On behalf of the PHUSE Board, the PHUSE Office, and the PHUSE Community, it is with immense sadness that I report the passing of our dearly beloved, trusted, and valued board member, John Hirst, on Friday 1 September.

John at the PHUSE EU Connect Amsterdam, November 2019

Less than 24 hours before his passing, John actively participated in the monthly PHUSE Board of Directors meeting, showcasing his exceptional qualities as a sage, a wise counsel, and a voice of reason.

My first PHUSE encounter with John dates back to 2003 when I conceived the idea of the PHUSE organisation. Back then, it was an entirely different landscape, and over the course of two decades, we've witnessed remarkable transformations. John has stood by my side on the PHUSE Board of Directors since its inception. Throughout our journey together, John played a pivotal role in guiding PHUSE's evolution from a singular European conference into the esteemed global learning organisation that it is today. More recently, John played a crucial position in his role of Finance Director, supporting PHUSE as we navigated the financial implications of the COVID-19 crisis.

The first ever planning session of what was to become PHUSE, September 2004

I firmly believe that this incredible journey would not have been possible without John's unwavering support.

While John may not have been the most outward-facing PHUSE Board Member in the eyes of the broader PHUSE Community, his influence across all aspects of PHUSE is immeasurable when one considers the myriad of areas where he provided his invaluable insights. All of this was delivered with the gentle, unassuming charm of his Bolton accent.

Sascha Ahrweiler, PHUSE Education Director, fondly recalls, "In one of my most memorable years, 2013, I had the pleasure of manning the PHUSE booth alongside John at the CDISC Interchange in Germany. We had ample opportunities to converse after I picked him up at the airport and when we gathered at a local pub in the evening to watch the Champions League semi-final, where Dortmund triumphed over Real Madrid 4-1. It was individuals like John who made me feel like an integral part of the PHUSE family. He helped me understand that dedication and commitment are the keys to something greater."

John held his family in the highest regard. During the weekends preceding most European PHUSE conferences, his wife, Karen, would accompany him, allowing them to enjoy a weekend city break before John immersed himself in the PHUSE conference. Over the years, many of us had the pleasure of getting to know Karen. Apart from his family, Bolton Football Club was John's other great passion, and he admirably endured the ups and downs of being a Bolton supporter.

Chris Price, PHUSE Working Groups Director, shared what John meant to him. "John's kindness, patience, quiet nature, and calm demeanour were qualities I greatly valued. His thoughtful advice and contributions enriched every discussion, making him an indispensable presence in both professional and personal settings. Spending time with John was always a pleasure, and something I eagerly anticipated whenever we had the chance to meet in person. He was welcoming, friendly, and had a knack for finding a welcoming bar to gather in during the evenings of a PHUSE Conference."

Semi-Virtual Board Meeting, March 2020

Over the past two decades, John faced a few health challenges, but he remained closely connected with PHUSE throughout those times. I recall visiting him in the hospital, and despite his temporary fatigue, he was always willing to listen and provide guidance.

I am certain that the entire PHUSE community joins me in extending our deepest sympathies to his wife, Karen, and the other members of John's family.

I've been an avid observer and admirer of John's career, from when I first met him working at Covance, followed by his days at Boehringer Ingelheim, and most recently, his role at GSK. Throughout all these changes, PHUSE has remained a steadfast presence.

John leaves a monumental void within PHUSE. For now, the Board and Committees will come together to support one another, but it is fair to say that John's light will never fade.

Stephen Bamford
PHUSE Founder & Chairman of the Board