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Udg Healthcare PLC

udg · LSE Communication Services
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Industry Medical - Distribution
Employees 5001-10,000
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FY2018 Annual Report · Udg Healthcare PLC
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UDG Healthcare plc

Improving 
Transforming  
Growing

Annual Report and Accounts 2018

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Always improving  
productivity, 
transforming our 
business through  
our people and 
growing our market 
leading positions

Key highlights

Group operating profit* 

$147.5m

Profit before tax

$138.8m

Read about our full Highlights of the Year overleaf 

Highlights of the Year

Group operating profit* 

+14%

Ashfield operating profit*

+21%

$147.5m

Ashfield 

Sharp

Aquilant 

6
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1
8

6
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0
7

2
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8
3

3
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1
4

9
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6

4
.
6

3
.
8
6

0
.
4
3

3
.
8

5
.
7
5

9
.
5
2

0
.
8

4
.
8
9

8
.
5
4

3
.
3

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Forward-looking information
Some statements in this Annual Report are or may be forward-looking statements. They  
represent expectations for the Group’s business, including statements that relate to the  
Group’s future prospects, developments and strategies, and involve risks and uncertainties  
both general and specific. 

The Group has based these forward-looking statements on assumptions regarding present  
and future strategies of the Group and the environment in which it will operate in the future. 

However, because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors  
including but not limited to general economic, political, financial and business factors, which  
in some cases are beyond the Group’s control, actual results, performance, operations or 
achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements may differ materially  
from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, and accordingly you  
should not rely on these forward looking statements in making investment decisions. 

Except as required by applicable law or regulation, neither the Group nor any other party  
intends to update or revise these forward-looking statements after the date these statements  
are published, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

$98.4m

Sharp operating profit*

+11%

$45.8m

Aquilant operating profit*

-49%

$3.3m

Proposed dividend

16.00c

Profit before tax* 

$138.8m

+20%

+17%

Diluted earnings/share* (EPS)

+24%

45.94c

Net operating margin*

+49bps

13.1%

Read Our KPIs on page 22 

*  All references to ‘operating profit’ and ‘earnings 
per share’ included in the Strategic Report are 
stated excluding the amortisation of acquired 
intangible assets, transaction costs and exceptional 
items, and relate to the Group’s continuing 
operations. The Group reports certain financial 
measures that are not required under International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) which 
represent the generally accepted accounting 
principles (GAAP) under which the Group reports.

What We Do

UDG Healthcare is a global leader in healthcare advisory, 
communications, commercial, clinical and packaging services. 
The Group is organised and managed across two divisions:
Ashfield and Sharp, and employs 8,700 people in 26 countries.

Ashfield

Sharp

A global leader in healthcare advisory, 
communications, commercial and 
clinical services

A global leader in contract clinical, 
manufacturing, packaging and 
technology services

Services:
Advisory
Healthcare advisory, strategic consulting, analytics and 
benchmarking audit services.

Communications
Scientific and creative communications, digital and patient-
centred content, specialised agencies in behavioural science, 
rare disease, PR and on-demand advertising services.

Commercial & Clinical
Commercialisation and clinical services including sales 
representatives, patient services, contact centres, medical 
affairs and meetings and events.

Services:
Clinical 
A comprehensive and integrated clinical trial supply  
and management service, from pre-clinical through  
to commercialisation.

Manufacturing
Clinical manufacturing services including analytical services, 
formulation development, over-encapsulation and 
placebo manufacture.

Packaging 
Commercial packaging solutions in multiple formats 
including bottles, blisters, specialty and secondary packaging 
of injectables.

Technology
Technology to support both commercial and clinical 
packaging services including design, serialisation solutions 
and clinical IRT.

% of Group operating profit*

% of Group operating profit*

67%

Net operating margin 

13.4%

Employees

7,091

31%

Net operating margin 

14.7%

Employees

1,569

Read more on page 36 

Read more on page 42 

*Excluding Aquilant.

 
Our Mission

To improve the lives of patients around the world by partnering with 
pharmaceutical clients and healthcare providers.

Our Strategy

Improve  
productivity

Transform 
through people

Our experience, capabilities and 
global scale drive increased 
productivity and efficiency across 
our businesses and facilities. Our 
focus on operational and 
commercial excellence, measured 
by our KPIs, are key to our success. 

Our people are critical to our 
success. We deliver our strategy 
through talented, experienced and 
motivated people, supported by 
continuing developmental 
programmes, effective processes 
and technology investments.

Grow and develop 
market-leading 
positions

As a global leader in the healthcare 
industry, we focus on expanding 
our positions in our core markets 
through a combination of organic 
growth and strategic acquisitions. 
We have a strong track record of 
acquisitions, which have 
strengthened our market 
positions and generated 
solid returns. 

Net operating margin 

13.1%

Response rate to the 
global engagement survey

78%

Earnings per share

45.94c

Return on capital employed

Sustainable engagement score

North American revenues

12.7%

80%

54%

Read more on page 14 

Read more on page 15 

Read more on page 15 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

1

 
UDG at a Glance

Considerable progress has  
been made on succession  
and succession-planning  
during the year.

Nominations & Governance Committee Report on page 70 

A year of strategic progress.

Chairman's Statement on page 4  

Ashfield continues its transformation  
from a tactical provider of field-based  
sales representatives to delivering  
a full suite of end-to-end advisory  
communication, commercial and  
clinical services.

Read more on page 8 

2

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Acquisitions 
Two acquisitions  
completed during  
the year:
Create NYC
Smart Analyst.

Focus on Acquisitions on page 18 

We successfully  
continue to improve,  
transform and grow  
our broad suite of  
client services.

Chief Executive's Review  
on page 6 

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Acquisitions 

Two acquisitions  

completed during  

the year:

Create NYC

Smart Analyst.

Focus on Acquisitions on page 18 

Twelve months,  
29 meetings, two  
new acquisitions  
and investment  
in new facilities.

What the Board did  
on page 68 

Strategic Report

UDG at a Glance 

Chairman’s Statement 

Chief Executive’s Review 

Market Opportunity 

Our Business Model 

Our Strategy 

Delivering on Our Strategy 

Key Performance Indicators 

Risk Management 

Principal Risks and Uncertainties 

Finance Review 

Operational Review 

Sustainability 

Directors’ Report

Board of Directors 

Chairman’s Introduction to  
Corporate Governance 

Corporate Governance 

Nominations & Governance Committee Report 

Audit Committee Report 

2

4

6

10

12

14

16

22

25

27

32

36

48

60

62

63

70

73

Our values 
Intrinsically  
linked to our 
Business Model.

Our Business Model on page 12 

Risk, Investment & Financing Committee Report  77

During 2018, the  
Sharp division undertook 
three large-scale 
redevelopment projects  
in the US, UK  
and Netherlands.

Read more on page 55 

Quality

Partnership

Ingenuity

Expertise

Energy

Our Values on page 12 

Directors’ Remuneration Report 

Report of the Directors 

Financial Statements

Independent Auditor’s Report 

Group Income Statement  

Group Statement of Comprehensive Income 

Group Statement of Changes in Equity 

Group Balance Sheet 

Group Cash Flow Statement 

Notes forming part of the Group  
Financial Statements 

79

92

96

102

103

104

105

106

107

Company Statement of Comprehensive Income 

157

Company Statement of Changes in Equity 

Company Balance Sheet 

Company Cash Flow Statement 

Notes forming part of the Company  
Financial Statements 

Financial Calendar 

Additional Information 

Glossary 

158

159

160

161

167

168

172

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

3

Chairman’s Statement
Peter Gray

A year of further 
strategic progress 
with strong 
growth

Peter Gray
Chairman

4

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Dear Shareholder,

Overview
2018 has been a year of good strategic 
progress as we consolidated the six 
acquisitions made in 2017 and added two 
more. This progress was reflected in our 
financial performance, with constant currency 
EPS growth of 22% benefiting from the 
impact of these acquisitions, US tax reform 
and continued underlying growth. Some 
variability within this underlying growth, 
which we signalled in our third quarter trading 
update, coupled with market turbulence, has 
led to share price volatility in recent months. 
Nonetheless our total shareholder return over 
the last three years remains in the top quartile 
of the FTSE 250 and we believe our strategy 
will continue to deliver good returns to 
shareholders over the long term. 

In achieving our strong EPS performance,  
we generated 10% net revenue growth and 
14% operating profit growth. In constant 
currency, Ashfield reported 5% underlying 
operating profit growth (excluding 
investments in new platform technologies 
– which we refer to as “Future Fit”), while 
Sharp reported very strong underlying 
operating profit growth of 11%, with an 
outstanding second half more than 
compensating for a slow first half.

Within Ashfield, the Communications  
& Advisory business generated strong 
underlying growth and now accounts for 
nearly two thirds of Ashfield’s profits. 
However, there were headwinds in the  
Clinical and Commercial market segment,  
as evidenced by the setbacks also suffered  
by our competitors in 2018. However, market 
research and our own experience and 
customer interactions continue to point  
to long term opportunity for integrated 

Key Governance Activities 
in 2018

Appointment of a new CFO, Nigel 
Clerkin, and a new non-executive 
director, Erik van Snippenberg. 

29 Board and Committee meetings 
were held during the year. 

Following the external review of the 
Remuneration Committee in 2017,  
the Company engaged an independent 
external consultant, Independent 
Audit, to review the Risk, Investment  
& Financing Committee in August 
2018. An internal board evaluation  
was also conducted. 

Read What the Board did on page 68 

marketing support services, including 
contract sales teams and nurse advisors, 
particularly as new medications become  
more specialised and complex to promote  
and administer. 

Our Return on Capital Employed (ROCE)  
(see page 170 for the basis of calculation) was 
12.7% compared to 12.8% last year. Influenced 
by the rapid pace of new acquisitions made  
in the last 18 months, and our significant 
ongoing investments in facilities in Sharp and 
in software for the Group and for Ashfield,  
we remain focused on enhancing this metric 
over time. 

Based on the strong earnings growth 
achieved, the Board is pleased to recommend 
a 20% increase in dividend for the full year 
thus confidently continuing our 30-year 
upward dividend growth trajectory.

Strategy
During the year, the final step in our strategic 
shift from a distributor for the pharma and 
medical device industry to a services provider 
in that industry was achieved when we sold 
our remaining distribution business, Aquilant, 
to a private equity buyer. The potential sale  
of Aquilant had been disrupted by Brexit 
uncertainty in the UK, which caused the 
withdrawal of a serious buyer, and which 
contributed, we believe, to the subsequent loss 
of some agencies, all of which compromised  
its value. Nonetheless, we have converted a 
no-longer-core asset into cash, ensured our 
management are now focused on our core 
growth businesses, and placed Aquilant with 
new owners intent on its development. 

In addition to the two further acquisitions 
made during the year, the new facilities for  
our Sharp Clinical business in Pennsylvania 
and in Wales, and that for Sharp’s Commercial 
business in the Netherlands are nearing 
completion, while further progress was made 
on the rollout of our new financial platform 
for the Ashfield division. This activity will 
continue in 2019 and should underpin 
future growth.

As is appropriate in a group evolving as we 
are, adding and sometimes subtracting 
entities each year, we have undertaken a 
significant restructuring in 2018 to ensure 
efficiency, effectiveness and closer alignment 
of the businesses as we drive synergies 
between them. 

Board and Governance
We discuss the activities of the Board in  
2018 and some detail regarding governance  
in the Corporate Governance Report on  
pages 62 to 69. 

During the year we bade farewell to Alan 
Ralph who played a major part in the Group 
for over 20 years, latterly as CFO. He was 
hugely respected by his Board colleagues and 
by shareholders and we wish him well as he 

embarks on a new chapter in his life. We are 
also bidding farewell to Philip Toomey, who 
has been on the Board for 10 years and who 
will not go forward for re-election at our 
Annual General Meeting (AGM). Philip, who 
served as chair of the Audit Committee and as 
Senior Independent Director for many years, 
will be a much-missed sage voice. We 
welcome Nigel Clerkin, who has taken over 
from Alan, and Erik van Snippenberg, who 
joined us in July. Their bios are available on 
page 60. We are also currently seeking some 
further appointees to prepare for the 
retirement of Chris Brinsmead in 2020 and to 
add candidates who could succeed me. As I 
have been on the Board since 2004, and have 
been Chairman since 2012, good governance 
demands that we begin to plan for my 
retirement. See the Introduction to Corporate 
Governance on page 62.

I mentioned last year that we were carrying 
out an employee survey in late 2017. The 
results of this were encouraging in terms of 
the Group’s culture. Strong positive responses 
were received in terms of the values the 
Group espouses and our employees buy-in to 
these values. The Board continues to reinforce 
culture through its own open and transparent 
dialogue with management at all levels, in 
different forums, and in the expectations it 
sets. As always with such surveys, there were 
areas highlighted for improvement including, 
for example, the clarity of our communication 
to employees about our strategy. The pace at 
which we have transformed the Group 
demands continuous communication to 
ensure our people understand the steps we 
are taking and the opportunities this creates 
for them. 

Outlook
As a Board, we devoted considerable time 
throughout 2018 reviewing our strategy with 
the management team in light of market 
dynamics, and as new acquisition and capital 
expenditure opportunities were presented. 
Now focused on Ashfield and Sharp, we 
continue to see strong underlying growth 
potential in both and we remain confident the 
strategy will deliver in both the near and 
long terms.

We have very low debt levels and have a good 
flow of potential acquisition opportunities for 
both divisions which would add scale and 
further broaden their range of services.  
While asset prices continue to be challenging, 
particularly in Sharp’s field, we are confident 
there are ample opportunities to further 
enhance shareholder value through 
strategically aligned acquisitions which 
integrate well with our current businesses.

In closing, I’d like to take this opportunity  
on behalf of shareholders and the Board to 
thank our executive team and all our 8,700 
employees worldwide for their hard work  
and dedication in 2018 and offer them our 
encouragement and support for 2019.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

5

Chief Executive’s Review
Brendan McAtamney

Delivering  
through a 
coherent, 
consistent 
strategy

6

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  “2018 reflected the 
continued execution of  
our strategy and another 
year of strong growth for  
the Group. Our two global 
platforms, Ashfield and 
Sharp, continued to drive 
earnings as we leveraged 
our leading market positions 
and sector expertise.”

Strategic Highlights

1. Completed the acquisitions of Create 
NYC and SmartAnalyst in July 2018 for 
a combined consideration of up to 
$82.4 million. 

2. Completed the disposal of Aquilant 
in August 2018, concluding the Group’s 
exit from its supply chain businesses.

3. Ashfield’s offering continues to shift 
towards more strategic, higher value 
services with Ashfield Communications 
& Advisory now accounting for 63% of 
Ashfield’s operating profit, up from 
approximately 20% five years ago. 

4. Three Sharp facilities upgraded in 
the year, providing a strengthened 
platform for growth.

5. Restructuring of internal operating 
structures completed, with a view to 
achieving greater flexibility, 
accountability and performance across 
the Group. An after-tax restructuring 
charge of $14.4 million has been 
incurred as a consequence in 2018, 
with the benefits being reinvested into 
technology, infrastructure and a STEM 
aXcellerate growth programme. 

Read Our Strategy on page 14 

Dear Shareholder, 
I am pleased to report that in 2018 we made 
continued progress in the delivery of our 
strategic priorities and this was a contributing 
factor to the good financial results and solid 
growth achieved during the year. As a Group 
we continue to improve, transform and  
grow our broad suite of client services,  
and deliver sustainable long-term returns  
for our shareholders. 

Performance 
We delivered net revenue growth of 10%  
and operating profit growth of 14%, which 
contributed to adjusted diluted (EPS) growth 
of 24%, or 22% on a constant currency basis. 
This exceeded the top end of our 2018 
guidance range of between 18% and 21%. 

Ashfield Communications & Advisory, 
including the contribution from acquisitions, 
was the main driver of growth delivering 44% 
operating profit growth. Sharp delivered a 
particularly strong underlying performance, 
especially in the US to deliver operating profit 
growth of 11%. Offsetting this, the 
performance of Ashfield Commercial & 
Clinical was more challenging during the 
second half of the year and the ramp up of 
activity with some clients in Sharp Europe  
was slower than anticipated. 

We continued to make good progress from  
a corporate development perspective 
completing the acquisitions of Create NYC,  
an innovative, disruptive communications 
agency, and SmartAnalyst, a strategic 
commercialisation consulting and analytics 
business, in July 2018. Both acquisitions meet 
our acquisition criteria – strong strategic and 
cultural fit; delivery of our target financial 
hurdle rates; and the expansion of our 
current capabilities. 

Global Market Trends 
As growth in the global healthcare market 
continues to accelerate, the main tenet of our 
strategy continues to focus on capitalising on 
the increasing trend among pharmaceutical, 
biotech and medtech companies to outsource 
specialist and non-core activities. We are 
increasingly well-positioned to do this with an 
expanding and agile portfolio of businesses 
that are closely aligned to our client’s needs. 
This strategy is supported by a sustained 
increase in FDA product approvals, the 
continued shift towards the launch of more 
complex specialty medicines and the 
significant growth from rare and 
orphan drugs. 

Our latest acquisitions mean that 53% of  
our revenue is now generated in the US.  
This brings UDG Healthcare increased 
opportunity to execute our strategy of 
capturing market-leading positions in the 
world’s largest pharmaceutical market.

Delivering our Strategy 
In August 2018, we completed the disposal  
of Aquilant to H2 Equity Partners. Aquilant 
represented approximately 4% of the Group’s 
operating profits at the time of disposal. The 
disposal of Aquilant is the final step in our 
journey to exit the supply chain service 
businesses, following the disposal of our 
United Drug Supply chain and MASTA 
businesses in 2016. The proceeds from the 
transaction will be used to fund the continued 
development of our two global growth 
platforms – Ashfield and Sharp. I would like  
to acknowledge the Aquilant employees and 
thank them for their commitment. Aquilant  
is a great fit for H2 Partners and I wish the 
business and employees well for the future. 

We remain ambitious to continue the strong 
growth and development of the Group 
following the considerable expansion in recent 
years, both organically and inorganically.  
As a result, the Group has implemented a 
restructuring of its internal operating 
structures, with a view to achieving greater 
flexibility, accountability and performance 
across the Group. Furthermore, it will enable 
us to capitalise and take further advantage of 
growing market opportunities in an evolving 
and highly dynamic healthcare industry. 

Aligned with this programme, we have 
evaluated the strategic growth opportunities 
for the STEM Healthcare business model and 
launched an expansion programme, called 
STEM aXcellerate. STEM Healthcare has 
considerable capacity to continue to grow its 
core pharmaceutical base, and in tandem 
expand into other related and unpenetrated 
healthcare sectors which also offer significant 
growth potential. We are confident that STEM 
aXcellerate offers the potential for attractive 
financial returns over the medium and 
longer term. 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

7

Chief Executive’s Review (continued)

Divisional Highlights: 
Ashfield
Ashfield continued its transformation from  
a tactical provider of field-based sales 
representatives, to a business where nearly 
two-thirds of its offering is strategically 
focused and delivers a full suite of end-to- 
end advisory, communication, commercial 
and clinical services to the global 
healthcare industry. 

Ashfield Communications & Advisory 
Communications: During the year, our focus 
has been on growing our capabilities to 
enable us to work with clients across different 
geographies and increasing collaboration 
between our network of agencies. We have 
developed a global network of talent driven  
by a “science first” perspective which is 
supplemented by strong creative and 
digital expertise. 

In July 2018, we acquired Create NYC which 
adds innovative, creative services to Ashfield 
Communications. This is a unique, disruptive 
model which gives its clients high-impact, 
on-demand flexible marketing support with a 
flat fee structure. This approach complements 
the more traditional agency model. The 
acquisition of Create NYC is in line with our 
strategy to expand into areas of differentiated 
but aligned adjacencies to Ashfield’s core 
scientific communication capabilities.

Advisory: The continued development of 
Ashfield’s Advisory pillar remains a key 
element of our strategy. Building on the 
strong progress last year, our two acquisitions 
in 2017, STEM Healthcare and Vynamic, 
continued to perform very strongly in 2018 
delivering good underlying growth. 

Furthermore, the acquisition in July 2018  
of SmartAnalyst further expands Ashfield’s 
Advisory capabilities. SmartAnalyst is a 
US-based strategic consulting and analytics 
business focused on the pharmaceutical and 
biotech sector. This acquisition adds new 
capabilities in strategic consulting and the 
high-growth area of Health Economics and 
Real World Evidence. SmartAnalyst also 

provides Ashfield with access to therapeutic 
franchise development decision-makers, as 
well as infrastructure in India. Ashfield will 
provide leverage and opportunities to grow 
SmartAnalyst’s customer base outside the US 
through Ashfield’s global business footprint. 

Ashfield Commercial & Clinical 
Commercial & Clinical: The business 
experienced a challenging year, but our 
strategy remains unwavering, with service 
development and differentiation being  
a core focus for us in 2018 and beyond. 

During the year, Ashfield Commercial & 
Clinical launched new innovative services such 
as the Ashfield Solution which adds data and 
analytical insights to the core field-based 
representative offering. We also launched 
Virtual Medical Science Liaison’s and 
enhanced our multi-channel contact centre 
capabilities. The Clinical business has 
continued to see an increase in the number of 
Patient Support Programmes being launched 
on behalf of clients and we have rolled out 
Salesforce’s Health Cloud – a customer 
relationship technology platform that enables 
our clinical educators to put patients at the 
centre of care with real time, up-to-date 
comprehensive patient information. 

