This episode will focus on the importance of robust cyber security for all organisations, with particular focus on healthcare distribution companies, and how and why things have recently changed. Our expert hosts and panellists, representing the healthcare distribution industry, law enforcement, the NHS and cyber security platforms, will pool their knowledge and experience to provide an overview of the importance of cyber security, real-world of examples where it’s gone wrong , and what you need to do to protect your business.
HDACONNECT WEBINAR
Blackfield Associates has announced a new strategic partnership with the Healthcare Distribution Association UK (HDA UK), unveiling an innovative webinar series, ‘HDAConnect’, designed to bring together professionals from across the pharmaceutical distribution sector.
The HDAConnect series will serve as a unique platform for industry experts to connect with peers, share best practice, and explore the latest trends shaping the pharmaceutical supply chain. Developed collaboratively by Blackfield Associates and HDA UK, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening knowledge exchange and supporting the evolving needs of the industry.
Next Webinar
Episode 1: The Future Of Cyber And Why It Matters To You
What you’ll learn
- The importance of cyber security for your business
The webinar will kick off with a discussion from our experts around why cyber security matters to you and your organisation, and how and why things have changed to such an extent over the last 18 months. We’ll also consider AI chatbots, and how the threat has evolved.
- Potential business impacts
Recent cyber incidents affecting major organisations such as M&S, Co-op and Royal Mail demonstrate the significant impact a cyber-attack can have on a business. Our SMEs will highlight the potential consequences: disruption to critical systems, such as HR and payroll platforms, preventing staff from being paid on time, as well as operational downtime, reputational damage, and a loss of customer confidence.
- How to protect your business
Protecting your organisation from cyber-attacks starts with getting the basics right and ensuring key security measures are in place. Our experts will explain the importance of maintaining strong access controls, keeping systems updated, and following established cybersecurity best practices, as well as discussing why meeting recognised security standards is increasingly important.
Who should attend?
- HDA UK members
- All levels in Commercial, Operations, Q&C and IT teams
- Business leaders
Register now to secure your place.
Details
- Date: Tuesday, 29th September 2026
- Time: 12:30 – 13:00 (GMT)
- Location: Zoom
MEET THE EXPERT PANEL
HOSTS
- NAME: Alex Williams
- JOB TITLE: CEO, HDA UK
- BIO: Alex Williams is Chief Executive Officer of HDA UK, representing the UK medicines distribution sector. He brings extensive leadership experience across healthcare, government and industry, including senior roles at GSK, NHS England and NHS Improvement, with expertise in medicines policy, market access, supply chains and healthcare transformation.
HOSTS
- NAME: John Preston
- JOB TITLE: Director of Regulatory & Development, HDA UK
- BIO: John Preston is Director of Regulatory and Development at HDA UK, where he works with members and stakeholders to advocate for the UK healthcare distribution sector. A qualified pharmacist and GDP Responsible Person, he brings extensive leadership experience in pharmaceutical quality, regulation, supply chain operations and industry policy, gained through senior roles across wholesale distribution and healthcare.
SPEAKERS
- NAME: Simon Walker
- JOB TITLE: Governance, Risk and Compliance, Pheonix UK
- NAME: Liam Donaghy
- JOB TITLE: Senior Manager (Delivery Partner, PwC), NHS England
- NAME: Connor Lattimer
- JOB TITLE: Director, Baringa