Founder steps aside to make way for a new leader at North Port pharmacy

A national pharmacy company has a new leader in place for its southwest Florida pharmacy. 

Jay Mandra was named president of the Guardian Pharmacy of Southwest Florida, which is a partner pharmacy of the national company Guardian Pharmacy Services. The pharmacy company specializes in long-term care, according to a statement.  

The pharmacy’s reach extends in the region from Sarasota to Fort Myers all from the 10,000-square-foot pharmacy in North Port. In his new role, Mandra will oversee daily operations, develop customer relationships and contribute to the company’s overall growth, the release states. 

Prior to joining Guardian Pharmacy, Mandra was the executive vice president and acting chief operating officer at Symbria, a company that offers pharmaceutical, rehabilitation and wellness services. 

The former president and founder of Guardian Pharmacy of Southwest Florida Mike Klein, while stepping down from the position, will remain actively involved in operations, according to the press release. Klein held that position for 25 years. 

The Southwest Florida pharmacy is one of the national company’s 43 locations. 

The story was amplified to reflect Guardian Pharmacy of Southwest Florida as a partner pharmacy of the national company.