Overall we remain confident in our Ashfield 
strategy and believe that current market 
dynamics, such as the growth in specialty 
medicines and rise in the demand for more 
sophisticated multi-channel capabilities, will 
help drive growth over the medium term. 

Sharp 
2018 marked the tenth anniversary of our 
acquisition of Sharp packaging US in 
Allentown and Conshohocken, Pennsylvania. 
Since 2008, consistent growth has led to a 
near doubling of available capacity, a doubling 
of the workforce and a greater than seven-fold 
increase in operating profit. Sharp US has 
been an extremely successful acquisition for 
us and continues to make a strong 
contribution to the success of UDG 
Healthcare today.

To further develop the capacity and efficiency 
of the business, we continued Sharp’s capital 
investment programme in 2018. Three of 
Sharp’s eight facilities were refurbished during 
the year providing it with an excellent platform 
for future growth and offering clients an 
integrated clinical development, packaging 
and distribution service. 

Sharp US: While Sharp US had a challenging 
start to 2018, the business performed 
exceptionally well in the second half of the 
year and continues to gain momentum.  
We will continue to closely align Sharp US’s 
expansion with current and emerging market 
opportunities, as well as developing improved 
operational integration with our strategic 
client partners. The business’ strategic 
investments in serialisation technologies have 
also contributed to the positive momentum  
in the business. 

Sharp Europe: The business experienced a 
slower than anticipated on-boarding of new 
clients which impacted its financial results 
during the year. We continue to execute our 
strategy to focus on targeting and developing 
new strategic partnerships with clients in the 
growing biotech market. 

Sharp Clinical: In 2018 Sharp Clinical 
successfully completed phase one of its 
expansion project in the US by relocating  
the global logistics business to the newly 
renovated facility at Bethlehem. This project 
was delivered on-time and on-budget without 
a single missed shipment to patients or 
disruption to our client operations. Phase  
two of the Bethlehem expansion is scheduled 
for completion in early 2019.

The second significant investment in Sharp 
Clinical during 2018 was the construction and 
fit out of our state-of-the-art manufacturing 
and packaging facility in Wales, UK. The site 
was fully operational in November 2018 for 
packaging and logistics services with 
analytical, manufacturing and IRT services  
to follow in 2020. Both investments will allow 
Sharp Clinical to continue with its clinical 
supply chain optimisation strategy by offering 

8

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report end-to-end services, formulation to logistics, 
all within one facility in both the US 
and Europe. 

Overall I am confident that the improved 
pipeline of business and increased capital 
investments leave Sharp well-positioned to 
generate strong underlying operating profit 
growth in the medium term.

Infrastructure 
Underpinning everything we do is our  
breadth and depth of expertise, our successful 
long-term client partnerships and the unique 
infrastructure we own and operate. 
Technology is playing an ever-more important 
role in the delivery of innovative support and 
sustainable solutions to our clients. 

During the year, we continued with our  
Future Fit programme of investment and  
the implementation of Oracle finance and 
Workday HR systems. We also began strategic 
investments in more front-end client-facing 
technology such as the aforementioned 
Health Cloud, and the Avature recruitment 
platform and we are investing in support 
technologies such as the Concur expense 
system and various elements to increase IT 
security. These technologies offer our clients 
faster, cheaper and safer streamlined 
business solutions.

These ongoing investments also future-proof 
the fabric of the organisation and establish  
a solid foundation for the integration of 
newly-acquired businesses and the long-term 
growth of the Group. 

Our People 
We have a diverse, engaged and energetic 
group of employees in UDG Healthcare.  
Their hard work and dedication has helped  
to deliver another year of continued progress  
for the Group and I am very grateful for 
their commitment. 

During the year we launched the CEO Awards 
which celebrated those in the organisation 
who truly live our values in their everyday 
work. I am very proud of this CEO recognition 
programme as it is our people who bring our 
values to life and ensure we continue to 
improve, transform and grow as we enter 

2019. We also ran two very successful 
leadership and management development 
programmes called Inspire and Drive with 
over 1,000 employees participating. 

Like every organisation of our size, there were 
a number of management changes during the 
year and my confidence in the leadership team 
continues to strengthen. As previously 
announced, Nigel Clerkin succeeded Alan 
Ralph as Chief Financial Officer. I would like  
to take the opportunity to sincerely thank Alan 
for his 20 years of dedication and commitment 
to UDG. On behalf of the Group we wish Alan, 
Nikki and their family all the very best for 
the future. 

As mentioned earlier, during the year we 
carried out a review of our Ashfield business 
structure. As a consequence, Rob Wood was 
appointed Head of Ashfield Advisory Services 
& Divisional Business Development. Doug 
Burcin was appointed Head of Ashfield 
Communications and Julian Tompkins was 
appointed Head of Ashfield Commercial 
& Clinical. 

Looking Ahead 
In 2018 we made solid progress in the 
execution of our strategy. We have continued 
to invest in talent, infrastructure and 
additional capabilities that are attractive to 
our global clients as we continue to deliver on 
our impressive growth record. Looking ahead 
to 2019, I believe UDG Healthcare is well 
positioned to exploit the robust market 
opportunity within the sectors we operate in. 
We will continue to drive underlying organic 
growth and supplement it with acquisitions 
that will transform our breadth of services  
and geographic diversity. We will also 
continue to invest in our talent, systems and 
infrastructure, to ensure we have the right 
platform for continued future growth. Thank 
you once again for your support in 2018.

Brendan McAtamney
Chief Executive

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

9

Market Opportunity

Transforming our business  
to capitalise on the growth  
in the global healthcare market

Growth in the global healthcare  
market is expected to accelerate to 
approximately 5-6% per annum with 
the market projected to exceed  
$1.4 trillion by 20221. The US market  
is set to account for 45% of this 
projected spend. Key drivers of this 
growth include: a sustained increase  
in FDA product approvals; a continued 
shift towards the launch of more 
complex specialty medicines; and the 
significant growth of orphan drugs as 
the pharmaceutical industry moves to 
address smaller patient groups with 
significant unmet needs.

In addition, rising healthcare and drug costs 
are driving demand for quality, cost-effective 
and flexible solutions.

Demand for outsourcing is also increasing as 
clients seek specialist expertise, services and 
quality. In particular small and mid-sized 
pharmaceutical and biotech companies  
who lack commercial infrastructures when 
developing specialty medicines seek expert 
outsourcing solutions. 

UDG Healthcare’s broad portfolio of skills and 
services ensures it is uniquely positioned to 
meet the needs of its clients across all stages 
of the product lifecycle. 

While every outlook involves a degree of 
uncertainty, including the growth potential of 
new products and a secondary patent cliff, the 
overall conditions in the global healthcare 
market remain positive for the future. 

1 

2018 and Beyond: Outlook and Turning Points, 
IQVIAInstitute, March 2018.

2  World Preview 2018, Outlook to 2024, Evaluate Pharma, 

June 2018.

3  Medicines Use and Spending in the US, A review of 2017 

and Outlook to 2022, IQVIAInstitute, April 2018.

10

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Global Market Healthcare Trends

Global healthcare spend  
is forecast to grow at 5-6% 
per annum to reach $1.4 
trillion by 2022 1.

New drug launches in the US 
are expected to average 
40-45 per annum to 2022, a 
significant increase compared 
to the approval rates over the 
past five years 2.

Orphan drug sector forecast 
to double in size by 2024, 
accounting for approximately 
20% of prescription sales 2.

Specialty drugs forecast to 
represent 52% of the top  
100 product sales by 2024, 
accounting for 48% of spend 
in developed markets 2.

Pharmaceutical R&D spend 
remains positive with a 
forecast growth rate of 3%  
to 2024 3.

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Divisional Specific Market Opportunities

Ashfield  
Advisory 
Key growth drivers:

Ashfield 
Communications 
Key growth drivers:

Increasing outsourcing penetration 

Increasing outsourcing penetration 

Changes and increasingly complex 
specialty therapies and launches

Growing demand for data and 
informed research to improve 
decision making 

Increasing number of molecules  
in development and positive FDA 
approval outlook 

Growth of specialty products leading 
to increased demand for multi-
channel and digital communications

Increasing number of molecules in 
development and positive FDA 
approval outlook 

Migration to direct patient engagement

Growth in orphan drugs for 
rare diseases

Ashfield Commercial  
& Clinical 
Key growth drivers:

Significant potential for increased 
outsourcing 

Increasing demand for innovative 
models, multi-channel offerings and 
multi-country solutions 

Growth of specialty products leading 
to increased complexity and support 
requirements

Increasing importance of patient 
adherence

Increasing number of molecules in 
development and positive FDA 
approval outlook

Estimated market size*

$2.9bn

Estimated market size*

$7.3bn

Estimated market size*

$6.1bn

Sharp Commercial Packaging 

Sharp Clinical Services 

Key growth drivers:

Key growth drivers:

Significant potential for increased outsourcing 

Increasing outsourcing penetration 

Demand for secondary packaging of injectable products

Increasing requirement to access specialist technology 
solutions and capabilities

Client demand for deeper strategic relationships with 
contract partners

Demand from emerging and mid-size pharma companies  
for end-to-end integrated service offerings 

Greater demand for digital solutions including Clinical IRT 
and Serialisation

US & EU estimated market size*

$5bn–7bn

US & EU estimated market size*

$6bn–8bn

* Sources for market sizes: Derived from BCG, Deloitte and internal analysis.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

11

Our Business Model

UDG Healthcare is a global leader in healthcare 
advisory, communications, commercial, clinical and 
packaging services. We are an industry-leading partner 
of choice for healthcare companies seeking expert 
outsourcing services. Our business model revolves 
around continuously improving our core businesses 
and identifying and acquiring strong businesses that 
complement and add value. 

We benefit from a balanced portfolio, the diversity of 
our client base and our wide geographic spread. We do 
all of this while maintaining strong financial discipline 
and efficient capital deployment which generates 
consistent and superior returns for shareholders. Our 
people are at the heart of our business model and our 
values of quality, partnership, ingenuity, expertise and 
energy underpin everything we do.

Our values are what  
sets us apart

Our culture and values influence how we behave and underpin 
everything we do.

Quality
For us, only the best is good enough. Quality 
underpins everything we say and everything we do. 
We set high standards, develop our people  
and deliver a quality service that will surpass our 
clients’ expectations.

Partnership
We build on trust through delivering on our 
promises. We work in partnership with each other 
and with our clients. This way we build relationships, 
based on trust, integrity and transparency.

Inputs

Employees
We continue to strengthen employee skills, communication and 
engagement and foster an environment which empowers our people  
to execute our business model successfully.

Number of employees 

8,700+

Capital 
Our strong balance sheet supports the delivery of continued growth 
through M&A, to supplement organic growth. We are continuously 
identifying and acquiring highly complementary businesses that drive 
value and generate attractive returns. In 2018, we completed two 
acquisitions, following the completion of six acquisitions in 2017. 

M&A spend

$82.4m

Facilities and Infrastructure
We are well-positioned to execute our business model, having a robust 
operating platform, a diverse geographical footprint and the capability  
to consistently improve our client offering through our state-of-the-
art facilities.

Capital expenditure

$60.6m

Ingenuity
We are committed to solving problems and 
resourcefully thinking every day. We build solutions 
for our clients using creativity and innovation.

Stakeholders and Relationships
We work as a proactive and long-term business partner with our clients, 
delivering integrated healthcare services solutions based on market 
foresight, contributing to better business for our stakeholders.

Number of clients 

300+

Expertise
Together we have a wealth of knowledge and skills 
built over many years. Through strong business  
and financial leadership, we deliver excellence and 
enhance our client experience.

Energy
We achieve our clients’ goals with imagination  
and passion. We are enthusiastic for success,  
always ensuring we engage, listen and work  
together to build the best solutions.

12

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
How we create value

y

Q u alit

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Partn

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Experti s e

Capital deplo y m e

t

n

Delivering Sustainable Growth

Profit and Cash Generation
Both Ashfield and Sharp are focused on growing profits organically and through 
acquisitions, and maximising cash conversion from our operations to support the 
development and execution of our strategy.

Capital Deployment
Disciplined financial management allows for ongoing reinvestment 
in the business to sustain our growth model and capitalise on the opportunity  
to grow our services.

Shareholder Value
Successful delivery of our strategy results in increased shareholder value  
and progressive dividend growth.

The Group is organised and managed across two separate divisions:

Ashfield

Sharp

Read more on page 36 

Read more on page 42 

What we deliver  
for our stakeholders

Clients
Our focus is to be a leading international partner 
of choice so that, together with our clients, we 
can help improve the lives of patients. 

We partner with the top 30 global 
pharmaceutical companies 

30

Shareholders
Our business model delivers sustainable 
long-term value for our shareholders and  
we operate a progressive dividend policy. 

Dividend to shareholders 

$34.7m

Employees
We are committed to investing in our employees’ 
career development to ensure they can perform 
in their roles to the highest standards.

Remuneration to employees

$614.2m 

Patients
Our service offering provides patients with 
insights and solutions to help improve their lives. 

Number of active patient support 
programmes globally

70+

Local Communities
In addition to selecting three official charity 
organisations every year we partner with a 
significant number of charity groups globally.

Number of charities supported globally

c.70

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

13

 
 
 
Our Strategy

Shaping a 
platform for 
strategic 
growth

Our values guide us in delivering on our 
mission to improve the lives of patients 
around the world every day. 

Our strategy is to capitalise on the 
increasing trend among pharmaceutical, 
biotech and healthcare companies to 
outsource specialist and non-core 
activities on an international basis. 

We have defined a clear set of strategic 
pillars in order to deliver on our strategy. 
To support this, we need to ensure that 
we continue to develop leading 
capabilities to harness UDG Healthcare’s 
global growth potential.

Key to strategic linkage in this report

Improve productivity 

Transform through people 

Grow and develop market-leading positions 

14

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Improve  
productivity

Our aims

We consistently improve our operating efficiencies across the Group.  
We measure this through benchmarking our commercial and financial 
performance against specific KPIs.

Operational Excellence
We are building capability across our business and focusing on the three 
pillars of our strategy to help drive profitable growth. We monitor our 
businesses against six financial and three non-financial KPIs. Our KPIs 
support the execution of our strategy and are important drivers of 
improved business performance over the short, medium and long term. 

Progress in 2018: Continued improvement across KPIs. 

Margin Expansion
We aim to continually increase margins to drive improved profitability. 
Improving productivity and increasing operational efficiencies are a key 
focus of our organic growth strategy to drive the expansion of business 
unit, divisional and Group margins.

Progress in 2018: Net margins increased to 13.1%. 

Capital Deployment
We have a strong track record of efficient capital allocation and we deploy 
capital in areas where we identify the greatest strategic benefit and 
shareholder returns. We continue to invest in scalable infrastructure  
to support the delivery of sustainable future growth, ensuring there is  
a robust infrastructure in place to manage the existing business and to 
integrate future acquisitions.

Progress in 2018: Sharp Clinical successfully progressed the 
transfer of operations to newly-invested facilities in the US 
and UK.

Key Performance Indicators:

Net operating margin

Return on capital employed

13.1% 

12.7%

For more KPI information see page 22 

For Key Risk information see page 28 

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
 
Transform  
through people

Grow and  
develop market  
leading positions

Our aims

Our aims

We are a people-based business operating in dynamic healthcare markets 
that are highly regulated and demand high quality and compliance standards. 
We are building our culture and transforming our business by living our 
values. We are focused on attracting, developing and retaining the best  
talent so that we support and deliver on our clients’ ambitions.

Talent and Leadership
Our people are core to our service delivery; their development is vital to our 
success. We continuously develop our employees to ensure we have the right 
people, in the right place, with the right skills.

Progress in 2018: There has been a continued focus on key talent 
management practices including leadership and management 
development, succession planning and performance management.

Quality and Compliance
We enable our clients to outsource with confidence by exceeding our  
clients expectations and providing the highest quality standards possible.  
We are consistently focused on regulatory compliance and good 
environmental stewardship.

Progress in 2018: ComplianceCentre resource has been established 
to manage all quality and compliance training.

Values-Based Culture
Our values influence our ability to attract and retain customers, employees, 
investors and suppliers and are key to our long-term sustainability. We 
continue to work hard to integrate our values in our business processes  
and are mindful of them in the decisions we make.

Progress in 2018: We received the results of our first global 
engagement survey which was designed to understand how we 
embed our values in our culture. All businesses are addressing any 
action areas identified from the feedback.

We believe scale in major markets, international reach and reputation  
are key to business development success. We aim to be a leading operator 
in each of our priority markets and to continue to expand our 
market positions.

Geographical and Services Growth
We will continue to grow our activities organically across our priority 
markets of the US, Europe and Japan. Our organic service development 
and expansion will be enhanced by strategic acquisitions of 
complementary services and capabilities. The Group has a track record  
of successfully acquiring and integrating businesses which strengthen our 
market positions and deliver returns on capital in excess of 15%.

Progress in 2018: Operating profits grew by 14% and North 
America accounted for 54% of Group revenues.

Client Focus and Commercial Excellence
Working in partnership with our clients and providing bespoke solutions 
is fundamental to our business. By understanding our clients we become 
an essential partner, helping them to succeed in a dynamic and 
increasingly complex operating environment.

Progress in 2018: Launched the Ashfield Solution, an agile, 
multi-channel commercial model.

Supplementary Sources of Growth
We aim to improve, transform and grow our service offering to capitalise 
fully on growth opportunities and shifting market trends. This allows us  
to differentiate our service offering and leverage our market positions by 
enhancing the range of capabilities we can offer to our clients.

Progress in 2018: Completed the acquisitions of Create NYC  
and SmartAnalyst.

Key Performance Indicators:

Key Performance Indicators:

Response rate to the global 
engagement survey

Sustainable engagement 
score 

78%

80%

Earnings per share

45.94c

North American revenues

54%

For more KPI information see page 22 

For more KPI information see page 22 

For Key Risk information see page 28 

For Key Risk information see page 28 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

15

 
 
 
 
Delivering on Our Strategy

Case study
Improving our service offering

A new, agile,  
multi-channel, 
commercial model 
to improve ROI 

 “As the pharmaceutical industry 
continues to evolve, flexibility 
and scalability underpinned by 
analytics are essential within 
the commercial sales model.”

Julian Tompkins  
President of Ashfield Commercial & Clinical 

16

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

In February 2018, Ashfield launched the 
Ashfield Solution, a new, agile, multi-channel 
commercial engagement model designed for 
maximum impact and to improve return on 
investment (ROI). This transformational new 
approach offers tailored targeting and a 
promotional mix that reflects local market 
dynamics, formulary changes, physician 
preferences and behaviours, and the different 
access situations relevant to our sales 
representatives. It also helps clients respond  
to market changes such as margin pressure, 
loss of exclusivity, new product data and new 
market entrants.

The Ashfield Solution is underpinned by the 
AshfieldGuide, a sophisticated sales analytics 
and planning platform. It uses advanced 
analytics capabilities such as curve modelling 
and segmentation techniques utilising 
best-in-class machine learning, artificial 
intelligence and algorithms. As a result,  
the Ashfield Solution maximises ROI through 
traditional representative interactions  
blended with inside sales representative, 
representative on-demand, field service 
representative, clinical nurses and medical 
science liaisons.

This pioneering solution delivers in-depth 
monthly reporting on ROI, call attainment  
and performance, allowing the continuous 
measurement of the impact of each type of 
engagement. This allows the promotional mix 
to be flexed at regular intervals to ensure 
maximum impact. 

Read Ashfield’s Operating Review  
on page 36 

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Multi-channel service options 

8

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

17

Delivering on Our Strategy (continued)

Case study
Transforming through acquisitions

Strengthening  
our US presence 

 “The two acquisitions further 
expand the services we offer to 
healthcare clients. Create NYC 
adds innovative creative services 
within Ashfield Communications 
and SmartAnalyst expands 
Ashfield’s Advisory offering 
adding new capabilities in strategic 
consulting and the high-growth 
area of Health Economics and 
Outcomes Research.”

Brendan McAtamney  
Chief Executive Officer 

18

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

In July 2018, UDG Healthcare announced the 
acquisitions of Create NYC and SmartAnalyst 
continuing the transformation of our 
organisation and strengthening our presence  
in the US. Both based in New York and dedicated 
to the healthcare industry, Create NYC is a 
disruptive creative communications agency and 
SmartAnalyst is a strategic commercialisation 
consulting and analytics business.

Create NYC offers the tactical execution of  
sales and marketing materials for international 
pharmaceutical clients. Founded in 2009 by 
Natalie McDonald, who remains with the 
company as CEO, it has built a unique, disruptive 
model which gives clients high-impact, on-
demand, flexible marketing support with  
a flat fee structure. This approach complements 
the more traditional agency model. The 
acquisition of Create NYC is in line with 
Ashfield’s strategy to expand into areas of 
differentiated but aligned adjacencies to its  
core scientific communication capabilities. 

SmartAnalyst is a strategic consulting and 
analytics business focused on the pharmaceutical 
and biotech sector. The company was founded  
in 2001 and has 135 employees based across 
operations in New York, London and Gurgaon, 
India. The business provides strategic consulting 
services to support disease, asset and portfolio-
level decisions as well as Health Economics and 
Outcomes Research (HEOR) services. 
SmartAnalyst expands Ashfield’s Advisory 
service proposition providing access to 
commercial development decision makers,  
as well as infrastructure in India.

