heads of personnel, communications, and finance. This collaborative structure allows for shared expertise and encourages decision-making at various levels within the organization. Although she maintains ultimate responsibility, her approach fosters autonomy among her leaders, who are empowered to make decisions regarding their teams, including salary matters.

Describing her leadership style as cooperative and non-hierarchical, Oleski values open communication and encourages team members to bring forth their ideas. She believes in the principle of 'supporting and challenging,' aiming to facilitate growth and development among her staff. However, she insists that the motivation for personal advancement must originate from the employees themselves.

In her pharmacies, Oleski promotes various development opportunities tailored to individual interests and strengths. For instance, one pharmacist with a passion for nutrition has expanded the pharmacy's consulting services to include online nutrition courses, while another with a strong affinity for technology is spearheading the establishment of a new AI strategy alongside social media efforts. Additionally, the organization allows for lateral movement between departments, enabling employees to explore roles that align with their aspirations, whether that be transitioning from customer service to the compounding department or shifting from inventory management to accounting.

Employee satisfaction at MediosApotheke stems from a culture of appreciation and personal development. Oleski herself was drawn to the pharmacy after experiencing a supportive work environment where her contributions were recognized. Despite occasional staff turnover due to factors such as location and personal circumstances, many employees celebrate significant tenure milestones, reflecting a strong commitment to the organization.

Oleski's philosophy is rooted in the belief that recognition and opportunities for personal growth are essential drivers of employee satisfaction, extending beyond the workplace to enhance overall life fulfillment.

Oleski will also be speaking at the upcoming PZ Management Congress, scheduled for April 2-4 in Palma de Mallorca. This event will feature insightful keynotes and presentations centered on pharmacy leadership, along with best practices shared by pharmacy owners. It promises to be an excellent platform for networking and exchanging innovative ideas. In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the congress will present 25 propositions aimed at advancing pharmacy practices.