After working nearly 20 years in the Pharmaceutical Industry, variously in the practice and management of the chemical analysis, QC/QA, production and distribution of most major categories of medicinal product, and of the bulk production of a number of active substances, John Sharp joined the UK Medicines Inspectorate in 1971. He was promoted to Principle Inspector in 1972.

It is almost perfunctory to state that John Sharp had an exceptional and high-profile career that was of great distinction, was rewarded and defined by success, and was of major significance to the industry that he worked for and served. The facts, however, speak for themselves and they convey the story of a lifetime’s work that was punctuated by many notable and important achievements, and that was driven by almost immeasurable passion, commitment and enthusiasm.

In addition to his inspection duties, he compiled and edited the 1977 and 1983 editions of the UK Guide to Good Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Practice (‘The Orange Guide’), the latter later forming the basis for EC/EU GMP Guidelines.

He is the author of over 80 published papers, books, booklets and manuals on many aspects of pharmaceutical technology, QA/QP, etc. (including three entire modules in the Manchester University Advance Pharmaceutical Training series, and four modules for ABPI NVQ Operator Training series). He has presented papers to technical, professional and academic seminars/symposia in Britain, Europe, Canada, USA and Rest of the World.

John Sharp was an honours science graduate of London University, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, an honorary member of Royal Pharmaceutical Society, a member of Society of Biology, an Honorary Life Member of the PHSS. In 1996 John received the US PDA’s Korczynski Award for international contributions to pharmaceutical sciences.