Read Ashfield’s Operating Review  
on page 36 

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Ashfield spend on acquisitions in 2018

$82.4m

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

19

Delivering on Our Strategy (continued)

Case study
Growing Sharp US

Sharp US:  
A decade of growth 
and a thriving 
partnership with 
our clients

 “I have been with Sharp for over 40 years 
and it has been fascinating to watch the 
business and buildings grow from a small 
company that originally housed printing, 
packaging and warehousing all in the 
same building. 

I take particular pride in how far we have 
come technically over those years, from 
pioneering serialisation solutions in 
2008 to exploring the use of 
robotic automation today.”

Stephen Hamaday  
Director of Engineering, Sharp Packaging US

20

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

2018 marks the 10th anniversary of the 
acquisition by UDG Healthcare of Sharp 
Packaging US in Allentown and 
Conshohocken, PA. Since 2008, UDG has 
invested more than $100 million in capital 
expenditure in Sharp US which has resulted  
in almost a doubling of available capacity,  
a doubling of the workforce and greater than 
seven-fold increase in operating profit over 
that time. 

UDG’s strategy of investing in people, facilities 
and infrastructure continues today, as 
demonstrated most recently by the expansion 
of Sharp’s cold-chain capacity in Allentown. 
This further supports the specialist handling 
and distribution demands of pharma clients  
in the rapidly growing injectables market.

By any standards Sharp US has been a very 
successful acquisition and continues to make 
an important contribution to the growth and 
development of UDG Healthcare today.  
The energy, expertise and ingenuity of the 
employees in Allentown and Conshohocken 
are a vital part of that success. More than 30% 
of those employees have over ten years of 
service with Sharp, a fitting testament to  
a thriving partnership.

Read Sharp’s Operating Review  
on page 42 

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Capex spend since 2008

$100m

Increase in operating profit 
since 2008

x7

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

21

Key Performance Indicators

The Group has a range of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) which are used to monitor Group 
performance, operations and measure progress against our strategy. 

Financial KPI #1

Financial KPI #2

Financial KPI #3

Total Shareholder  
Return (TSR)

Earnings Per Share  
(EPS) Growth

Net Operating Margin 

Definition

Definition

Definition

TSR is the total return to an investor, 
being the capital gain plus reinvested 
dividends. The return is measured as 
an average return over three years.

Growth in adjusted diluted EPS 
achieved in the year.

Measures operating profit  
as a percentage of net revenue. 

Strategic Linkage 

Strategic Linkage 

Strategic Linkage 

TSR is a key metric used to ensure  
the Group is delivering returns on 
invested capital and maintaining strong 
cash flows to support the combined 
development of the Group and its 
dividend payment. Principally, it is  
used to tie executive management 
remuneration to shareholder returns  
by linking the vesting and quantum  
of awards under the Long Term 
Incentive Plan (LTIP) to performance 
relative to other FTSE 250 companies.

%
4
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3
5
1

7
1
0
2

%
8
.
6
5

8
1
0
2

EPS is an important financial measure  
of corporate profitability and the 
Group’s financial progress.

Net operating margin is a key metric  
in measuring operating efficiency across 
the Group, divisions and business units. 
Continued improvements in net 
operating margin demonstrate the 
successful execution of the 
Group’s strategy. 

c
4
9
.
5
4

c
2
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.
7
3

7
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1
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2

%
6
.
2
1

%
1
.
3
1

7
1
0
2

8
1
0
2

Performance

Performance

Performance

The Group delivered a three-year 
average TSR of 56.8% in 2018 compared 
to 153.4% in 2017. 

Link to Remuneration 

This is a performance metric for  
the LTIP, accounting for 50% of any 
awards made.

The 24% increase in EPS was primarily 
driven by operating profit growth from 
the Ashfield and Sharp divisions, as well 
as the acquisitions during the year. 
Foreign exchange translation increased 
EPS growth by 2% from 22% constant 
currency growth to 24% reported growth.

Link to Remuneration 

Adjusted EPS growth is a key measure  
of growth and a driver of TSR, which 
accounts for 50% of LTIP awards made.

The overall Group net operating margin 
has increased from 2017. The positive 
margin effect of acquisitions, higher 
revenue growth in the higher margin 
businesses and savings from 
restructuring more than offset the 
impact of additional Future Fit 
operating costs. 

Link to Remuneration 

Net operating margin is a key driver 
of Profit Before Tax (PBT) which 
represents a significant element  
of annual bonus potential.

22

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Key to strategic linkage in this report

Improve productivity 

Transform through people 

Grow and develop market-leading positions 

Financial KPI #4

Financial KPI #5

Financial KPI #6

Net Revenue 

Operating Cash Flow 

Return on Capital  
Employed (ROCE) 

Definition

Definition

Definition

Comprises gross revenue as reported  
in the Group Income Statement, 
adjusted for revenue associated with 
pass-through costs for which the  
Group does not earn a margin.

Operating cash flow is net cash  
inflow from operating activities per  
the Group Cash Flow Statement on 
page 106.

ROCE is profit before interest and  
tax expressed as a percentage of the 
Group’s net assets employed. See 
page 170.

Strategic Linkage 

Strategic Linkage 

Strategic Linkage 

Net revenue is a key metric in  
measuring growth in operations across 
the Group, divisions and business units. 
Continued growth in net revenue 
demonstrates the successful execution 
of the Group’s strategy.

The generation of cash from operations 
is a key driver of shareholder returns 
and also enables the Group to invest  
in capital expenditure and acquisitions 
to enhance future growth.

ROCE is a key financial benchmark 
which measures both the return from, 
and performance of, investments in our 
business. The Group strives to consistently 
achieve returns well in excess of its cost 
of capital.

m
7
.
9
2
1
,
1
$

m
5
.
8
2
0
,
1
$

7
1
0
2

8
1
0
2

m
8
.
7
0
1
$

m
5
.
2
0
1
$

7
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0
2

8
1
0
2

%
8
.
2
1

%
7
.
2
1

7
1
0
2

8
1
0
2

Performance

Performance

Performance

The Group’s net revenue increased 10%, 
benefiting from acquisitions.

Link to Remuneration 

Net Revenue is a performance metric 
which accounts for a portion of annual 
bonus potential.

The Group has achieved operating  
cash flows of $102.5 million. This has 
decreased from 2017, driven by an 
increase in working capital.

Link to Remuneration 

The ratio of operating cash flow  
to operating profit forms the basis  
of a performance metric for the  
LTIP, accounting for 50% of any awards  
made. Operating cash flow is also  
an annual bonus performance metric.

The Group’s ROCE was 12.7% compared 
to 12.8% in 2017.

Link to Remuneration 

ROCE is significantly influenced by  
PBIT and cash flow performance,  
both of which are key annual bonus 
performance metrics.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

23

 
Key Performance Indicators  
(continued)

Key to strategic linkage in this report

Improve productivity 

Transform through people 

Grow and develop market-leading positions 

Non-Financial KPI #1

Non-Financial KPI #2

Non-Financial KPI #3

Quality & Compliance 

Environmental, Health 
and Safety (EHS)

Living Our Values 

Definition

Definition

Definition

Our vision and values are underpinned 
by our desire to maintain the highest 
ethical standards in everything that  
we do. We are committed to always 
meeting our legal and regulatory 
obligations. Our compliance 
programme sets out the system we 
have adopted to help ensure that  
we meet this commitment.

EHS audits comprise of a 
comprehensive and structured review 
whereby information is collected 
relating to the efficiency, effectiveness, 
and reliability of our businesses EHS 
management systems.

How we embed UDG’s values into  
our people processes and the method  
of measurement for how we live the 
values in our organisation. 

Strategic Linkage 

Strategic Linkage 

Strategic Linkage 

One of the measures for ensuring that 
our Quality and Compliance systems 
and processes are providing a robust 
basis for our business is through our 
performance in audits by regulators  
and professional standards bodies.  
25 regulator audits were carried out 
throughout UDG by regulators in 2018.

100%

Success rate. No material findings  
were observed.

Compliance with regulation and 
application of industry standards are 
essential in the delivery of our strategy. 

80%

Since the introduction of our EHS  
audit programme in 2014, over 80%  
of UDG Healthcare businesses have  
been audited. 

This year as part of our audit 
programme we have focused  
on closing EHS audit actions. 

Our values define our culture for all 
employees and enable our strategy.  
By demonstrating the behaviours 
underpinning our values, our leaders 
continue to build a values based culture 
for the benefit of our clients, our people  
and the success of our business. 

79%

The percentage of employees who see 
our values lived throughout the Group. 

Performance

Performance

Performance

Our global employee engagement 
survey provided valuable feedback  
on culture. Our Global CEO Awards 
reinforce recognition of employees  
who demonstrate the values.

Link to Remuneration 

Businesses have implemented action 
plans to address local opportunities for 
improvement identified in the survey. 

All regulatory audits completed this  
year in both Ashfield and Sharp were 
successful. ISO 9001 certification was 
achieved in Ashfield Austria for the first 
time. There were no regulatory breaches 
during the year.

We are pleased with our performance 
against our internal standards as a 
number of our sites have achieved over 
70% completion of all EHS audit actions.

Link to Remuneration 

Link to Remuneration 

The EHS audit programme has an 
indirect impact on business revenue. 
Both internal and external client audit 
results demonstrate our compliance 
with EHS regulatory requirements and 
industry best practice, supporting 
business development and retention.

A key objective of the Quality and 
Compliance system is to ensure that 
when audited by reporting authorities 
and clients we are compliant with their 
requirements. This means adhering to 
both the regulatory requirements and 
the professional standards applied in 
our sector. Management all have 
objectives to ensure successful 
audit outcomes.

24

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
Risk Management

Embedding our Enterprise  
Risk Management programme 
throughout the business 

Our employees understand the benefits of identifying, assessing and managing  
both risks and opportunities, and see the value in managing these proactively. 

Risk Management Process
As the Enterprise Risk Management Process 
evolves it become increasingly important to 
ensure that risks impacting the organisation’s 
growth strategy are anticipated and 
communicated to the senior executives and  
to the Board along with the corresponding 
mitigation strategies. It is not intended to 
eliminate all risk from the business but to 
ensure that the risks taken are appropriate, 
well managed and well communicated.

The process of reviewing the risks within each 
business unit involves both a bottom-up and  
a top -down approach. The risk registers are 
developed and maintained within each 
business unit and communicated to the Head 
of Compliance at least twice per year. Reviews 
with the divisional leads have continued and 
good progress is being made in raising 
awareness of risks and also in using risk 
assessment as an operations management 
tool. Risks are also reviewed at a divisional 
level and by the Risk, Investment and 
Financing Committee at least twice per year. 
Any changes to the risk rating are reviewed  
in line with the Board’s risk appetite and any 
required changes to the risk mitigations are 
fed back into the operations through the 
Group Head of Compliance. 

The UDG Healthcare Code of Conduct which 
was issued in December 2017 was circulated 
for training Group-wide on the 
ComplianceCentre during 2018.

Board oversight

Executive monitoring and review

Risk 
identification 
and assessment 

Risk
Management
Process
Business and functional 
expertise

Execution  
of mitigation  
plans
Executive monitoring and review

Mitigation 
development  
and planning
Board oversight

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

25

Risk Management  
(continued)

Risk Management Process (continued)
As technological developments continue to 
advance, the Group placed a greater focus on 
cyber security during the year. October 2017 
was designated cyber security month and a 
series of workshops, communications, 
screensavers and brochures were distributed 
focusing on employee behaviour to reduce  
the risk and to promote safe use of electronic 
access and data controls. Specific training  
was developed and rolled out to the extended 
finance teams throughout the organisation  
to ensure that they were made aware of the 
risks related to impersonation and phishing. 
Significant investment in technology to 
combat the ever-increasing risks related to 
data security have also been included in the 
Future Fit workstream.

The GDPR legislation came into force in  
May 2018 and the required policies, training, 
gap analyses and road map have been 
implemented to mitigate GDPR risk across the 
Group. A thorough audit schedule is planned 
for FY2019 to support compliance both with 
EU requirements but also other local 
requirements outside of the EU.

Viability Statement
In accordance with the relevant provisions set 
out in the UK Corporate Governance Code, 
the Board has carried out a robust assessment 
of the principal risks facing the Group, 
including those which would threaten its 
business model, future performance, solvency 
or liquidity. The nature of, and the strategies, 
practices and controls to mitigate those risks 
are addressed in the Principal Risks and 
Uncertainties section on pages 25 to 31. 

Using the Group’s Long Term Strategic Plan, 
which is reviewed and approved by the Board 
annually, the prospects of the Group have 
been assessed over the three-year period  
to 30 September 2021. The Strategic Plan 
considers the market opportunities within  
the healthcare sector, the Group’s cash flows, 
committed funding and liquidity positions, 
forecast future funding requirements, banking 
covenants and other key financial ratios. 

The Strategic Plan is built on a business by 
business basis and the model is subjected to 
sensitivity analysis. Appropriate stress testing 
of certain key performance, solvency and 
liquidity assumptions underlying the Strategic 
Plan has been conducted taking account of 
the principal risks and uncertainties faced and 
possible severe but plausible combinations of 
those risks and uncertainties. The sensitivity 
analysis focused on five scenarios where 
changes to the economic environment or 
compliance issues could have an impact. 
These scenarios have been incorporated into 
the Risk Management Framework and are 
reviewed and managed in line with the 
Group’s risk appetite.

These scenarios can be summarised as follows:
1.  the largest site by profit generation 

becomes inoperable for an extended 
period of time and produces no 
contribution in 2019 and slowly recovers to 
50% of expected 2018 profitability by 2021; 

2.  a large-scale acquisition of approximately 

$300 million produces no profit in year one 
post-acquisition and recovers to a profit 
level of only $10 million by 2021; 
3.  there is significant, defined as 20%, 

weakening of euro and sterling foreign 
exchange rates relative to the US dollar;

4.  there is an imposition of price controls  
or price reductions in the US healthcare 
market; and

5.  a combination of both scenarios two and 
four above occurring simultaneously. 

As a result of this assessment, the Directors 
confirm that they have a reasonable 
expectation that the Group will continue to 
operate and meet its liabilities as they fall due 
for the next three years to 30 September 2021.

Going Concern
The Group’s business activities, together  
with the factors likely to affect its future 
development, performance and position, are 
set out in the Strategic Report. The financial 
position of the Group, its cash flows and 
liquidity position are described in the Finance 
Review on page 32. In addition, Note 31 to the 
consolidated financial statements includes the 
Group’s objectives, policies and processes for 
managing its capital; its financial risk 
management objectives; details of its financial 
instruments and hedging activities; and its 
exposures to credit, currency, cash flow and 
liquidity risks.

The Group has considerable financial 
resources and a large number of customers 
and suppliers across different geographic 
areas and industries. Having assessed the 
relevant business risks, the Directors believe 
that the Group is well placed to manage its 
business risks successfully.

The directors have a reasonable expectation 
that the Group has adequate resources to 
continue in operational existence for the 
foreseeable future. For this reason, they 
continue to adopt the going concern basis  
in preparing the financial statements.

26

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Principal Risks and Uncertainties 

Managing risks and opportunities is integral to the delivery of the Group’s strategic objectives. The three strategic pillars remain the same in 2018 
as they were in 2017 and in the Principal Risk and Uncertainties listed overleaf, the link to the strategy is given through the strategy icons.

High Level Summary
All of the Principal Risks and Uncertainties are listed in the follow pages but the section below provides a high level summary of those key risks 
impacting directly on the business strategy.

Strategic Pillars

Key Considerations

Key Risks

Operational efficiencies are enhanced by a continued 
investment in infrastructure through Future Fit and 
major software projects. Combined and supported  
by the application of operational excellence 
methodologies across the Group we are making 
progress on margin expansion.

IT systems and cyber security

Contract management

Business continuity

Financial controls

Improve  
productivity

In order to attract, develop and retain the talent 
needed to transform our business we are emphasising 
our values -based culture as the basis for behaviour. 
People are key to delivering on our targets and the 
continuous focus on how results are delivered ensures 
compliance with all requirements and a right first 
time expectation.

Talent management

Regulatory compliance

Transform 
through people

To develop and establish scale in major markets both 
acquisitions and organic growth are key. Continued 
client focus, both on service and on diversification 
supports organic growth. Acquisition activity remains 
focused on synergies with existing businesses and 
diversifying our offering to match the outsourcing 
requirement of our clients.

Acquisitions including integration

Client management

Grow and develop 
market leading 
positions

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

27

 
 
 
Principal Risks and Uncertainties
(continued)

Key to strategic linkage in this report

Improve productivity 

Transform through people 

Grow and develop market-leading positions 

Strategic Risks

Risk

Impact

Mitigation

Value Generation 
from Acquisitions

Acquisitive growth remains a core element 
of the Group’s strategy. A failure to 
execute and properly integrate 
acquisitions may impact the Group’s 
projected revenue growth and its ability to 
capitalise on the synergies they bring and/
or to maintain and develop the associated 
talent pool.

Lack of Client 
Diversification

As the Group’s activities consolidate and 
further acquisitions are completed, the 
Group’s client base may become more 
concentrated, making the Group more 
susceptible to competitive, client merger 
or procurement led threats. 

Client 
Outsourcing 
Strategy

Changes to pharma company outsourcing 
strategy such as a reduced roster of 
preferred vendors, or a wholesale move  
to outsource to holding companies that 
meets all of their service requirements.

Talent 
Management

The success of the Group is built upon 
effective management teams that 
consistently deliver superior performance. 
If the Group cannot attract, retain or 
develop suitably qualified, experienced 
and motivated employees, this could have 
an impact on business performance.

Brexit

The trading uncertainty associated with 
Brexit may result in some UDG Healthcare 
clients reducing the size of their UK 
operations or have a negative impact on 
our ability to conduct business profitably 
in the UK. 

All potential acquisitions are assessed and 
evaluated to ensure the Group’s defined 
strategic and financial criteria are met.  
A discrete integration process and post 
integration review is developed for each 
acquisition. This process is supported by 
experienced management with a view to 
achieving identified benefits, cultivating 
talent and minimising general and specific 
integration risks.

In individual business units where there is 
a high dependence on a small number of 
key clients, the threats and opportunities 
are reviewed by divisional management at 
each business review. The impact that any 
potential acquisition may have on client 
concentration is considered as part of the 
acquisition assessment process. 

In order to maintain or develop into a 
preferred vendor for our target clients, 
acquisitions can be used to fill any key 
gaps in service offering. The key is to 
maintain client relationships and to keep 
abreast of potential changes in their 
business strategy. We have developed an 
agile business development strategy to 
maximise our value to clients.

Talent requirements of the Group are 
monitored to ensure businesses meet 
prevailing and future requirements in 
terms of skills, competencies and 
performance. There is a strong focus  
on key talent management practices, 
including leadership and management 
development, succession planning and 
performance management. 

The impact of Brexit on movement of 
people and distribution of goods is not  
yet clear and this is generating increased 
uncertainty, affecting exchange rates and 
client willingness to develop business in 
the UK. The overall Group exposure to  
the UK as a proportion of our total 
profitability is expected to decline as we 
acquire businesses with greater exposure 
to markets other than the UK.

Progress

  No Change

  Decreased Risk

The dependence of each 
business unit on a single client 
has reduced.

  New Risk

  No Change

  Increased Risk

There is significant uncertainty 
around reaching an agreement 
on Brexit.

28

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
Strategic Risks (continued)

Risk

Impact

Mitigation

Economic and 
Political Risk

The global macroeconomic and 
geopolitical environment may have a 
detrimental impact on our client base. 
Price controls and price reductions are 
prevalent in the pharmaceutical industry 
therefore we may have certain exposures 
to any weakening market segments.

The Group continues to review its 
portfolio of investments through the 
annual strategic review process and 
through constant challenge at a senior 
executive and Board level. Acquisitions 
and new service offerings are sought 
which improve the balance of our 
investments and give greater exposure to 
innovative and growing market segments. 
The overall strategy is to increase market 
share in the US.

Progress

  No Change

Innovation and 
Insight

The continued success of the Group has 
been dependent upon the delivery of 
innovative solutions to our clients. 
Examples include serialised packaging, 
and multichannel CSO. An inability to 
predict and deliver such innovation would 
be a risk to the maintenance of our market 
leading positions in the various sectors in 
which we operate.

Innovation and insight is at the fore of all 
business strategies set down by the senior 
executive team (SET). At a divisional level 
each management team has a 
responsibility to identify current and 
projected client demand for new service 
offerings and market changes and have 
designated roles within their business 
units tasked to deliver on this. 

  New Risk

Operational Risks

Risk

Impact

Mitigation

Patient Risk

Throughout the Group medicines and 
medical devices can be packaged, 
supplied or administered directly to 
patients. The risk of inappropriate advice, 
packaging, supply or administration could 
lead to a negative patient experience.

Packaging and supply activity is carried 
out under licence from local health 
regulators and a contract with the 
marketing authorisation holder (MAH). 
Serialisation is being introduced as a 
global solution to falsified medicines and 
to improve MAH product traceability. 
Administration of medicines to patients  
or providing patient support is covered by 
a detailed client contract with the MAH, 
fully approved scripts, and a divisional 
clinical governance framework. The 
introduction this year of Health Cloud has 
brought additional assurance to the 
patient support programmes. 

Progress

  No Change

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

29

Principal Risks and Uncertainties  
(continued)

Key to strategic linkage in this report

Improve productivity 

Transform through people 

Grow and develop market-leading positions 

Operational Risks (continued)

Risk

Impact

Mitigation

The Group has many legal and regulatory 
obligations, including in respect of: (a) 
protection of patient information (such as 
HIPAA and GDPR); and (b) patient and 
employee health and safety. In addition, 
many of the Group’s activities are subject 
to stringent licensing regulations, for 
example, FDA, EMEA and national  
agency manufacturing, packaging and 
promotional regulations and more 
recently the serialisation requirements 
under the FMD. A failure to meet any  
of these could result in regulatory 
restrictions, financial penalties, the 
inability to operate, or products and 
services being defective, harming patients 
and potentially giving rise to very 
significant liability.

