Chara Reid Reed
Chara Reid Reed is a seasoned pharmacy professional with over 30 years of experience spanning retail, independent, and multi-specialty pharmacy settings. She began her career as a pharmacy technician and progressed through diverse roles in chain retail, specialty, and infusion pharmacy, ultimately leading operations for Illinois’ largest independently owned physician group. Her expertise in expanding oral oncology programs and managing multi-site pharmacy services laid the foundation for her corporate career at AmerisourceBergen, where she has held leadership roles supporting GPO strategy, specialty pharmacy operations, and national account management across multiple therapeutic areas. In January 2023, Chara was appointed Senior Director of GPO Strategic Initiatives, Immunology, where she leads a team of national account managers and partners with corporate accounts to optimize strategies that enhance patient access and outcomes. A strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in pharmacy, she serves on the Board of Trustees at Midwestern University and contributes to the university’s Diversity Alumni Council. Chara is passionate about mentoring minority pharmacists and students, helping them explore non-traditional career paths and leadership opportunities in healthcare. Beyond her corporate and academic roles, Chara is the Founder and CEO of the Pharmacist Women Networking Association, a thriving community offering monthly educational programs and networking events for female pharmacists and pharmacy students. She is dedicated to empowering women in pharmacy, cultivating authentic connections, and advancing professional development. Chara is also a devoted mother of four, balancing a demanding career with family life while modeling resilience, perseverance, and the belief that one can achieve anything with focus and dedication.
• NXT-GEN Fellowship for Moral Leadership Graduate, AmerisourceBergen, September 2022 Cohort
• Certified Immunizer
• Midwestern University (IL) - PharmD
• Pharmacy Women Networking Association
• Midwestern University
• NCODA
• American College of Healthcare Executives
• Chicago Health Executives Forum
• ASHP
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to the relationships I’ve built throughout my career. Networking has allowed me to learn from others, uncover opportunities, and collaborate with people who inspire and challenge me to grow.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering the industry to be intentional about taking care of themselves, ensuring they have the energy to excel in their work and support others. Cultivating curiosity and strong networking habits is equally important, as is recognizing and reframing your transferable skills to unlock new career opportunities.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field right now is finding a balance between work and family. Navigating this balance requires intentional time management and self-care, but it also offers the chance to create more flexible, supportive work environments that benefit both individuals and teams.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me most in both my work and personal life are authenticity, integrity, and leading with intention. I strive to be genuine in my interactions, make principled decisions, and approach every action with purpose and thoughtfulness.
Locations
West Chicago, IL 60185