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It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Simon Driver (b. September 1955), who died in France following a short illness.

Simon’s distinguished career in the pharmacy IT sector began in the late 1980s with AAH Pharmaceuticals/Vestric, where he became known for his professionalism, warmth and dedication.

He later contributed his talents to John Richardson Computing and subsequently took on senior roles within the industry including being appointed managing director of NDC Health and then, following its acquisition, Cegedim Rx in January 2006, leading the company with insight and commitment for a decade until October 2016. 

After that, he had also directed Webstar Health, Health Directions, Cegedim Data Services and Infopharm, further shaping healthcare technology through several impactful leadership roles.

Following his retirement in 2020, Simon split his time between his beloved homes in Warrington and the Dordogne, France. He relished the cultivation of that leisurely life – exploring vineyards and fine French wines, cherishing time with friends and family, and embracing the slower pace he so richly deserved.

Simon will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments, but as someone with sharp wit, genuine warmth and kindness, and an unwavering capacity to support those around him. His loss is a profound one – to his wife Caroline and children Victoria and Harry, his wider family, and his many friends and colleagues over the years.

Felim O’Brien, chief executive, Communications International Group, writes:

I first met Simon in the very early years of our careers.

I had recently joined my first pharmacy title and Simon was the recently appointed marketing manager at AAH. By chance, we found ourselves on adjoining stands at Chemex one September in the late 80s. Two days side by side was all it took to spark what became not just a trusted professional relationship, but a lifelong friendship.

When, a few years later, I set out in 1995 to launch Pharmacy Magazine, among others it was Simon, together with his then boss Alan Turner, who gave me the backing and belief to make it happen.

That act of support was the first of many, and I have since lost count of the joint ventures and collaborations we pursued through the different companies Simon led and shaped with such skill.

What never changed was the way Simon conducted himself. He was a consummate professional, deeply passionate about pharmacy, fiercely loyal to his colleagues and friends, and absolutely determined in everything he took on. 

His passing is a huge loss – not only to our industry, but to all of us who were lucky enough to call him a friend.

Above all, Simon was devoted to his family, and it is to his wife Caroline and his son and daughter, Harry and Victoria, that my deepest sympathies go at this most difficult time.