Maintenance of legal, regulatory and 
quality standards is a core value of the 
Group. The Sharp Division and Ashfield 
Pharmacovigilance are subjected to 
routine FDA, EMEA and national agency 
inspections and so are required to be 
‘audit ready’ at all times. Patient education 
and information programmes are 
reviewed to ensure compliance with 
regulation and codes of practice and are 
subject to regular assessment by Quality 
and Compliance. Following the 
introduction of GDPR, regular data 
protection auditing has now commenced 
across EU locations in 2018 while data 
protection training and gap analyses have 
commenced outside the EU to focus on 
local data protection law compliance. 

The ability of the Group to provide its 
services effectively and competitively is 
dependent on technology and information 
systems that are appropriately integrated 
and that meet current and anticipated 
future business, regulatory and security 
requirements.

The Group’s technology and information 
systems and infrastructure are the subject 
of an ongoing programme to ensure that 
they are capable of meeting the Group’s 
strategic intent and future requirements. 
Collectively this initiative is referred to as 
Future Fit IT. 

Progress

  No Change

  No Change

Regulatory 
Compliance

IT Systems Risk

Contract Risk

Cyber Security 

The underlying terms of the Group’s 
commercial relationships drive the 
profitability of the Group. The nature  
of the Group’s business means that the 
Group could be exposed to undue cost or 
liability if it agrees inappropriate terms.

The Group has adopted processes for 
identifying and mitigating against undue 
risks in all prospective commercial 
relationships, supported by personnel 
with expertise and/or experience in key 
commercial risk areas. 

  Decreased Risk

The process of identifying and 
mitigating undue contractual 
risks has continued during 
FY2018.

The global threat sophistication is 
increasing due to support from criminal 
organisations and nation states targeting 
valuable information including 
impersonation. These are advanced 
persistent threats targeted at both 
business-critical data and using 
ransomware for financial gain.

Business 
Continuity

The Group is exposed to risks that, should 
they arise, may give rise to the interruption 
of critical business processes that could 
adversely impact the Group or its clients.

30

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

  No Change

  No Change

As part of Future Fit IT, the Group is 
implementing multi-layered information 
security defences to identify vulnerabilities 
and protect against attacks. To meet the 
increasing cyber threat procedures are 
being developed and resources are being 
hired to detect and respond effectively to 
any cyber security events that may occur. 
Specific training has been delivered 
throughout the global finance 
organisation to alert staff to the risks.  
A month long communication campaign 
‘Think before you dive in’ was carried out. 
Cyber security insurance is now in place.

The Group has developed a business 
continuity template based on risk and  
is currently re-working its operational 
business continuity plans in line with this. 
Mitigation strategies and continuity plans 
are part of a structured risk review 
process. There have been no significant 
business interruptions to date. 

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
Financial Risks

Risk

Financial 
Controls

Impact

Mitigation

The Group’s resources and finances must 
be managed in accordance with rigorous 
standards and stringent controls. A failure 
to meet those standards or implement 
appropriate controls may result in the 
Group’s resources being improperly 
utilised or its financial statements being 
inaccurate or misleading.

Liquidity

The Group is exposed to liquidity, interest 
rate, currency and credit risks.

Foreign Exchange UDG Healthcare plc’s reporting currency 

is the US dollar. Given the nature of the 
Group’s businesses, exposure arises in  
the normal course of business to other 
currencies, principally sterling and euro. 

The financial controls of the Group, as well 
as their effectiveness, are monitored by 
the Board in the context of the standards 
to which the Group is subject and the 
expectations of its stakeholders. This 
monitoring is supported by a dedicated 
Internal Audit function. The Group’s 
financial function, systems and controls 
are also subject to periodic review to 
ensure that they remain robust and fit 
for purpose.

The management of the financial risks 
facing the Group is governed by policies 
reviewed and approved by the Board. 
These policies primarily cover liquidity 
risk, interest rate risk, currency risk and 
credit risk. The primary objective of the 
Group’s policies is to minimise financial 
risk at a reasonable cost. The Group does 
not trade in financial instruments. 

The majority of the Group’s activities are 
conducted in the local currency of the 
country of operation. As a consequence, 
the primary foreign exchange risk arises 
from the fluctuating value of the Group’s 
net investment in different currencies. Our 
strategy is to proportionally grow the US 
as a source of earnings at a faster rate than 
other markets which will lower the foreign 
exchange risk for the Group.

Progress

  No Change

  No Change

  No Change

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

31

Finance Review

A strong performance 
during 2018 increases 
revenue by 8% to 
$1,315.2m

The combination of good underlying growth and acquisition activity 
generated 22% constant currency EPS growth. Net debt at the end 
of the year was $60.8 million.

Revenue
Revenue of $1,315.2 million for the year was 
8% ahead of 2017 (5% on a constant currency 
basis). Ashfield increased revenue by 12%  
and Sharp increased revenue by 3%. Group 
underlying revenue declined by 2%, excluding 
the impact of foreign exchange, acquisitions 
and disposals.

Adjusted Operating Profit
Adjusted operating profit of $147.5 million is 
14% ahead (12% on a constant current basis) 
of 2017. 

Adjusted Net Operating Margin
The adjusted net operating margin for the 
year of 13.1% was an increase on the 12.6% 
margin reported in 2017. The positive margin 
effect of acquisitions and higher revenue 
growth in the higher margin businesses more 
than offset the impact of additional Future Fit 
operating costs. 

Adjusted Profit Before Tax
Net interest costs, pre-exceptional items,  
for the year of $8.7 million are 16% lower than 
2017, which is as a result of the repayment  
of guaranteed senior unsecured notes in 
September 2017. This delivered an adjusted 
profit before tax of $138.8 million which is 
17% ahead of 2017 (15% on a constant 
currency basis). 

Net operating margin

13.1%

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

10.4%

12.2%

12.6%

12.6%

13.1%

2018 Adjusted profit before tax ($’m)

Group PBT +17%

(15% constant currency)

2017

Foreign exchange

Acquisition

Disposals

Underlying

2018

118.9

2.0

12.3

(1.6)

7.2

138.8

32

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
 
Earning per share

+24%

45.94c

(22% constant currency growth)

Dividend per share ($)

+20%

16.00c

 “During 2018, we continued to deliver strong 
growth, with adjusted earnings per share up 24% 
(22% on a constant currency basis). Our two 
divisions, Ashfield and Sharp, both demonstrated 
good growth, supported by the benefit of recent 
acquisitions and investments.”

Nigel Clerkin
Chief Financial Officer

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

33

Finance Review (continued)

Overview of Results
The Group delivered an adjusted profit before tax of $138.8 million in 2018, the details of which are disclosed in the table below.  
This is a 17% increase on 2017 (15% on a constant currency basis).

Continuing operations

Revenue
Net revenue 2

Operating profit
Profit before tax
Diluted earnings per share (EPS) (cent)
Dividend per share (cent) 

IFRS based 
$’m

Adjustments 1 
$’m

1,315.2
1,129.7

5.5
8.4
1.52
16.00

–
–

142.0
130.4
44.42
–

Adjusted 
$’m

1,315.2
1,129.7

147.5
138.8
45.94
16.00

Increase on
 2017 
%

Constant currency 
increase on
 2017 
%

8
10

14
17
24
20

5
6

12
15
22
20

1 

Adjusted operating profit, profit before tax and diluted EPS are stated before the amortisation of acquired intangible assets ($31.0m, pre-tax), transaction costs ($2.4m, pre-tax) 
and exceptional charges (operating charge $108.6m, pre-tax $97.1m and post-tax $85.8m) relating to the disposal and impairment of Aquilant ($90.7m charge),the Group’s 
restructure of internal operating structures ($18.0m charge), deferred contingent consideration adjustments ($11.6m gain), net of tax effect of these items ($1.5m gain) and  
an exceptional credit to deferred tax liabilities ($9.7m). 

2  Net revenue represents gross revenue adjusted for revenue associated with pass-through costs, for which the Group does not earn a margin.

Taxation
The effective taxation rate has decreased from 
22.2% in 2017 to 17.1% in 2018 following the 
enactment of the US Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, 
along with the benefit of a number of other 
gains during the second half of the year.

Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share
Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) is 24% 
ahead (22% on a constant currency basis) of 
2017 at 45.94 $ cent. Underlying EPS 
increased by 11% excluding the benefit of 
acquisitions completed in 2017 and during the 
year and favourable currency movements.

Exceptional Items
The Group incurred an exceptional charge  
of $85.8 million after tax for the year. 

A goodwill impairment charge of $57.6 million 
was recognised in the six month period to 
31 March 2018 in relation to Aquilant, partially 
offset by an exceptional gain of $8.9 million 
relating to the exit of two Aquilant clients in 
the year. A tax charge of $1.0 million was 
incurred in relation to these items. On 
8 August 2018 the Group completed the 
disposal of Aquilant which resulted in a loss  
on disposal of $41.9 million. 

A charge of $18.0 million was incurred in 
relation to restructuring costs. The charge 
primarily relates to redundancy and onerous 
lease costs incurred as part of the restructuring 
of the Group’s internal operating structures.  
A tax credit of $3.6 million was incurred in 
relation to these items. 

Following the enactment of the US Tax Cuts 
and Jobs Act, the Group recognised an 
exceptional tax gain of $9.7 million in the 
income statement arising on the one-off 
remeasurement of certain US tax liabilities. 

Deferred contingent consideration of $11.6 
million in respect of Cambridge BioMarketing, 
MicroMass Communications and Sellxpert 
was released in the year following review  
of expected performance against earn out 
targets. A tax charge of $1.0 million was 
incurred in relation to these items. 

Disposal of Aquilant
On 8 August 2018 the Group completed the 
disposal of Aquilant which resulted in a loss  
on disposal of $41.9 million. The total 
proceeds receivable by the Group is expected 
to be $23.0 million and related costs of 
disposal were $1.7 million. In line with the 
Group’s strategy, proceeds from the 
transaction will be used to fund the continued 
development of the Group’s higher growth and 
higher margin divisions, Ashfield and Sharp.

Aquilant contributed $82.7 million of revenue 
(full year 2017 $96.3 million) and $3.3 million 
of operating profit (full year 2017 $6.4 million) 
to the Group for the year. 

Foreign Exchange 
The Group operates in 26 countries, with its 
primary foreign exchange exposure being the 
translation of local income statements and 
balance sheets into US dollars for Group 
reporting purposes. The re-translation of 
overseas profits to US dollars has increased 
constant currency EPS growth of 22% to a 

reported EPS growth rate of 24%, which is 
primarily due to the strength in Sterling in 
2018 versus 2017.

The average 2018 exchange rates were  
$1: £0.7436 and $1: €0.8403 (2017 $1:£0.7891 
and $1:€0.9047). 

Cash Flow
The table displayed includes cash flow 
information for the years ended 30 September 
2018 and 2017.

Net cash inflow from operating activities
Working capital increased by $50.4 million 
(2017: $19.3 million). The increase in working 
capital was due to the growth in the business, 
the reversal of favourable timing inflows 
during 2017, and temporary cash flow delays 
arising from the implementation of Oracle 
under the Future Fit programme. Other cash 
outflows of $1.1 million relates to transaction 
costs paid of $5.3 million, partially offset by an 
exceptional items inflow of $4.2 million. This 
consisted of a $8.9 million inflow relating to 
Aquilant receipts from agency terminations, 
offset by a $4.6 million outflow relating to the 
Group’s restructuring.

Net cash outflow from investing activities
Net cash outflow from investing activities was 
$76.3 million, compared to $262.9 million in 
2017. This decrease was principally due to 
reduced outflows on acquisitions. During 
2018, $39.6 million was invested in property, 
plant and equipment. This included 
investment in Sharp’s facilities, in particular 
the investments in Sharp Clinical’s sites in the 
US and UK, and its commercial packaging 

34

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report facility in the Netherlands. Computer software 
outflows of $21.0 million included investments 
in Future Fit, which will enable our businesses 
to grow in an efficient manner. The Group 
invested $33.5 million on the acquisition of 
subsidiaries, which represented the initial 
consideration for the acquisitions of Create 
NYC and SmartAnalyst, while additionally 
$5.9 million was paid in deferred contingent 
consideration associated with prior year 
acquisitions. Offsetting these outflows, a net 
cash inflow of $21.0 million was received on 
the disposal of Aquilant. 

Net cash outflow from financing activities 
decreased by $58.3 million to $33.1 million, 
from $91.4 million in 2017, principally due  
to the repayment of guaranteed senior 
unsecured notes in September 2017. During 
2018, dividend payments of $34.7 million were 
made relating to the final 2017 dividend and 
the 2018 interim dividend. 

Balance Sheet
Net debt at the end of the year was $60.8 
million ($180.1 million cash and $240.9 million 
debt). The net debt to annualised EBITDA 
ratio is 0.34 times debt (2017: 0.32 times debt) 
and net interest is covered 22.0 times (2017: 
16.3 times) by annualised EBITDA. Financial 
covenants in our principal debt facilities are 
based on net debt to EBITDA being less than 
3.5 times and EBITDA interest cover being 
greater than three times.

The Group has retained its long-term private 
placement debt as it expects to make 
acquisitions and other capital investments in 
the coming years. At 30 September 2018, the 
Group also had $255.7 million of undrawn 
overdraft and loan facilities. 

Return on Capital Employed (ROCE)
The Group’s ROCE was 12.7%, down from 
12.8% at the end of 2017. Details on how this 
was calculated are on page 170. 

Dividends
The directors are proposing a final dividend  
of 11.75 $ cent per share representing an 
increase of 21% on the 2017 final dividend of 
9.72 $ cent per share. This represents 20% 
growth in the total dividend for the year to 
16.00 $ cent per share. This continues the 
Group’s 30 year history of consistently 
increasing dividends.

Subject to shareholder approval at the 
Company’s AGM, the proposed final dividend 
of 11.75 $ cent per share will be paid on 

Cash flow 

Net cash inflow from operating activities
Net cash outflow from investing activities
Net cash outflow from financing activities

Net change in cash and cash equivalents
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

2018 
$’000

102,516
(76,323)
(33,063)

(6,870)
(500)
187,469

2017 
$’000

107,778
(262,864)
(91,373)

(246,459)
5,199
428,729

Cash and cash equivalents end of year

180,099

187,469

Net cash inflow from operating activities 
The net cash inflow from operating activities was $102.5 million (2017: $107.8 million).

Adjusted EBITDA
Interest paid
Income taxes paid 
Working capital increase
Other cash outflows

Net cash inflow from operating activities

2018 
$’000

181,790
(9,682)
(18,107)
(50,350)
(1,135)

102,516

2017 
$’000

156,886
(10,608)
(14,522)
(19,269)
(4,709)

107,778

4 February 2019 to ordinary shareholders  
on the Company’s register at 5.00 p.m.  
on 11 January 2019. 

Investor Relations
UDG Healthcare’s executive management team 
spend a significant amount of time meeting 
with shareholders and the international 
financial community. We have invested in 
dedicated investor relations resources and are 
focused on increasing the awareness of the 
Company among the investor and 
analyst community. 

The Group maintains continuous engagement 
with its shareholders during the year (apart 
from when the Group is in a close period), 
specifically following the release of our interim 
and preliminary results, and at the time of 
major developments including M&A 
transactions. The Group continues to ensure 
that a broad geographic base of institutional 
investors is reached through participation in 
roadshows, attendance at conferences and 
investor events. During 2018, the UDG 
Healthcare senior management team 
conducted over 220 institutional investor 
one-on-one meetings and participated at 12 
investor conferences, including five in the US. 

Additionally, the Group hosted a successful 
two day Capital Markets event at its US 
facilities in Fort Washington, PA (Ashfield) 
and Allentown, PA (Sharp) in February 2018. 

In addition to various presentations during  
the event, attendees were given tours of the 
facilities and met with the wider Ashfield and 
Sharp senior management teams. The event 
was attended by the Group’s CEO, CFO 
and Chairman.

The number of independent equity analysts 
covering the Group increased to 13 during  
the year (from ten) reflecting the continued 
growing interest in UDG Healthcare from the 
equity markets.

The Board of Directors considers it important 
to understand the views of shareholders and 
receive regular updates on investor perceptions.

Our website www.udghealthcare.com, is the 
primary method of communication for the 
majority of our shareholders. We publish our 
Annual Report, preliminary results and other 
public announcements on our website. In 
addition, details of our conference calls and 
presentations are available through 
our website. 

Our investor relations department provides  
a point of contact for shareholders and full 
contact details are set out in the investor 
relations section of our website. Shareholders 
can also submit an information request 
through the shareholder services section  
of our website.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

35

 
Operational Review
Ashfield

Ashfield

Transforming our service offering, 
improving our market-leading 
positions and delivering 
outstanding results for our clients 

Ashfield is a global leader in healthcare advisory, communication, commercial  
and clinical services for the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Our focus  
is on supporting patients, healthcare professionals and payers at all stages  
of the product life cycle. 

Ashfield Commercial & Clinical  
Net Revenue 

Ashfield Communications  
& Advisory Net Revenue

$448.2m

$287.7m

Canada

US

United Kingdom

Republic of Ireland

France
Switzerland

Sweden

Norway

Finland

Denmark
Netherlands
Belgium
Germany
Austria

Portugal

Italy

Spain

Turkey

Brazil

Argentina

36

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

China

Japan

India

Hong Kong

Australia

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report What we offer

Advisory
Healthcare advisory, strategic consulting, analytics  
and benchmarking audit services.

Communications
Scientific and creative communications, digital and patient-
centred, specialised agencies in behavioural science, rare 
disease, PR and on-demand advertising services.

Commercial & Clinical
Commercialisation and clinical services including sales 
representatives, patient services, contact centres, medical affairs 
and meetings and events. 

Julian Tompkins
President of Ashfield  
Commercial & Clinical

Doug Burcin
President of Ashfield  
Healthcare Communications

Rob Wood
President of Advisory Services 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

37

 
Operational Review
Ashfield (continued)

About Ashfield
Ashfield is an international provider of 
services to the healthcare and pharmaceutical 
industry. As the largest division of UDG 
Healthcare, Ashfield has over 7,300 
employees based in 25 countries. In the  
last year, Ashfield has made good progress 
through strategic acquisitions and organic 
growth by increasing market share and 
consolidating market-leading positions  
in many of its markets. Ashfield operates  
in three broad areas of activity: Advisory, 
Communications and Commercial & Clinical 
services, working with a range of global 
healthcare clients to deliver services across  
50 countries. We provide strategic consulting, 
audit, advisory, healthcare communications, 
field and contact centre sales teams, in-home 
and contract centre nurse educators, medical 
information, pharmacovigilance (drug safety) 
and event management services.

In August 2018, UDG Healthcare announced  
a review of the Ashfield business structure. 
Rob Wood was appointed President of 
Ashfield Advisory, Doug Burcin was appointed 
President of Ashfield Communications and 
Julian Tompkins was appointed President  

of Ashfield Commercial & Clinical. All three 
leaders report directly to UDG Healthcare 
Group CEO, Brendan McAtamney. 

Ashfield Advisory comprises STEM 
Healthcare, Vynamic and our recent 
acquisition SmartAnalyst. Our services now 
include healthcare brand advisory, strategic 
consulting, analytics and commercial 
audit services.

Ashfield Communications is a global 
micro-network which works with clients  
at the centre of science, data and creativity  
to commercialise molecules, markets and 
brands. Our experts support the expanding role 
of medical affairs, brand commercialisation and 
activation from the rarest diseases to the 
blockbuster brands and large disease franchises. 

Ashfield Commercial & Clinical provides 
multi-channel (field-based and contact centre) 
sales and nurse education solutions, focusing 
on educating healthcare professionals on 
prescription products and medical devices 
and educating patients about their disease 
and its treatment options.

Performance Review
Ashfield delivered a robust financial 
performance during the year, driven by the 
benefit of acquisitions and good underlying 
momentum in Communications & Advisory, 
offset by challenges in the Commercial & 
Clinical business. Net revenue was up 17%  
to $735.9 million and operating profit was  
up 21% to $98.4 million.

Ashfield’s underlying net revenue and 
underlying operating profit were broadly flat 
year-on-year, after adjusting for the impact  
of currency translation movements and the 
contribution of acquisitions. As expected, 
Ashfield incurred approximately $3.5 million 
additional operating costs during the year 
related to the Future Fit investments – the 
business generated approximately 5% 
underlying operating profit growth during  
the year before these additional costs. 

Net operating margin increased to 13.4%  
from 12.9% reflecting the continued strong 
momentum from the higher margin 
Communications & Advisory business,  
driven by a combination of underlying  
growth and the benefit of acquisitions. 

Ashfield

Gross revenue
Commercial & Clinical
Communications & Advisory
Total gross revenue

Net revenue 1
Commercial & Clinical
Communications & Advisory
Total net revenue

Operating profit
Commercial & Clinical
Communications & Advisory
Total operating profit

Operating margin
Operating margin (on gross revenue)

Net operating margin (on net revenue)

2018 
$’m

597.5
323.9
921.4

448.2
287.7
735.9

36.3
62.1
98.4

10.7%

13.4%

2017 
$’m

Actual 
Growth

Underlying 
Growth2

(1%)
49%
12%

1%
53%
17%

(6%)
44%
21%

(7%)
8%
(3%)

(6%)
10%
(1%)

(10%)
10%
0%

604.7
216.7
821.4

442.3
187.8
630.1

38.6
43.0
81.6

9.9%

12.9%

1  Net revenue represents gross revenue adjusted for revenue associated with pass-through costs, for which the Group does not earn a margin. There are no pass-through costs in Sharp.
2  Underlying growth adjusts for the impact of currency translation movements and any acquisition or disposal activity. 

38

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Strategic alignment: Improving

Improving lives by 
delivering personalised 
healthcare

By harnessing digital technologies, Ashfield is now leading the 
way in personalised healthcare to help maximise the benefits  
of patient support programmes and prescribed medications. 
We develop tailored patient support programmes with a goal 
of improving outcomes not just for patients, but the entire 
ecosystem of stakeholders in a patients care.

Ashfield has provided patient support programmes for 16 years 
across a range of conditions and diseases. By implementing 
Salesforce’s Health Cloud, the patient relationship platform, we 
have empowered > 1,000 clinical educators globally, improving 
visibility and delivering a more seamless patient experience. 

With Health Cloud, Ashfield is centralising all patient 
information in one place, ensuring that caregivers and 
healthcare providers get a complete view of each patient and 
their unique needs. It is a groundbreaking mobile solution to 
underpin our support programmes and ultimately improve 
people’s lives.

Strategic alignment: Transforming

Transforming a 
traditional service  
to get better results

Ashfield developed and delivered an oncology virtual Medical 
Science Liaison (MSL) programme that increased the reach of 
scientific exchange and gained valuable insights. Our client was 
looking for a comprehensive, scalable and innovative model to 
reach hyper-targeted Healthcare Professionals (HCPs). 

The goal was to supplement the current field-based team of 
MSLs to provide national coverage. Ashfield recruited, trained 
and executed a virtual MSL programme in support of the 
targeted HCPs. The results we achieved include 97% of 
completed calls, 683 insights obtained versus the programme 
target of 100 and 98% of customers agreed to a follow up.  
Our cost-effective approach increased the reach and frequency 
of scientific exchange, while enabling a field MSL team to focus 
on highest priorities.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

39

Operational Review
Ashfield (continued)

Ashfield Communications & Advisory 
accounted for 63% of Ashfield’s operating 
profit in 2018, up from 53% in 2017. Net 
revenue increased by 53%, 10% on an 
underlying basis and operating profit 
increased by 44%, 10% on an underlying 
basis. Underlying operating profit increased 
by 13%, excluding the impact of additional 
Future Fit costs. Growth was driven by a 
combination of good underlying growth and 
the benefit of acquisitions completed in 2017 
and 2018. While the Group expects these 
strong underlying growth dynamics to 
continue in 2019, reported growth will be 
tempered by planned investments, including 
STEM aXcellerate. 

Ashfield Commercial & Clinical experienced  
a challenging year with underlying net 
revenues declining by 6% and underlying 
operating profit declining by 10% (5% decline 
excluding Future Fit costs). The decline was 
driven by a combination of factors including 
the timing of contract activity levels and fewer 
new business development opportunities 
during the second half of the year. As 
previously indicated, we expect these 
challenging conditions to continue in 2019. 
The market continues to evolve with a clear 
shift from the development of primary care 
products towards specialty care. Ashfield’s 
diversified geographic and service mix leaves 
it well placed to benefit from the growth in 
specialty medicines and rise in the demand for 
more sophisticated multi-channel solutions.

The outlook for Ashfield over the medium 
term remains positive, as the business 
diversifies its service offering and adds 
complementary capabilities to meet the 
evolving needs of its client base. 

Ashfield Advisory 
In 2018, Ashfield has continued to make 
strong progress in the Advisory space. In 
order to ensure the growth of the Advisory 
businesses, Rob Wood, founder of STEM 
Healthcare, was appointed as President of  
the Advisory Services business unit. As a 
result of this, STEM Healthcare promoted 
Jason McKenna, who founded STEM 
Healthcare in the US, to CEO.

Both STEM Healthcare and Vynamic have also 
made significant organic growth progress. 
Vynamic used the Ashfield network to expand 
into the UK in their first move outside of the 
US and in Boston, US, they have moved into  
a new office, shared with Cambridge 
BioMarketing. STEM Healthcare celebrated  
its tenth year of benchmark data in July. This 
means that STEM Healthcare offers the most 

40

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

comprehensive industry-wide benchmarks, 
covering 48 countries and giving them the 
widest and deepest market penetration in 
pharmaceutical benchmarking. In 2018, STEM 
Healthcare also embarked upon an expansion 
programme called STEM aXcellerate focused 
on growing its core pharmaceutical customer 
base and in tandem to expand its unique 
model into other adjacent healthcare markets 
which offer significant growth potential.  
The programme will be undertaken on a 
phased basis. 

In July 2018, we announced the acquisition  
of SmartAnalyst, a New York-based strategic 
commercialisation consulting and analytics 
business, focused on the pharmaceutical and 
biotech sector. The company was founded  
in 2001 and has 135 employees based across 
operations in New York, London and 
Gurgaon, India. SmartAnalyst provides 
strategic consulting services to 
pharmaceutical and biotech companies to 
support disease, asset and portfolio-level 
decisions. SmartAnalyst also provides Health 
Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR) 
services, which uses evidence-based data  
and analytics to demonstrate the value of 
products and to support market access and 
reimbursement with payors. HEOR is a 
high-growth area, driven by market dynamics 
such as the increasing complexity of drugs, 
the changing landscape of market access,  
cost and regulatory pressures, and the 
increased scrutiny of real world outcomes.

The acquisition of SmartAnalyst is in line with 
Ashfield’s strategy to expand its Advisory 
service proposition for its healthcare clients. 
SmartAnalyst provides Ashfield with access  
to commercial development decision-makers, 
as well as infrastructure in India. Ashfield will 
provide leverage and opportunities to grow 
SmartAnalyst’s customer base outside the  
US through its global business.

Ashfield Communications 
Following on from the retirement of Viv 
Adshead in February 2018, Ashfield 
Communications was delighted with the 
appointment of Doug Burcin, formally Chief 
Growth Officer at Klick Health and Global 
CEO of Havas Health, as President of  
Ashfield Communications. Overall Ashfield 
Communications had a good year in 2018  
with both organic growth and the benefit  
of acquisitions. 

In 2018, our focus has been on growing our 
capabilities to enable us to work with clients  
in a global capacity across the medical and 
commercialisation continuum and in 

increasing collaboration between agencies  
for functional and subject matter expertise.  
In August 2018, Cambridge BioMarketing 
moved into a new office with Vynamic in 
Boston, US and in September 2018, Ashfield 
Communications opened a new office in the 
centre of Manchester, UK to expand the 
recruitment talent pool. 

Furthermore, in line with this focus, in July,  
we acquired Create NYC to significantly 
strengthen Ashfield Communication’s  
creative offering. Create NYC is an innovative 
New York-based healthcare disruptive 
communications agency, offering the tactical 
execution of sales and marketing materials  
for its international pharmaceutical clients. 
Create NYC’s offering comprises a unique 
model which gives its clients high-impact, 
on-demand flexible marketing support with a 
flat fee structure. This approach complements 
the more traditional agency model.

The acquisition of Create NYC is in line with 
Ashfield’s strategy to expand into areas of 
differentiated but aligned adjacencies to its 
core scientific communication capabilities.  
For Create NYC, Ashfield provides the 
opportunity to diversify its client base and 
expand internationally.

Ashfield Commercial & Clinical 
2018 has been a challenging year for Ashfield 
Commercial & Clinical which is consistent 
with the cyclical nature of this market. We 
remain confident in the market dynamics such 
as the growth in specialty, importance of the 
patient, rise in multi-channel and focus on 
medical affairs. As a result of this, service 
development has been a core focus for us  
in the last year. The Commercial business has 
launched new innovative services and 
enhanced our multi-channel contact centre 
capabilities. The Clinical business has 
continued to see an increase in the number  
of Patient Support Programmes (PSPs) being 
launched on behalf of clients and we have 
rolled out the Salesforce’s Health Cloud –  
an innovative patient relationship platform.

Launched in February 2018, the Ashfield 
Solution is an agile, multi-channel commercial 
engagement model designed for maximum 
impact and to improve return on investment. 
Ashfield already has several top pharma 
companies utilising the Ashfield Solution and 
seeing the results come to life. To see the 
Ashfield Solution in action, refer to the case 
study on page 16. Separately, and in response 
to the ever increasing demand for Medical 
Science Liaisons (MSLs), Ashfield’s new 
virtual MSL offering addresses field capacity 

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report limitations, bringing an innovative, cost-
effective approach to executing scientific 
engagement plans. This innovative model 
gives the field MSL team a strategic partner, 
enabling the field to focus on its 
highest priorities. 

As well as introducing new services, Ashfield 
Commercial is also focused on delivering and 
expanding our fully-integrated contact centre 
solutions. Ashfield now have 12 contact 
centres with over 750 employees, 65 
supervisors covering over 100 client accounts 
and 238 ongoing projects delivered in over  
20 languages. 

With expertise in designing and delivering  
a wide range of patient support programmes, 
Ashfield Clinical has been supporting 
pharmaceutical and healthcare companies  
for over 15 years across a large range of 
therapeutic areas. With the launch of Health 
Cloud, Ashfield is centralising all patient 
information in one place, ensuring that 
caregivers and healthcare providers receive  
a complete view of each patient and their 
unique needs. With five clients already 
utilising the patient relationship platform,  

it will enable care providers collaborate more 
efficiently, better understand their patients 
and build stronger relationships across their 
entire care teams. Ashfield is further 
advancing its offering by using Health Cloud 
for its Patient Support Programmes in the  
US and Europe.

Ashfield Meetings & Events have experienced 
a strong year with its reputation for high-
quality, innovative events resulting in 
continuous growth for the organisation. 

The Outlook for Ashfield 
The current environment that Ashfield is 
operating within is strong, however there are 
some challenges that the organisation faces in 
particular within the Commercial and Clinical 
space. We are confident that the work that has 
taken place during 2018 will strengthen the 
trajectory for 2019 and beyond. 

The focus over the next five years will 
continue to be on organic growth and 
strategic acquisitions to diversify the service 
offering, add complementary capabilities and 
expand the geographical reach to meet the 
evolving needs of our clients. 

Ashfield’s offering continues to shift towards 
more strategic, higher value services with 
Ashfield Communications & Advisory. In 
Ashfield Advisory, our organic growth focus 
will be on growing our core pharmaceutical 
customer base and expanding into other 
adjacent healthcare markets. Whilst Ashfield 
Communications is now positioned to work 
with clients in a global capacity across the 
medical and commercialisation continuum, 
which has set us up for growth in 2019 
and beyond. 

In Ashfield Commercial & Clinical, as the 
market continues to evolve with a clear shift 
from the development of primary care 
products towards specialty care, we will strive 
to further diversify and differentiate including 
new innovative services and using technology 
to enhance our offering. 

Our people remain core to our success at 
Ashfield. We are constantly working to 
nurture and attract the right talent to join  
us and take our organisation forward. 

Strategic alignment: Growing
Growing 
awareness of 
mental health

Pegasus, an Ashfield Healthcare 
Communications agency has produced an 
award-winning campaign encouraging the 
public to play a greater role in preventing 
suicides on the railway. At the heart of the 
campaign, ‘Small Talk Saves Lives’ is a 
filmed public service announcement  
with a twist. It tells the real life story of  
a woman whose life was saved by a 
passer-by who took time to stop and talk. 

Pegasus seeded this emotional video 
through social media, mainstream news, 
outdoor advertising and even on train 
concourses. It has achieved more than five 
million views to date and most importantly, 
there have been stories of those who have 
intervened on platforms… and potentially 
saved more lives. 

Did you know ...
SMALL TALK 
SAVES LIVES?

Watch Sarah’s story 
and fi nd out more ...

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

41

Operational Review
Sharp

Sharp

Driving innovation in our 
operational and technical 
infrastructure to broaden our reach 
and deliver our strategic goals

Sharp delivered solid growth in 2018, balancing the achievement of financial targets 
with the management of significant infrastructural transformations in the division.  
In Europe there was a slower than anticipated on-boarding of new clients. However, the 
successful completion of the construction phases of the building projects in Rhymney 
in the UK and in Heerenveen in the Netherlands are significant milestones in our 
development strategy for the division. Overall our US packaging business saw good 
growth, driven by a particularly strong performance in the second half of the year. 

US Revenue

$267.7m 

EU Revenue

$43.4m

United Kingdom

Republic of Ireland

Netherlands

Belgium

US

42

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  “We are delighted to report that 
both of our clinical facility 
construction projects were 
completed on time and on budget, 
which will give that business the 
platform necessary to achieve 
strategic goals in the years ahead.”

Mike O’Hara
Sharp Managing Director

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

43

What we offer

Clinical
A comprehensive and integrated clinical trial supply 
and management service, from pre-clinical through 
to commercialisation.

Manufacturing
Clinical Manufacturing services including analytical 
services, formulation development, over-
encapsulation and placebo manufacture.

Packaging
Commercial Packaging solutions in multiple formats 
including bottles, blisters, specialty and secondary 
packaging of injectables.

Technology
Technology to support both commercial and clinical 
packaging services including design, serialisation 
solutions and clinical IRT.

Operational Review
Sharp (continued)

About Sharp
Sharp provides clinical trial management  
and contract packaging to the pharmaceutical 
and life science industries. With 1,800 people 
working from eight different locations, 
together we have a shared vision of delivering 
world-class contract services in clinical, 
manufacturing, packaging and technology 
services for our global pharma clients.

Sharp supports clients from the early Phase 1 
stage of drug discovery through to full 
commercial launch and delivery. We have 
earned a reputation for the quality and 
flexibility of our services, built on a solid 
strategy of investment in people, facilities, 
equipment and technology supported by  
a culture of continuous improvement.

Our clinical services business offers a 
complete range of clinical trial supply and 
management solutions from formulation, 
development and analysis, clinical 
manufacturing through to clinical supplies 
packaging, labelling, distribution and clinical 
Interactive Response Technology (IRT). These 
services are supported by expert commercial 
services and project management teams, who 
together have many years of experience in the 
delivery of global clinical trials.

engineering, pre-production, implementation 
and serialisation services. 

as well as with traditional packaging formats 
(bottles, blister packs, etc.). 

Working in long-term partnership with our 
clients and using the very latest technology, 
we collaborate to develop packaging solutions 
that offer the optimal balance between 
regulatory compliance, usability and that  
also ensure production efficiencies.

Having begun serialising drug product in 
2008, Sharp continues to lead the pharma 
packaging industry in the implementation of 
serialised solutions today. By leveraging our 
technical infrastructure, a deeply experienced 
cross-functional team and our ongoing 
collaborations with industry-leading 
technology partners, we are already looking 
to the future potential of a fully serialisation-
enabled supply chain.

Sharp Performance Review
Sharp delivered a strong financial 
performance for the year, driven by improving 
momentum in Sharp US during the second 
half, offset by a lower than anticipated 
performance in Sharp Europe. Revenue was 
up 3% to $311.1 million and operating profit 
was up 11% to $45.8 million. Operating 
margins increased to 14.7% from 13.7%. 

Sharp Europe generated an operating loss  
of $1.1 million during the year due to activity 
levels with some clients being lower than 
previously anticipated. 

Sharp Clinical successfully completed phase 
one of its expansion project in the US by 
relocating to its newly-renovated facility at 
Bethlehem. The second significant investment 
in Sharp Clinical was the construction and fit 
out of our state-of-the-art facility in Wales, 
UK. The site is now fully operational for 
packaging and logistics services with 
analytical, manufacturing and IRT services  
to follow by 2020. These investments will 
allow Sharp Clinical to continue its clinical 
supply chain optimisation strategy by offering 
end-to-end services, formulation to logistics, 
all within one facility in both the US 
and Europe. 

Based on the current activity levels and the 
strong pipeline of new business, Sharp 
remains well positioned to deliver double-digit 
underlying operating profit growth over the 
medium term.

Sharp Packaging US
During 2018, Sharp Packaging saw continued 
growth in demand for the secondary 
packaging of injectables, in line with market 
trends for parenteral and injectable drug 
products. Our Centre of Excellence for 
injectables in Allentown, PA, which offers 
services and capacity to address this specific 

Our contract packaging business supports  
the full range of pharma packaging formats, 
with particular emphasis on blisters, bottles, 
injectables and specialty. Underpinning the 
successful delivery of our packaging services 
is our specialist project management team 
that encompasses packaging design and 

After a challenging start to 2018, Sharp US 
generated substantial underlying operating 
profit during the second half of the year to 
deliver underlying operating profit growth  
of 15% for the full year. This has been driven 
by growth in demand for the secondary 
packaging of biotech injectable products,  

Sharp

Revenue
US
Europe
Total revenue

Operating profit/(loss)
US
Europe

Total operating profit

Operating margin %

2018 
$’m

267.7
43.4
311.1

46.9
(1.1)

45.8

2017 
$’m

Actual 
Growth

Underlying 
Growth 1

254.0
48.1
302.1

40.9
0.4

41.3

5%
(10%)
3%

15%
–

11%

5%
(17%)
1%

15%
–

11%

14.7%

13.7%

1  Underlying growth adjusts for the impact of currency translation movements and any acquisition or disposal activity. 

44

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Strategic alignment: Improving & Transforming

Developing a modern, digital supply chain platform  
to improve visibility and planning

Supply chain improvements and client 
integration programmes have been a key 
focus for IT enterprise planning in 2018. 
Numerous QAD-related process 
improvements have been completed, 
under programme of ‘planning 
modernisation’. 

A multi-disciplined, cross-functional team 
continue to work together to build and 
develop a digital supply chain platform 
that will allow Sharp to exchange ERP data 
with our key strategic partners. This 
initiative is seen as critical by a number  
of our clients, who are actively contributing 
to improve planning and visibility for their 
future packaging projects.

 “Supply chain is at the heart of the service we deliver in 
Sharp and our operational efficiency has a critical 
impact on our clients experience and expectations. 
We will continue to look for opportunities to improve 
and innovate. By providing an integrated digital 
platform to link Sharp and our strategic clients, we can 
offer them better visibility, improved planning and 
ultimately a more rewarding partnership.”

Mike Owens
VP Supply Chain, Sharp US

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

45

Operational Review
Sharp (continued)

segment of our market, experienced increased 
demand in particular for vial labelling, 
multi-component kitting, cold-chain products 
and injectables packaging and assembly. 
Other traditional packaging formats, including 
bottles, blisters and speciality, from our 
facilities in Allentown and Conshohocken, 
continued to deliver solid growth for Sharp 
during 2018. 

2018 also marked the ten-year anniversary  
of the acquisition of the Sharp US business 
– an acquisition that remains to date one of 
the most successful for UDG Healthcare. That 
ten-year period has seen significant growth 
and transformation in Sharp US.

Most recently the Group supported additional 
cold-chain capacity at our Allentown campus, 
with a $1.5 million investment into DEA-
approved caged cold storage to support client 
demand in the injectable device and 
biologics markets.

Early in 2018, after an evaluation of existing 
business development opportunities, Sharp 
US refocused efforts on winning and 
developing clients with whom Sharp could 
build long-term strategic partnerships. This 
client portfolio assessment will remain a focus, 
as we closely align our business development 
activity with emerging market opportunities 
as well as developing improved operational 
integration with our strategic client partners.

Sharp Clinical
During 2018 Sharp Clinical successfully 
completed Phase one of its expansion project 
in the US by relocating the global logistics 
business from the existing site at Phoenixville, 
PA to the newly-renovated facility at 
Bethlehem. This relocation project, which 
involved transitioning over 350 clinical 
protocols and 156 Sharp clients, was delivered 
on time and within budget without a single 
missed shipment to patients or disruption  
to our client operations. 

Phase two of the Bethlehem expansion 
includes the construction of eight new 
primary manufacturing suites, 12 new 
secondary packaging suites, a formulation 
development lab and expansion of the 
analytical lab. This second phase is scheduled 
for completion by the end of Q1 FY2019.

The second significant investment in Sharp 
Clinical during 2018, was the construction and 
fit out of our state-of-the-art manufacturing 
and packaging facility in Wales, UK. The site  
is on target to be fully operational in 
November 2018 for packaging and logistics 
services with analytical, manufacturing and 
IRT to services to follow in 2020.

Both investments will allow Sharp Clinical  
to continue with its clinical supply chain 
optimisation strategy by offering end-to-end 
services, formulation to logistics, all within 
one facility (also know as ‘single-site 
solutions’) in both the US and Europe.  
This coupled with our IRT technology 
platform will assist large and small 
pharmaceutical companies to reduce costs 
and decrease development times that will 
enable their products to reach global markets 
more quickly.

The clinical supplies outsourcing market  
is expected to grow in the 6-7% range over  
the next three to five years. Our two 
aforementioned investments along with our 
innovation in IT will allow us to take advantage 
of the growing market and optimise the 
supply chain for large, virtual and biotech 
pharmaceutical companies around the world.

Sharp Commercial Europe
Sharp Europe has continued with its strategy 
to focus on targeting and developing new 
strategic partnerships with clients in the 
injectables market, which is characterised  
by high-value, low-volume drug product and 
where Sharp now has significant experience 
and expertise. 

During 2018 Sharp Belgium won additional 
new business that will involve the installation 
of new technology and equipment that further 
supports the success of this injectables-
focused market strategy. 

In the Netherlands, Sharp’s European 
management team have overseen the 
restructuring and consolidation of their 
product portfolio as they managed the 
relocation of the existing equipment and  
client projects to other Sharp sites.

The transformation of the Heerenveen site  
to become a dedicated, state-of-the-art 
packaging facility is well underway, with the 

building refurbishment project complete  
on time and within budget. The equipment 
installation and validation is underway and the 
first commercial product from that facility is 
anticipated to be produced in early 2019.

Looking ahead, the implementation of the 
Electronic Batch Record system is scheduled 
in Heerenveen for Q2 FY19 and it is 
anticipated it will be rolled out to the other 
European sites soon afterwards. These 
investments in our infrastructure will put 
Sharp Europe in a very strong position for 
winning new business in 2019 and beyond.

The Outlook for Sharp 
Underlying market trends bode well for 
Sharp, as both the US and EU packaging and 
clinical supplies markets are expected to grow 
at 6% CAGR over the next five years and 
market research indicates that the strategic 
intent of our pharma clients is to 
continue outsourcing. 

We also expect to see increased complexity  
in the market due to the growth of specialty 
and biologics – by 2021 35% of spending is 
expected to be on specialty medicines. 
Mid-sized biologics companies are a fast 
growth area of opportunity for secondary 
packaging and FDA approval of new drugs  
is expected to remain high, following a strong 
year in 2017 for approvals.

Technology and service innovation will also 
remain a strong focus for Sharp, as we make 
further investments in the technical 
infrastructure to allow us to participate fully  
in the digitally connected supply chain. By 
offering a client portal platform, Electronic 
Batch Record and a digitised customer 
experience, Sharp aims to differentiate itself 
to clients in the contract services market. 

Both serialisation and clinical IRT are 
anticipated to drive new business for our 
clinical business. Sharp is now also positioned 
to offer a broader scale and breadth of clinical 
services to larger pharma clients from our US 
and European sites, which will set us up for 
growth in 2019 and beyond. 

46

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Strategic alignment: Transforming

Technology and 
innovation will 
transform Sharp 
Packaging in Europe

The redevelopment of Sharp’s packaging site in Heerenveen 
began in early 2018 and through a shared investment with  
our strategic partner Santen, we are taking the opportunity to 
build a facility that will become a showcase for the industry in 
Europe. We will be implementing EBR and MES to improve our 
performance, reduce operational costs and transform the way 
we interface with our pharma clients.

 “The technical infrastructure we are 
putting in place here in Heerenveen 
represents some of the most 
innovative available in our industry 
today. It is very exciting for me to be  
a part of the team that is realising  
that vision for Sharp.”

Liesbeth Callars
Key Account Project Manager, Sharp Packaging Europe

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

47

Strategic alignment: Growing

Expanding scale and 
services portfolio in 
Clinical services

Sharp Clinical is entering an exciting chapter of growth and 
development in Europe, as it completed the relocation and 
expansion of its new facility in Rhymney, Wales. This new 
facility, which is scheduled for validation and MHRA approval  
in early FY2019, will allow Sharp to offer significantly greater 
capacity, scalability and automation to service the demands  
of larger global pharma companies. 

 “With an additional 1,100m2 in capacity 
and a much broader range of services, 
we now have a really compelling 
proposition for winning new business 
for Sharp Clinical.”

Dave Wilson
Head of Operations, Sharp Clinical Europe

Sustainability

Building a culture that creates  
a sustainable organisation for the 
benefit of our clients, our people 
and our environment

In this section

Environment

Environment
In UDG Healthcare we recognise our responsibility to the environment through the implementation  
of, and adherence to, policies that enable us to carry out our business in a sustainable manner.

Read more on page 50 

Social

People
Our people are at the core  
of the sustainable success of 
UDG Healthcare. Our values 
underpin our culture and we 
strive to live these values every 
day. We are committed to 
listening to our people and 
enacting changes.

Community Involvement
We want to make a difference  
to the communities in which we 
operate. Through local 
fundraising and employee 
involvement, we recognise, 
encourage and demonstrate 
our commitment.

Economic Contribution
We have a responsibility to  
our shareholders who trust us 
and benefit from our success. 
We recognise this important 
relationship and we rely on their 
support and commitment to 
achieve our long-term goals.

Read more on page 51 

Read more on page 56 

Read more on page 57 

Governance

Quality and Compliance
Through our values we build a culture that encourages ethical behaviour, high quality and compliance 
from our people. We operate ethically and have systems in place to ensure this is the case.

Read more on page 58 

48

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
 
 
 
 
Overview
We are committed to building an organisation 
and a culture that is based on our values and 
where our people work in partnership with 
each other and with our clients to build 
success and excellence in everything we do. 

In creating a successful company we want  
to ensure that we behave ethically at all times, 
with integrity and with responsibility. We use 
Economic, Social and Governance (ESG) 
principles to create the framework to  
embed the five core elements of our 
sustainability agenda.

We are also committed to building an 
organisation where people are valued and 
where our employees can work in a safe, 
respectful environment that embraces 
difference and inclusivity. This is combined 
with a knowledge that their views are sought, 
heard and acted upon. 

In summary, people are at the core of our 
business and we are committed to providing 
our own people with the opportunity to build 
careers, enjoy purposeful work and in doing 
so understand that every one of us has a 
responsibility to each other, clients, 
community and our environment. 

 “Having a values based culture is not just 
about being able to show a set of values  
on a page, it is about living those values 
every day.”

Brendan McAtamney
Chief Executive Officer

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

49

Sustainability (continued)

Environment

Environmental Performance 
UDG Healthcare is a growing business with  
an expanding geographical footprint, 
therefore our environmental performance 
remains a key pillar of our organisational 
sustainability. It is important to us to leave  
a world, for future generations, in which we 
have done a responsible job of protecting 
the environment.

Our commitment to environmentally 
responsible operations is apparent 
throughout our organisation. In addition  
to our Environmental KPI programme our 
businesses have been proactive in 
implementing other local initiatives ranging 
from replacement of paper coffee cups with 
reusable cups to providing environmental 
education to our employees. 

We are committed to identifying and 
controlling the environmental impact of our 
activities and services whilst continually 
improving our environmental performance. 
We have adopted a systematic approach to 
setting environmental objectives, to achieving 
these and to demonstrating that they have 
been achieved.

Environmental KPI programme 
In response to our review of environmental 
risk we launched an Environmental KPI 
programme across the organisation. The 
objectives of this are to: improve the quality 
and consistency of environmental data, 
establish business specific environmental 
initiatives, and to deliver savings through 
reduced consumption and resource efficiency. 
The initial focus is to reduce electricity 
consumption intensity per FTE by 10%,  
using 2017 as a base year and reduce  
paper consumption across all sites. The 
environmental team have chosen and shared 
energy efficiency and paper reducing 
initiatives and have been using these to work 
towards our target. We expect this process 
will generate financial savings and facilitate 
case study driven shared learning.

Some environmental initiatives adopted  
by the businesses:

Energy 

Paper

Reduced printing/ 
double sided printing

Follow me printing 

Paper type replacement

Energy use surveys

Energy reduction 
education 

Energy efficient office 
equipment 

Energy audit treasure 
hunt

In addition, this year two sites in the Aquilant 
business became accredited to the new 
ISO14001:2015 standard.

World Environment Day 
Each year we recognise world environment 
day throughout our global business, this year’s 
theme was to reduce plastic use by taking the 
pledge at www.cleanseas.org/take-action.  
A communication was circulated to the global 
business on the day encouraging people to 
take the pledge to reduce plastic use. 

CDP
The CDP is an investor led global disclosure 
system, that enables companies to measure 
and manage their environmental impacts. 
UDG Healthcare have supported and 
participated in this initiative for seven years. 
For CDP 2018, UDG Healthcare disclosed 
emissions and environmental data across the 
Group covering 13 countries. Incremental 
improvements in our data collection process 
increased the transparency and robustness of 
our corporate carbon footprint. The focus for 
2019 will be the capturing and sharing of best 
practice across the business, and 
benchmarking our environmental 
performance against our peers. 

In 2018 the CDP aligned their questionnaires 
with the TCFD recommendations.

-20% 

CO2

3.87 tCO2e per FTE – decrease  
by 20% on 2017

-30%

CO2

.000002912 tCO2e per unit of revenue 
– decrease by 30% on 2017 

1, 2, 3

Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 
emissions reported across the business 

13

Emissions reported in 13 countries 
across the Group 

Tailored

UDG Healthcare separately responded 
to a key clients request for CDP Supply 
Chain Data

50

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
 Social

People
Listening to Our People
In January 2018 we received the results of our 
first global engagement survey which gave 
employees an opportunity to voice how they 
felt about working within our organisation, 
our values and our culture. Valuable feedback 
was received which was shared with all 
employees and action plans are underway to 
address the relevant areas for each business. 
There were some consistent global themes 
that we will be addressing, including creating 
greater awareness of global career 
opportunities, and improving communications.

Developing and Empowering our People
Developing and empowering our leaders  
is paramount for our success and in 2018  
we continued to invest in our people.  
Managing Performance Excellence,  
an extension of the Inspire curriculum,  
was launched across our businesses.

Ashfield Meetings & Events, welcomed  
its largest intake of students to its highly 
successful University Placement Scheme.  
The programme, now in its seventh year, 
provides undergraduates with the opportunity 
to blend their educational theory with 
vocational insight and experiences through  
a year-long work placement at the company.

In September 2018 we established a Diversity 
and Inclusivity Network to progress our 
commitment to the diversity and 
inclusivity agenda. 

Human Rights
In UDG Healthcare plc we are committed  
to acting ethically and with integrity in all our 
business dealings. Our business model is 
intended to fully comply with applicable 
human rights legislation in the countries  
in which we operate. We align our 
sustainability programme with the United 
Nations Sustainable Development Goals  
and we have detailed on page 57 those goals 
which are most relevant to our activities 
within the Group.

UDG Healthcare plc is completely opposed  
to slavery and human trafficking and will not 
knowingly support or conduct business with 
any organisation involved in such activities.  
A copy of our Anti Modern Slavery Policy  
is available on our website at  
www.udghealthcare.com. On an annual basis 
our Quality and Compliance department 
reviews progress of all training on this Policy.

Diversity and Inclusion 
Our commitment to building a respectful 
workplace for all was acknowledged by our 
employees worldwide, in our engagement 
survey. 88% of respondents said our 
organisation provides a working environment 
that treats people with respect regardless of 
age, gender, ability, ethnic origin and sexual 
orientation. We will continue to reinforce this 
agenda in 2019 to ensure we better reflect the 
demographic of our markets and society as 
a whole.

Employee engagement survey results

14 

countries participated

78% 

Response rate

80% 

Sustainable  
engagement score

79%

Percentage who see  
our values lived

Our Strengths
We should continue to build on these:

Our Opportunities
These are our priority areas to focus on:

Living Our Values

Improve Communication

Diversity & Equality

Global Career Opportunities

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

51

 
 
 
 
Sustainability (continued)

 Social (continued)

Strategic alignment: Living Our Values

A focus on culture

Living our values is a consistent theme across the organisation. 
The CEO awards were launched to provide recognition for 
great people doing great work and doing so in a way that 
demonstrates our values. Earlier this year we were delighted  
to welcome the winners of the first annual UDG Healthcare 
CEO awards to Dublin for an evening of recognition and 
celebration with the CEO and his SET. These awards are 
aligned to our five values and we had an excellent response  
to this initiative globally.

And the winners of the first CEO Awards were …

Murray Edmunds  
(Quality Award)

Laura Brown  
(Expertise Award)

Rhonda Levinson  
(Energy Award)

UDG Healthcare head count by 
division

UDG Healthcare head count 
by location

8,700

8,700

  Ashfield 6,971

  Sharp 1,678

  UDG Head Office 51

  Europe 4,332

  Americas 3,527

  Australasia 841

Gender Composition – all employees

Male

Female

39%

61%

Gender Composition – all leaders and managers

Male

Female

44%

56%

Gender Composition – senior leadership

Physicians Online Team (Ingenuity Award)

Male

Female

32%

Age distribution of employees

< 22

2%

23-40

41-51

52+

27%

21%

52

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

68%

50%

Sharp Europe Team (Partnership Award)

The 2018 nomination process has been completed and we are 
once again delighted to see some fantastic examples of our 
values being put into action across the Group.

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Keeping Our People Safe 
At UDG Healthcare our people are important, 
and we are determined to provide a 
workplace where their health and safety is 
integral to everything we do. Our aim is that 
everyone who works for or with us benefits 
from this commitment to health and safety.

We demonstrate this commitment by 
regularly monitoring performance, 
completing due diligence on potential mergers 
and acquisitions and ensuring our health and 
safety programme is appropriate for each of 
our businesses. To progress our programme, 
we continuously engage with our stakeholders 
and identify areas for improvement. 

Incident Management 
Our Incident Management Process allows  
us to monitor, analyse and reduce incidents, 
whilst demonstrating our commitment to 
continuous improvement. 

It allows our organisation to prioritise health 
and safety activities and prevent the 
recurrence of adverse incidents.

The accuracy of our incident reporting across 
our business has consistently improved 
reflecting the success of regular 
communication to the business on the value  
of proactive incident management. 

1.  Total number of incidents
The total number of incidents includes  
near miss reporting, minor injury, lost time 
accidents and fatalities. There have been  
zero fatalities to date. 

2.  Lost Time Accidents (LTAs)
Between 2017 and 2018 there was an increase 
in the number of LTA’s recorded. We believe 
that this can be attributed to continued 
communication to the business on correct 
categorisation of incidents.

LTAs

2018

2017

2016

2015

60

47

38

3.  Total days lost 
Between 2015 and 2017 there was a decrease 
in the number of days lost as a result of LTA’s. 
We believe that this is predominantly linked  
to advances in our incident investigation 
practices. In 2018 we saw an increase in the 
total days lost which may be linked to our 
continued education on how we accurately 
record lost time.

Total days lost

2018

2017

2016

2015

941

601

738

1,131

The data shows a decrease in the number of 
incidents since 2015, demonstrating continued 
success with our global incident management 
programmes. This is a particularly positive 
result as we have undertaken three large-scale 
redevelopment projects at three different 
locations this year.

4.  Incident rate 
Our incident rate is a measurement against 
pharmaceutical industry average of 0.35. 
Positively, we saw a reduction in our incident 
rate for most of this year. 

Total Incident Rate by month in FY2018  
(Per 100 colleagues)

Total number of incidents

2018

2017

2016

2015

293

322

333

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

392

0.41

0.39

0.35

0.34

0.35

0.27

0.25

0.24

0.32

0.29

0.24

0.21

0.45

Oct Nov Dec Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Near miss reporting 
A near miss is an unplanned event that did  
not result in an incident but had the potential 
to do so. For us identifying and investigating 
near misses is a key element to finding and 
controlling risks before employees are injured. 
Near miss incidents are leading indicators 
which help us to be proactive rather than 
reactive in incident management.

The top three causes of incidents during  
2018 were:

CAUSE

76

SLIP/TRIP/FALL

ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT

CONTACT WITH  
MOVING VEHICLE

We actively monitor our causes of incidents 
which enables us to develop and implement 
targeted safety programmes.

Clinical Incident Reporting Tool 
As part of our incident management evolution 
we have developed and adopted a Clinical 
Incident reporting tool for all businesses 
within our portfolio which deliver a 
clinical programme. 

This tool allows us to take steps to minimise 
the risk of such an incident occurring again,  
by recording the incident and reporting it to 
external agencies if necessary whilst enabling 
us to provide our employees with any support 
they may require following an incident.

Lone Working 
We have completed a review of lone worker 
risk across our organisation. Based on this 
review we have adopted a technology solution 
for our nursing employees who engage in lone 
working. This solution is a discreet device 
which allows our nurses to activate an alert to 
emergency services should an incident occur.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

53

Sustainability (continued)

 Social (continued)

Culture 
A positive Environmental, Health and Safety 
(EHS) culture is not achieved by merely 
addressing the work environment, equipment, 
EHS systems and procedures. We also 
consider the interplay between these elements 
and the beliefs, behaviours and attitudes of 
our employees.

Wellbeing of our Employees
Our employees’ wellbeing is important to us. 
We are committed to providing a healthy 
working environment which fosters a culture 
where healthy lifestyles are encouraged,  
and the quality of working lives for our 
employees improved.

Several other successful events have been  
run across all geographies, including step 
challenges, healthy snacks, weekly yoga, 
mindfulness and mental health 
awareness sessions. 

To us good EHS culture generally has three 
main elements: 
•  Clear working practices and rules to 
effectively identify and control risks.

•  A positive attitude towards risk 

management and employee compliance 
with processes at all levels.
•  A willingness to learn from EHS 

performance indicators to achieve 
continual improvement.

We use the Hudson culture ladder* to check 
in at regular intervals to understand where we 
are now, where we want to go and what else 
we need to put in place in order for us to 
get there. 

We are confident that by being culturally 
intelligent across our locations and with our 
advances in EHS management we are moving 
towards the proactive stages of EHS culture 
management. 

Our ultimate aim is to reach the generative 
level and we will continue to work towards 
this goal. 

Our global EHS group invest in the wellbeing 
of our employees by ensuring the health 
aspect of our health and safety responsibilities 
is taken seriously.

This year our annual UDG Healthcare EHS 
week focused on workplace wellbeing. Each 
day information videos were sent to the whole 
organisation on a range of topics from 
nutrition to balancing parenting with work. 
The aim of the week was to offer employees 
across the Group key tips to enhance their 
wellbeing and to encourage them to 
implement these tips and messages into their 
day-to-day working life.

In addition, our people told us how much 
wellbeing mattered to them in our global 
engagement survey and in response to this 
several of our businesses have introduced  
new initiatives to provide more flexibility to 
employees to balance their personal lives with 
working life. Initiatives like these empower 
people to work in a way that helps them 
maintain a healthy and balanced approach  
to working life.

EHS Audit
Our EHS audit programme has been in place 
since 2014. This programme helps us to 
identify weaknesses in our EHS management 
whilst enabling us to suggest improvements. 

Our audits facilitate the provision of advice 
that can have real benefits, such as identifying 
areas of priority and how improvements can 
be achieved. In addition, our audits provide 
assurance to our people that looking after 
their safety and our environmental 
performance in our communities is  
important to us. 

*Hudson Model for Culture

Generative

Proactive

Calculative

Reactive

Pathological

Why waste our  
time on Health  
and Safety?

Increasingly Informed

Increasing Trust

We do something  
after an incident.

We have systems in  
place to manage all  
like risks.

We are always on  
alert for risks that  
may emerge.

Risk management is 
integral to everything  
we do.

54

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report In 2018, we completed four new corporate 
EHS audits and completed audit action 
reviews at 15 sites. Similar to last year, all sites 
scored higher in the health and safety element 
than the environmental element of the audit. 

Furthermore, this year we have undergone 
seven client- led EHS audits. Completion  
of these audits supports and enhances our 
EHS programme and our people whilst 
demonstrating to our clients our commitment 
to the continuous improvement of 
EHS management. 

Travel Emergency Response Process 
Since the introduction of our travel 
emergency response process in 2016,  
we have had to activate this process 12 times 
in response to the increased frequency of 
terrorism attacks and natural disasters.  
To date we have not had any employees 
significantly impacted during these events. 

Driver Safety 
Driving safely remains one of our key areas  
of focus. Our ever-evolving driver safety 
programme is designed to give our drivers 
tools to help prevent adverse driving incidents.

Our driver safety KPI programme introduced 
in 2017 is now well established across our 
organisation allowing us to record and 
monitor our driver safety performance. This 
year we have submitted our first set of KPI 
data to NETS. This submission allows us to 
benchmark our driver safety performance 
against similar industries. 

NETS is a collaborative group of companies 
dedicated to road safety. The organisation 
was founded by the National Highway Traffic 
Safety Administration (NHTSA) as an 
employer-led road safety organisation.

Strategic alignment: Improving

Safety success during facility 
redevelopments

During 2018 and with the support 
of UDG Healthcare, Sharp 
undertook large-scale 
redevelopment projects at three 
different locations; Bethlehem PA, 
Rhymney in Wales and Heereveen 
in the Netherlands. By any 
standards this was a particularly 
challenging year for employee 
health and safety.

Heerenveen interior fit-out

In April 2017, Sharp acquired a 
pharmaceutical packaging facility from 
Daiichi Sankyo in Bethlehem, PA. 

The facility, which will replace the existing 
clinical services site in Phoenixville, has 
been renovated and extended to include 
additional warehousing, primary and 
secondary production rooms as well as 
new office and meeting spaces.

During the redevelopment project there 
was one minor injury and two near misses 
(both contractor-related) associated with 
the project and no environmental issues. 

DEA cage in Sharp Bethlehem

New warehouse in Rhymney

In the UK Sharp undertook the complete 
reconstruction of a brownfield site for its 
European clinical business at Rhymney in 
the South Wales Valley’s. The principal 
contractor began the first phase of the 
rebuild in September 2017. With the new 
facility being nearly four times larger than 
the existing clinical site at Crickhowell, the 
scale of construction was significant and 
the EHS objective of the programme was 
to ensure an efficient, secure and safe 
facility for all Sharp staff and 
its customers. 

From the beginning, stringent systems 
were put in place to ensure all 
construction work was carried out in a 
safe manner with monthly EHS audits 
undertaken throughout the project. There 
were no reportable accidents and only 
two minor accidents recorded for the 
entire construction period.

The construction programme was a 
complete success and the new clinical 
facility was handed over to Sharp’s 
General Manager Ian Morgan on schedule 
in July 2018. 

In the Netherlands Sharp began a third 
redevelopment project to transform an 
existing packaging site into a dedicated 
packaging facility for Santen. 
Construction began in March 2018 and 
was completed in August, ready for 
equipment installation and validation. 

The entire project was completed on time 
and without a single safety incident 
throughout the build – another significant 
safety success in 2018.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

55

Sustainability (continued)

 Social (continued)

Community Involvement
As part of our commitment to living our 
values, UDG Healthcare actively encourages 
employees to support their local communities 
through fundraising and/or donating their 
time to worthy causes. Sometimes the activity 
is led by the organisation but on many 
occasions it is our employees who instigate 
projects and initiatives. 

Since 2012, UDG Healthcare has supported 
various charities across the globe, donating  
in excess of €400,000. 

Our main corporate fundraising event is our 
Annual Golf Day which is held in September 
each year. In Ireland, the three charities of 
choice for 2018 were LauraLynn Foundation, 
Pieta House and The Alzheimer’s Society  
of Ireland. 

Charities of Choice
LauraLynn is Ireland’s only Children’s 
Hospice. The charity cares for children with 
life-limiting conditions and their families 
through their hospice in Dublin and through 
their homecare team. LauraLynn focuses on 
enhancing quality of life, physical comfort and 
wellbeing, as well as the emotional, social and 
spiritual aspects of care. 

Pieta House was established in 2006 to 
provide freely accessible, professional services 
to anyone in suicidal crisis or engaging in 
self-harm. Since 2016, the charity also 
provides suicide bereavement counselling. 
Pieta House has eight centres across Ireland 
and has seen over 30,000 clients to date.

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland works across 
the country in local communities providing 
dementia-specific services and support. The 
charity advocates for the rights and needs of all 
people living with dementia and their carers.

56

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

There are approximately 55,000 people living 
with dementia in Ireland and this number is 
expected to treble in the next 35 years.

Employee Initiatives
For the third consecutive year, UDG 
Healthcare continued its support of employee 
initiatives across the globe by making 
donations out of the UDG Healthcare CSR 
Fund to support our employees in their 
charitable endeavours. Employees submitted 
applications for support to the Fund as they 
themselves completed multiple activities 
including marathons, abseiling, coffee 
mornings, etc. 

UDG Healthcare also chose to give  
more back to the community by encouraging 
employees to donate toys to the children’s toy 
appeal at Christmas, completing the ‘Shoebox 
Appeal’ in aid of children in Africa and Syria 
and by taking part in a food drive aiming to 
donate over 10,000 non-perishable food  
items to families in need.

All initiatives are well received by employees 
who enjoy the opportunity to donate their 
time and energy to charitable causes.

Ashfield Cares
Since the launch in June 2016 the Ashfield 
Cares initiative has gone from strength to 
strength. Through time, skills and fundraising 
activities Ashfield Cares looks to support 
charitable and non-charitable causes in the 
areas of healthcare, education and 
community development. 

Ashfield Cares is led by local committees that 
organise activities for the charities of their 
choice. These committees join together for 
three global campaigns throughout the year. 

Spirit of Giving 2018 
As in previous years, Ashfield came together 
over two weeks in December 2017 to strive 
towards a common mission of donating 
10,000 food items across the globe. We 
surpassed our target of 10,000 items and 
reached an incredible 16,034. Hunger touches 
every community, every nation and every 
region of the world. The contributions that 
were made to the local causes will have helped 
a number of families and individuals.

Ashfield Cares teams throughout the group managed 
collections for numerous food banks around the world.

Employees in Ashfield Clinical & Commercial UK who raised 
funds for local air ambulance charities.

Sharp Community Support
At Sharp we support many local and national 
charities that we believe in, both directly 
through financial donations as well as by 
supporting our employees as they contribute 
their time and skills. 

At the beginning of 2018, Sharp employees 
raised funds for the US Veteran Appeal 
directly supporting Fisher House Foundation 
and the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund.

Sharp US for MuckFest Philadelphia 2018.

Sharp also once again supported the March  
of the Dimes Foundation during 2018. The 
Foundation focuses on research that 
addresses problems such as premature  
births and polio in children.

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
Economic Contribution 
An integral part of the Group’s sustainability  
is the economic value generated from our 
operations. We are cognisant that our 
continued growth and economic performance 
are crucial to our many stakeholders and to 
each of the communities in which we operate. 

In the financial year to 30 September 2018, 
UDG Healthcare added economic value of 

$761.7 million (being revenue of $1,315.2 
million less $553.5 million of input costs paid 
to suppliers). Remuneration to employees of 
$614.2 million, corporate taxes of $23.7 
million, net interest paid to lenders of $8.7 
million and dividends paid to shareholders  
of $34.7 million resulted in 89% of total value 
generated being redistributed to our 
economic community. 

Sharp US employees participate in March of Dimes 2018.

Other charities Sharp supports include:
•  United Way;
•  American Cancer Society; 
•  MacMillan Cancer Support;
•  American Red Cross – hurricane relief.

Total income

$1,315.2m

Dividend to shareholders

$34.7m

Adjusted profit  
after tax

$115.1m

MacMillan coffee morning hosted by Sharp UK 
in September.

Cost of goods  
and services

$553.5m

Value added

$761.7m

Corporate taxes

$23.7m

Interest

$8.7m

Employee costs

$614.2m

Aims for the Future
Our aim is to continue to align our sustainability programme to the relevant UN Sustainable Development Goals. We consider that the following 
seven such goals are the most relevant to our activities within UDG Healthcare:

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

57

Sustainability (continued)

 Governance

Quality and Compliance
Our quality and compliance processes and 
systems underpin governance. We are 
constantly changing and improving these 
processes in line with the continued 
diversification of the Group. The Quality 
Management System launched last year has 
been taken on by all of the new acquisitions 
post the integration period and progress 
against all six workstreams is tracked 
quarterly. The ComplianceCentre was 
relaunched in December with the Code  
of Conduct and in May with the training 
program for GDPR and data protection.

All employees can access the centre and it is 
housed in the company wide learning centre, 
Campus. The strategy for quality and 
compliance is to establish generic controls 
and measures in all of the business units to 
underpin the development of a Quality 
focused compliance culture. This in turn 
allows for continuous improvement and 
streamlining of our business processes using 
the knowledge derived from measuring 
performance and looking at trends. 

Many of the business units in UDG Healthcare 
are regulated by health authorities who audit 
on a regular basis. In addition many of the 
business units have sought ISO9001 
certification as an external validation of their 
Quality Management Systems. All regulator 
audits carried out this year have been 
successful. The internal quality, compliance 
and safety audits are now combined in many 
cases in order to get a complete picture of the 
governance fundamentals of the businesses. 
The frequency and scope of the audits are 
based on a risk review of previous audit 
outcomes and the level of change in 
the business.

This year the Compliance Programme 
included a relaunch of the Anti-bribery and 
Corruption Policy with its accompanying 
training and communication. The training 
consists of reality-based scenarios and it poses 
questions to the trainee to ensure 
understanding of the Policy. 

There are many legal definitions of bribery 
and corruption. The principles we have 
adopted reflect the underlying nature and 
purpose of bribery and corruption which is 

the giving of an advantage to get someone  
to do something they shouldn’t do or are not 
allowed to do. 

The Policy and the accompanying training 
materials are designed to be straightforward 
and direct so that it is clear to all employees 
what they may or may not do as part of 
normal business transactions. The Policy 
applies to everyone in UDG Healthcare 
equally. It is written to ensure that legitimate 
and honest business transactions can be 
distinguished from improper and dishonest 
transactions. This Policy and the 
accompanying training will be tracked as  
part of the quarterly Group compliance 
tracking process. 

Regular reminders and retraining reinforce 
our business ethics and ensure that all 
employees understand our commitment to 
doing the right thing for our organisation,  
our clients and our suppliers. 

In future, auditing by Group Compliance  
will target understanding and adherence  
to the Policy.

Control

Culture

Continuous Improvement

Developing and using effective 
monitoring and control mechanisms for 
process streamlining and performance. 

Developing a compliance led quality 
culture throughout all levels of the 
organisation led from the top.

Using data and risk management 
methodologies to drive improvement 
where it is most critical.

Using data and governance to improve 
decision making.

Actively promoting, driving and role 
modelling a right first time approach. 

Ensuring the right people are in place  
to deliver on the compliance and 
quality mandate.

Clearly articulating accountabilities and 
responsibilities for business deliverables.

Developing expertise in continuous 
improvement methodology and 
implementation.

Innovating and sharing best practice, 
partnering with clients to bring about 
sustainable improvements.

58

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report 5S – the results

Strategic alignment: Improving

Bringing 5S to Sharp Belgium

5S is a disciplined workplace 
organisation tool that aims to 
achieve a safe and orderly workplace 
regardless of whether you work in an 
office, production floor, warehouse 
or anywhere else. Sharp Belgium 
describe how 5S was introduced to 
their business during 2018.

Production Department applying 
Lean Principles: 5S and Visual 
Management
The organisation of the workspace had  
less priority and was sometimes left to 
chance while improvement initiatives did 
not last because of a lack of structure. 
Generally, it was perceived as only 
intermittently important.

The project goal was to organise 
workspaces around the needs of operators 
according to the 5S principle and improve 
the engagement and communication. By 
starting a workgroup with operators on a 
weekly basis and by actively consulting the 
entire production department on a monthly 
basis, an optimal result was achieved. 
 The status of each improvement action  
is visualised on the Plan-Do-Check-Act 
board in the canteen.

•  Reduce frustration and thus improve 

performance.
Involvement of employees  
(for improvement proposals).
Involvement of management.
Improve customer satisfaction.

• 

• 
• 

The ‘good vibe’ is already clearly visible  
and the methodology will be considered  
as standard in setting up new workspaces.

Project deliverables
•  Prevent mistakes.
•  Reduce search times.
•  Minimize tools and supplies.
•  Reduce space requirements.
• 
•  Visualisation of processes.

Improve safety.

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UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

59

 
 
Board of Directors

Peter  
Gray
Chairman (64)

Brendan 
McAtamney
Chief Executive  
Officer (56) 

Nigel  
Clerkin
Chief Financial  
Officer (45)

Chris  
Brinsmead CBE 
Senior Independent 
Director (59)

Linda  
Wilding
Non-Executive  
Director (59) 

Peter Gray is Chairman  
and non-executive director 
of UDG Healthcare plc. 
Peter formerly held senior 
executive positions in a 
number of Irish public 
companies, the most recent 
being that of Vice Chairman 
and Chief Executive of 
ICON plc, the Irish based 
multinational 
pharmaceutical 
development services 
company. 

Brendan McAtamney was 
appointed Group Chief 
Executive Officer on 
2 February 2016, having 
previously served as the 
Group’s Chief Operating 
Officer since 1 September 
2013. Before joining UDG 
Healthcare, Brendan held 
various senior management 
positions with Abbott, 
latterly as Vice President 
Commercial and Corporate 
Officer within the 
Established 
Pharmaceuticals division. 

Nigel Clerkin joined UDG 
Healthcare plc as Chief 
Financial Officer on 1 May 
2018. Prior to this, Nigel 
held the position of CFO 
with ConvaTec Group plc 
where he worked for three 
years. Before this, he 
worked with Elan 
Corporation plc both in the 
US and Europe, holding the 
position of Executive Vice 
President and CFO. Nigel 
started his career at KPMG 
and is a fellow of the 
Institute of Chartered 
Accountants of Ireland.

Chris Brinsmead CBE  
was formerly Chairman  
of AstraZeneca 
Pharmaceuticals UK, 
President of AstraZeneca 
UK and Ireland and 
President of the Association 
of the British 
Pharmaceutical Industry 
(ABPI). Chris succeeded 
Philip Toomey as Senior 
Independent Director  
on 1 July 2017.

Linda Wilding’s career 
includes 12 years at 
Mercury Asset 
Management where she 
held the position of 
Managing Director in the 
Private Equity division. 
Prior to this, Linda qualified 
as a chartered accountant 
while working with  
Ernst & Young. 

Peter was appointed 
Chairman of the Board on 
7 February 2012 having 
served as a non-executive 
director since 
28 September 2004.

Brendan was appointed  
to the Board of UDG 
Healthcare as an executive 
director on 16 December 
2013.

Nigel was appointed to the 
Board of UDG Healthcare 
as an executive director on 
15 May 2018.

Chris was appointed to the 
Board of UDG Healthcare 
as a non-executive director 
on 12 April 2010.

Linda was appointed to the 
Board of UDG Healthcare 
as a non-executive director 
on 16 December 2013.

Not applicable

No

No

Yes

Yes

Peter is currently a 
non-executive director of 
Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc 
and a director of two 
venture capital backed 
private companies.

Brendan is currently a 
non-executive director  
of Scapa Group plc.

Not applicable.

Linda is currently a 
non-executive director of 
Electra Private Equity plc 
and Skagen Conscious 
Capital Limited.

Chris is currently a 
non-executive director of 
the Wesleyan Assurance 
Society and Collagen 
Solutions plc. Chris will join 
Consort Medical plc as a 
non-executive director in 
February 2019, and will 
become Chairman in  
April 2019.

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60

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Committee Membership Key

  Audit Committee

  Nominations & Governance Committee

  Risk, Investment & Financing Committee

  Remuneration Committee

  Indicates Committee Chair

Myles  
Lee
Non-Executive 
Director (65) 

Philip  
Toomey
Non-Executive 
Director (65) 

Lisa  
Ricciardi
Non-Executive 
Director (58) 

Nancy  
Miller-Rich
Non-Executive 
Director (59) 

Chris  
Corbin
Non-Executive 
Director (63) 

Erik van 
Snippenberg
Non-Executive  
Director (54) 

Myles was Group Chief 
Executive of CRH plc,  
a FTSE 100 and 
Fortune 500 company, 
prior to retiring in 
December 2013. With 
more than 30 years’ 
experience at senior 
financial and 
managerial level, Myles 
has extensive global 
experience in 
management, M&A 
and finance. He is a 
qualified civil engineer 
and a Fellow of the 
Institute of Chartered 
Accountants in Ireland.

Philip was formerly 
Global Chief Operating 
Officer for the financial 
services industry 
practice of Accenture. 
Philip has wide ranging 
international consulting 
experience and was a 
member of the 
Accenture Global 
Leadership Council. 
Philip held the position 
of Senior Independent 
Director of UDG 
Healthcare plc from 
14 June 2013 until 
30 June 2017. 

Lisa Ricciardi is currently 
the Chief Executive 
Officer of Suono Bio Inc. 
Prior to this, Lisa was 
Senior Vice President of 
Foundation Medicine, 
Inc. and formally Senior 
Vice President of US and 
International Business 
Development at Medco 
Health Solutions. Lisa 
also held multiple senior 
roles in Pfizer, first in 
operations then leading 
business development 
for over a decade.

Nancy Miller-Rich was 
formerly Senior 
Vice-President, Business 
Development & 
Licensing, Strategy and 
Commercial Support for 
Global Human Health at 
MSD, known as Merck in 
the US and Canada, until 
her retirement in 
September 2017. With 
more than 35 years’ 
experience in the 
healthcare industry, 
Nancy’s background 
includes roles in sales, 
marketing and business 
development for MSD, 
Schering-Plough, Sandoz 
(now Novartis) and 
Sterling Drug.

Chris Corbin retired as 
executive Chairman of 
the Ashfield division in 
July 2018 but has 
remained on the board 
in a non-executive 
director capacity. Chris 
founded Ashfield 
Healthcare Limited. 
Prior to this he held sales 
management positions 
with Parke Davis, Fisons, 
Astra and May & Baker. 
Chris was formerly 
Patron for SETPOINT 
Leicestershire, Chairman 
of Leicestershire 
Business Awards and a 
member of Derbyshire 
Magistrates Bench. 

Erik van Snippenberg 
spent almost 30 years 
with GlaxoSmithKline 
(GSK). More recently, 
Erik held the position  
of Senior Vice President 
and Area Head for 
Europe and Canada 
and was a member  
of GSK’s Global 
Pharmaceutical 
Management Team. 
Prior to this, Erik held  
a number of senior 
executive roles such as 
Senior Vice-President 
and Director of UK and 
Ireland.

Myles was appointed  
to the Board of UDG 
Healthcare as a 
non-executive director 
on 1 April 2017.

Philip was appointed  
to the Board of UDG 
Healthcare as a 
non-executive director 
on 27 February 2008. 

Lisa was appointed  
to the Board of UDG 
Healthcare as a 
non-executive director 
on 14 June 2013.

Nancy was appointed  
to the Board of UDG 
Healthcare as a 
non-executive director 
on 20 June 2016.

Chris was appointed  
to the Board of UDG 
Healthcare as an 
executive director on 
20 June 2003.

Erik was appointed  
a non-executive 
director of UDG 
Healthcare on 2 July 
2018.

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Myles is currently a 
non-executive director 
of both Ingersoll-Rand 
Inc. and Babcock 
International  
Group plc.

Philip is currently 
Chairman of Kerry 
Group plc.

Lisa is currently Chief 
Executive Officer of 
Suono Bio Inc. and a 
Member of the Advisory 
Council for Humania 
Capital (DIFC) Limited.

Nancy is an adviser  
with the Gerson 
Lehrman Group,  
a director of Intercept 
Pharmaceuticals Inc and 
Executive Chairman of 
Altum Pharma.

Chris is a director of a 
number of privately held 
companies.

Erik is currently a 
non-executive director 
of Eurovite Group.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

61

 
 
 
 
Chairman’s Introduction  
to Corporate Governance

 “Board succession planning 
continues while we prepare to 
adopt the latest corporate 
governance guidance.” 

Peter Gray
Chairman

62

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Dear Shareholder,
I am pleased to report that for the year ended 30 September 
2018, UDG Healthcare is again fully compliant with the 
requirements of the UK Corporate Governance Code.  
We have set out on the following pages the important  
details of our work during the year.

As previously announced, Gerard Van Odijk stepped down  
at our 2018 AGM, and we were delighted to welcome Erik van 
Snippenberg, another Dutch national and retired 
pharmaceutical industry executive, to the Board in June. 
Similarly, Alan Ralph retired as CFO and as a director during  
the year and Nigel Clerkin was appointed to replace him. As also 
previously noted, Philip Toomey has served on the Board for 
over nine years and will step down at our upcoming AGM, while 
Chris Brinsmead will have served nine years on the Board in 
April 2019. Chris Corbin has served on the Board since 2003, 
and I myself have served on the Board since 2004, and as 
Chairman since 2012. Thus, succession planning is important.

The Board currently comprises 11 members; myself, two 
executives and eight other non-executives, three of whom  
are female. Four board members are resident in Ireland  
(two executives and two non-executives), four are resident  
in the UK, two are resident in the US and one is resident in 
mainland Europe, while eight have pharmaceutical company 
and/or pharma services experience, and three come from 
other industries. To ensure our Committees are appropriately 
staffed and have adequate diversity in gender, geography 
and background, we believe a Board of between nine and  
11 individuals is ideal. We therefore conducted two further 
searches during 2018, one by PwC and one by Korn Ferry. 
We expect to make at least one new appointment in the 
coming months to replace Philip Toomey, to plan for Chris 
Brinsmead’s retirement in 2020 and to broaden the pool  
of candidates for my succession, which will need to be 
considered in due course and in the light of the new 2018  
UK Corporate Governance Code, which comes into effect  
for the Group from 1 October 2019.

During 2018 we engaged Independent Audit, an external 
independent consultant that we have used previously, to 
review the Risk, Investment and Finance Committee. Some 
good recommendations materialised including that there 
could be some improvements made to the risk oversight 
process and greater clarity on the remit of the Committee. 
The Board itself again conducted a self-evaluation in 2018, 
using an online questionnaire mediated by the Company 
Secretary, which raised no significant or new issues. An 
independent external review will be carried out in 2019. 

We remain committed to the highest standards of corporate 
governance. As I said last year, the essence of good 
governance is a state-of-mind, not a set of rules. We strive  
to ensure that we focus on the important issues for the 
business and its stakeholders, using good sense, 
transparency, openness, and honesty.

Peter Gray
Chairman

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Corporate Governance

UDG Healthcare Governance Framework

Chairman – Peter Gray

Board of Directors

Chief Executive – 
Brendan McAtamney

Audit  
Committee 

Chair 
Myles Lee

Remuneration 
Committee

Nominations & 
Governance Committee

Risk, Investment & 
Financing Committee

Senior  
Executive Team

Chair 
Linda Wilding

Chair 
Peter Gray

Chair 
Chris Brinsmead

Committee Report 
on pages 73 to 76

Committee Report 
on pages 79 to 91

Committee Report 
on pages 70 to 72

Committee Report 
on pages 77 to 78

Risk & Viability  
sub-Committee

Quality & Compliance 
sub-Committee 

The roles of Chairman and Chief Executive are 
separate with a clear division of responsibility 
between them. The Chairman is responsible 
for the leadership and governance of the 
Board as a whole, and the Chief Executive  
for the management of the Group and the 
successful implementation of Board strategy. 
The Board has delegated some of its 
responsibilities to Board Committees,  
details of which are set out overleaf.

Leadership

Board
The Board, led by the Chairman, sets the 
Group’s strategic direction and is responsible 
to UDG Healthcare’s shareholders for the 
leadership, oversight and long-term success  
of the Group. The Board also has ultimate 
responsibility for corporate governance, 
which it discharges either directly, or through 
its Committees and structures as further 
described in this report. The Board has, in 
particular, reserved certain items for its review 
including the approval of:

•  Group strategic plans; 
•  Financial statements and budgets; 
•  Significant acquisitions and disposals; 
•  Significant capital expenditure; 
•  Dividends; and
•  Board appointments. 

Compliance with the  
UK Corporate 
Governance Code

The 2016 UK Corporate Governance 
Code (the ‘Code’) applies to 
companies with a listing on the 
London Stock Exchange and sets out 
key principles and specific provisions 
which establish standards of good 
governance practice in relation to 
leadership, effectiveness, 
accountability, remuneration and 
relations with shareholders. The 
Board considers that UDG Healthcare 
has continued to comply with the 
provisions set out in the Code 
throughout the year to 
30 September 2018. 

Copies of the Code can be found on 
the Financial Reporting Council’s 
website (www.frc.org.uk). This 
Corporate Governance Report sets 
out details of how the Company has 
applied the key principles of the Code.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

63

 
 
 
Corporate Governance (continued)

Board Committees
The Board has established four Committees 
to assist in the execution of its responsibilities. 
An overview of these Committees is provided 
in the Governance Framework diagram on 
page 63 and further details are also included 
in each Committee report. 

Each Board Committee has specific terms  
of reference under which authority is delegated 
to it by the Board. These terms of reference are 
reviewed annually and are available on the 
Group’s website. The Chair of each Committee 
reports to the Board regularly on its activities, 
attends the AGM and is available to answer 
questions from shareholders. 

The current membership of each Committee, 
details of attendance and each member’s 
tenure are set out in each individual 
Committee report.

Meetings
The Board met nine times during the year. 
Details of directors’ attendance at these 
meetings are set out below. In the event that  
a director is unavailable to attend a Board 
meeting, he or she can communicate their 
views on any items to be raised at the meeting 
through the Chairman.

Roles and Responsibilities

Directors

Chris Brinsmead

Chris Corbin 

Nigel Clerkin 1

Peter Gray

Myles Lee 

Brendan McAtamney

Nancy Miller-Rich

Gerard van Odijk 2

Erik van Snippenberg 3

Alan Ralph 4

Lisa Ricciardi

Philip Toomey

Linda Wilding

Joined the Board on 15 May 2018.

1 
2  Stepped down from the Board on 30 January 2018.
3 
4  Retired from the Board on 15 May 2018.

Joined the Board on 2 July 2018.

Chairman

Chief Executive

• 

The role of the Chief Executive is to 
maintain a close working relationship with 
the Chairman, shareholders, potential 
shareholders and major external bodies  
to promote the culture and values of the 
Group. The Chief Executive is responsible 
for and accountable to the Board for:
the management and operation  
• 
of the Group;
the development of strategic proposals 
and annual plans for recommendation  
to the Board;
the resourcing of the Group to achieve 
its strategic goals, including 
development of the required 
organisational structure, process  
and systems; and
the implementation through the SET  
of the Group’s strategy and plans as 
agreed by the Board.

• 

• 

The Chairman leads the Board, ensuring 
its effectiveness by: 
•  providing a sounding board for the 

Chief Executive;

•  setting the agenda, style and tone  

of Board meetings;

•  promoting a culture of openness and 

debate ensuring constructive relations 
between executive and non-executive 
directors;

•  demonstrating ethical leadership and 
promoting the highest standards of 
integrity throughout the Group;
•  ensuring that directors receive 

accurate, relevant, timely and clear 
information; 

•  ensuring the effective operation, 
leadership and governance of the 
Board; and

•  ensuring effective communication 

with shareholders.

64

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Number of 
meetings held 
during the year 
when the director 
was a member

Number 
of meetings 
attended

9

9

5

9

9

9

9

3

3

5

9

9

9

9

9

5

9

9

9

9

3

3

5

9

9

9

Non-Executive  
Directors

The role of the non-executive  
directors is to:
•  constructively challenge and debate 

management proposals;

•  bring external perspectives and insight 
to the deliberations of the Board and its 
Committees;

•  examine and review management 
performance in meeting agreed 
objectives and targets; 

•  assess risk and the integrity of financial 

information and controls; 

•  determine the appropriate levels of 

• 

remuneration of executive directors and 
ensure appropriate succession plans are 
in place; and
input their knowledge and experience  
in respect of any challenges facing  
the Group, and in particular, to the 
development of strategy and  
strategic plans.

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Effectiveness
Board Composition 
We believe that the Board’s composition gives 
us the necessary balance of diversity, skills 
experience, independence and knowledge  
to ensure we continue to run the business 
effectively and deliver sustainable growth. 

Directors’ Appointments, Induction  
and Development
Non-executive directors are engaged under 
the terms of a Letter of Appointment, a copy 
of which is available on request from the 
Company Secretary. For details of executive 
directors’ service contracts and termination 
arrangements, please refer to our 
Remuneration Policy on our website.

As both Nigel Clerkin and Erik van 
Snippenberg were appointed during the year, 
they will offer themselves for election at the 
AGM on 29 January 2019. All other Directors 
are required to seek re-election on an annual 
basis unless they are retiring from the Board. 
Details of the Directors’ length of service are 
set out on page 71.

On appointment, directors receive a formal 
induction and are given briefing materials 
tailored to their individual requirements, in 
each case, to facilitate their understanding of 
the Group and its operations. New directors 
meet with Board members and the SET as 
part of the induction process. Visits to the 
Group’s main locations are scheduled to 
provide the director with an opportunity  
to meet divisional management and to get 
further insight into the businesses. During  
the year, the Board visited Cambridge 
BioMarketing and Vynamic’s offices in Boston 
which provided an excellent opportunity for 
the Board to meet with senior managers from 
the Ashfield Advisory and Ashfield Healthcare 
Communications businesses.

Non-executive directors also receive 
additional training and presentations from 
across the businesses to update their 
knowledge and develop their understanding 
of the Group. During the year, the Board 
received refresher training on the EU Market 
Abuse Regulation, changes to the UK 
Corporate Governance Code and data 
protection. In addition to this, members of  
the Board Committees also receive regular 
updates on technical developments at 
scheduled Committee meetings.

Company Secretary

Senior Independent  
Director (SID)

The Company Secretary assists the 
Chairman in ensuring the effective 
operation of the Board, is a member  
of the Group’s SET and has the following 
responsibilities:
• 

to ensure good information flows 
between the Board and its Committees, 
senior management and non-executive 
directors;
to ensure that Board procedures are 
followed;
to facilitate director induction and assist 
with professional development; and
to advise the Board on corporate 
governance obligations and 
developments in best practice.

• 

• 

• 

The SID’s role is to:
•  provide a sounding board for the 

Chairman;

•  conduct an annual review of the 
performance of the Chairman;

•  make himself available to shareholders 
who have concerns that cannot be 
addressed through the Chairman, Chief 
Executive or Chief Financial Officer; and
•  be available to act as an intermediary for 

directors, if necessary.

Independence
At least half the Board, excluding the 
Chairman, is comprised of independent 
non-executive directors. All of the non-
executive directors are considered to be 
independent, with the exception of the 
Chairman and Chris Corbin who was 
appointed a non-executive director of the 
Board in July this year, following his retirement 
as Executive Chairman of Ashfield.

Changes to the Board

During the year to 30 September 2018 
and since the year end, the following 
changes to the Board occurred:

Gerard van Odijk stepped down from 
the Board following the 2017 AGM. 

Alan Ralph retired as Chief Financial 
Officer on 1 May and stepped down 
from the Board on 15 May 2018 but 
remained with the Company until 
November 2018. 

Nigel Clerkin joined the Group as Chief 
Financial Officer on 1 May 2018 and 
was subsequently appointed an 
executive director of the Board on 
15 May 2018. 

Erik van Snippenberg joined the Board 
as a non-executive director and 
member of the Audit Committee with 
effect from 2 July 2018. 

Chris Corbin retired as Executive 
Chairman of Ashfield on 2 July but 
remained on the Board in a non-
executive director capacity from 
that date. 

As previously announced, Philip 
Toomey will step down from the Board 
at the 2019 AGM. 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

65

Corporate Governance (continued)

Time Commitment of the  
Non-executive Directors
Non-executive directors are required to set 
aside sufficient time to prepare for meetings, 
and to regularly refresh and update their  
skills and knowledge. Each director’s other 
significant commitments are disclosed to the 
Board at the time of their appointment and 
they are required to notify the Board of any 
subsequent changes. The Chairman has 
reviewed the availability of the non-executive 
directors and considers that each of them  
is able to, and in practice does, devote the 
necessary amount of time to the 
Group’s business. 

Board composition

1

2

8

  Chairman 
  Executive directors
  Non-executive directors

Years of service

3

1

3

  < 1 year
  1-3 years
  3-6 years
  6-9 years
  > 9 years

2

2

66

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

2017 Board Evaluation – progress update
The 2017 Board Evaluation resulted in a number of recommendations and below is a summary 
of the progress made in addressing the issues raised:

Recommendations

Actions taken/progress

Group strategy sessions – provide scene- 
setting and background information in briefing 
materials, allowing more focus on future 
strategic planning during the sessions.

Increasing governance – that the Group take 
steps to provide more training to the directors 
on certain identified areas of interest given 
increased levels of governance regulation.

Communication – that the Group continue  
to regularly review means of communication 
with the Board to ensure that these remain 
up-to-date, appropriate and effective.

2018 Board Evaluation
For this year’s Board evaluation, a 
questionnaire was circulated to the directors 
in August on the following aspects of Board 
effectiveness:
•  Board responsibilities and oversight;
•  Board composition and meeting dynamics;
•  Board information, including 

improvements during the year;
•  Board support, administration and 

logistics;

•  Board strategy day
•  Use of video technology for some meetings
•  Board Committees; 
•  The Board’s relationship with 

• 

management; and
the Board’s satisfaction with the progress 
made in responding to the 
recommendations of the previous year’s 
evaluation.

The output from this review was presented  
to the Board at its September meeting and  
it indicated that, consistent with the previous 
year’s findings, the Board and Committees 
continue to operate effectively and no 
significant issues of concern were raised.  
The agreed actions from the 2018 review  
are summarised below:

1.  Training on the changes to the UK 

Corporate Governance Code and its 
impact on the Board and the wider Group; 
and

2.  Board focus on ensuring that capital 
expenditure and M&A opportunities 
continue to align with the Group’s strategy.

The recommended approach is being adopted 
resulting in greater focus on strategic planning.

Training sessions on a number of topics were 
arranged during the year, some of which 
addressed specifically the areas of governance 
particularly where there were impending 
changes in the landscape.

Introduced new video conferencing software  
to enable easier communications with directors 
in between face-to-face meetings.

The Company Secretary in conjunction with 
the Chairman of the Board will follow up on 
these action items and work to address them 
throughout FY 2019. 

The performance of individual directors was 
primarily assessed through discussions held 
by the Chairman with directors on an 
individual basis. During May 2018, the 
performance assessment of the Chairman was 
led by the SID and reviewed by the Board in 
the absence of the Chairman. Feedback was 
communicated by the SID to the Chairman 
following the review.

The Board will continue to review its 
performance on an annual basis. 

Board Policy on Diversity
The Board believes that diversity is an 
essential foundation for building 
long-term sustainability in business and it 
introduces different perspectives into the 
Board debate. Whilst it is the Board’s 
policy to ensure the best candidate for 
the position is selected, we recognise the 
importance of diversity in all forms 
(including age, gender, ethnicity, 
educational and progressional 
backgrounds), and we confirm that 
diversity will continue to be taken into 
account when considering all new 
appointments to the Board. 

The results of our Board Policy on 
Diversity is set out on pages 60 and 61 
which details our directors’ gender, age, 
and professional background.

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Accountability
The Board is committed to providing a fair, 
balanced and understandable assessment of 
the Company’s position and prospects. 

Responsibility for reviewing the Group’s 
internal financial control and financial risk 
management systems and monitoring the 
integrity of the Group’s financial statements 
has been delegated by the Board to the Audit 
Committee. Details of how these responsibilities 
were discharged are set out in the Audit 
Committee Report on pages 73 to 76. 

Responsibility for reviewing the Group’s risk 
management and risk evaluation procedures 
has been delegated by the Board to the Risk, 
Investment & Financing Committee. Details  
of how these responsibilities were discharged 
are set out in the Risk, Investment & Financing 
Committee Report on pages 77 to 78. 

The Quality & Compliance Committee 
oversees the Group’s performance in Health 
and Safety, Quality and Compliance, and 
ensures that a culture of continuous 
improvement is encouraged and measured 
throughout the Group.

The Board receives regular updates from the 
Chair of each Committee.

Remuneration
Consistent with past practice, the Board has 
adopted remuneration policies that are 
considered appropriate to promote the 
long-term success and viability of the Group 

Board gender diversity

27%

73%

  Female directors
  Male directors

whilst ensuring that the performance related 
elements are both stretching and rigorously 
applied. The current Directors’ Remuneration 
Policy Report was approved by shareholders 
at the 2017 AGM with the remuneration policy 
to be put forward to shareholders again 
in 2020. 

The Group again presents the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report for FY2018 in 
accordance with the requirements of the UK 
Companies Act 2006 and the Large and 
Medium-sized Companies and Groups 
(Accounts and Reports) (Amendment) 
Regulations 2013 (the ‘Regulations’).  
Details of directors’ remuneration and share 
ownership, as required by the Regulations, 
are set out in the Directors’ Remuneration 
Report on pages 79 to 91. 

The Company’s current share plans expire  
in 2020. We have reviewed these share plans 
to reflect many factors, including current 
corporate governance guidelines, established 
best practices and also to provide the 
Company with sufficient flexibility to compete 
effectively for talent now and in the future. 
These share plans will be put forward for 
approval by shareholders at the 2019 AGM. 

Relations with Shareholders
Shareholder Engagement
The Board recognises the importance of 
regular dialogue with shareholders and 
accordingly, the Group and its SET maintains 
an ongoing investor relations programme. 
While the Chairman takes overall 
responsibility for ensuring that the views of 
our shareholders are communicated to the 
Board and that all directors are made aware 
of major shareholders’ issues and concerns, 
contact with major shareholders is principally 
maintained by the Chief Executive, the Chief 
Financial Officer and the Group Head of 
Investor Relations. Our Group website also 
contains information on the business of the 
company, corporate governance, all 
regulatory announcements, key dates in the 
financial calendar and other important 
shareholder information.

A programme of meetings with institutional 
shareholders, fund managers and analysts 
takes place each year. There is regular 
dialogue with institutional shareholders, as 
well as general presentations at the time of the 
release of the annual and interim results and 
during major developments including 
M&A transactions. 

In 2018, the UDG Healthcare senior 
management team conducted over 220 
institutional investor one-on-one 
meetings and participated in 12 investor 
conferences, including five in the US. The 
Group also hosted a successful two day 
Capital Markets event at its US facilities in 
Fort Washington, PA (Ashfield) and 
Allentown, PA (Sharp) in February 2018. 
In addition to various presentations 
during the event, attendees were given 
tours of the facilities and met with the 
wider Ashfield and Sharp senior 
management teams. The event was 
attended by the Group’s Chief Executive, 
Chief Financial Officer and Chairman.

Notwithstanding our investor relations 
programme throughout the year, the key 
means of communicating with the company’s 
shareholders is through the AGM. The 
company’s AGM is an opportunity for the 
Board to meet with shareholders, hear their 
views and answer their questions about the 
Group and its business. The Notice of AGM, 
the Form of Proxy and the Annual Report are 
issued to shareholders at least 20 working 
days before the meeting. At the meeting, 
resolutions are voted on by a show of hands of 
those shareholders attending, in person or by 
proxy. If validly requested, resolutions can be 
voted by way of a poll. Details of proxy votes 
received are also made available on the 
company’s website following the meeting.

A quorum for a general meeting of the 
company is constituted by three or more 
shareholders present in person or by proxy 
and entitled to vote. The passing of resolutions 
at a meeting of the company, other than 
special resolutions, requires a simple majority. 
To be passed, a special resolution requires a 
majority of at least 75% of the votes cast.

The company specifies record dates for 
general meetings, by which date shareholders 
must be registered on the company’s Register 
of Members to be entitled to attend. Record 
dates are specified in the Notice of AGM. 
Shareholders may exercise their right to vote 
by appointing a proxy, by electronic means or 
in writing, to vote some or all of their shares. 
The requirements for the receipt of valid proxy 
forms are also set out in the Notice of AGM.

The 2019 AGM will be held at 12 noon on 
Tuesday, 29 January 2019 at the Westbury 
Hotel in Dublin 2, Ireland.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

67

Corporate Governance
What the Board did in 2018

In 2018, the Board focused  
on strategy, succession and 
operational performance.

The Board continued to oversee the evolution 
of the long-term strategy of the Group during 
FY2018. It evaluated no less than ten potential 
acquisitions in some detail (several of which 
did not proceed for commercial reasons)  
and supported the acquisition of both Create 
NYC and SmartAnalyst. For Ashfield, these 
acquisitions helped develop its communications 
offering, adding talented management teams 
which enhanced its capabilities and extended 
its geographic reach.

Investment in capital assets continued with 
the phased fit out and development of the 
newly acquired Sharp Clinical facility in 
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, further investment 
to complete development of the new 
greenfield site for Sharp’s Clinical EU business 
in Rhymney, Wales, and enhancements to its 
Heerenveen facility in the Netherlands. The 
Board supported continued expansion within 
the Ashfield business, opening new offices for 
its Cambridge BioMarketing and Vynamic 
businesses in Boston, MA and for the wider 
Ashfield Healthcare Communication business 
in Manchester, UK.

The Board’s attention to succession and talent 
development continued, as evidenced by the 
addition to the Board of Nigel Clerkin and Erik 
van Snippenberg.

29 meetings

4 locations

68

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

November
The Risk, Investment & Financing 
Committee (RIF) met to conduct a 
review of the Group’s Internal Control 
and Risk Management systems as well as 
receiving an update on Cyber Security. 
The RIF also conducted a number of one 
and three year post transaction reviews. 
The Audit Committee met twice in 
November. The first meeting was to 
review the FY2017 external auditor 
report and the Group’s draft preliminary 
announcement of results for FY2017.  
At its second meeting that month, the 
Audit Committee received an update 
from the Internal Audit team, made 
recommendations which the Board 
subsequently approved in relation to  
the Directors’ Compliance Statements, 
the Group’s Viability Statement, the 
Annual Report for FY2017 and the 
FY2017 final dividend to be proposed  
to shareholders. At the Board meeting, 
the Board received a presentation from 
the Group’s corporate finance advisors 
on the state of the market and 
competitors. The Remuneration 
Committee met to review performance 
against the Group’s incentive and bonus 
schemes, changes to its terms of 
reference and to review the draft 
Remuneration Report for the 2017 
Annual Report. 

December
As 2017 drew to a close, the Board 
convened to approve the 2017 Annual 
Report and to confirm the appointment  
of Nigel Clerkin as Chief Financial Officer  
of the Group. The Remuneration 
Committee also met to agree the grant  
of awards under one of its incentive 
schemes and to test performance criteria 
set out in previous option awards.

January
The Audit Committee met at the end of 
January to review and approve the draft  
Q1 Trading Statement and to receive 
updates from Internal Audit and the finance 
team in relation to IFRS 15 and 16. 

The Group’s AGM took place in the 
Westbury Hotel in Dublin at the end of  
the month. The meeting successfully 
concluded with all resolutions passed. 
While gathered for the AGM, the Board 
took the opportunity to conduct its annual 
two-day session with the Group’s SET to 
discuss the alignment of key objectives and 
activities with the Group’s strategy. The 
Board met again during this strategy 
session and considered proposals in 
relation to a new Boston office and one  
of the Group’s finance facilities. The Board 
also received a number of updates from 
Group functions, including tax and HR.

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report March
The Board met in March to discuss 
possible M&A opportunities, to receive 
an update on progress in preparing for 
GDPR and to review the Group’s gender 
pay gap report. The Board was pleased 
with the progress made in preparing for 
the implementation of GDPR, noting the 
key milestones remaining before the 
new regulation came into force and  
that it would be a continuous 
process thereafter.

April
In April, the RIF met to discuss progress 
on a number of potential M&A targets 
which included updates on Create  
NYC, SmartAnalyst and other potential 
targets, considering the alignment of each 
opportunity with the Group’s strategy.

May
With the Group’s half-year approaching, 
the Audit Committee convened to discuss 
the draft Interim Report and updates on 
the Viability Statement, Internal Audit, 
treasury, Directors’ Compliance Statements 
and corporate governance developments.

The RIF met to review the Risk 
Management Framework and approve the 
Principal Risks and Uncertainties for 
inclusion in the Interim Report. A number 
of updates to the Committee were also 
provided in relation to Quality & 
Compliance, Cyber Security, M&A and 
Financing. The RIF reviewed its terms of 
reference and agreed some amendments 
which were subsequently approved by 
the Board. 

The Board also convened to review the 
draft Interim Report, updated FY2017 
guidance to the market and the proposed 
interim dividend. 

June
In June, the Board approved the purchase 
of SmartAnalyst and later in the month,  
the acquisition of Create NYC. Updates 
were provided to the Board on Investor 
Relations and Corporate Governance. 
Upon recommendation from the 
Nominations & Governance Committee, 
the Board approved the appointment of 
Erik van Snippenberg and the change in 
role of Chris Corbin.

July
In July, the Remuneration Committee 
reviewed executive compensation in 
connection with the preparation for the 
FY2019 budget.

August
In early August, the Audit Committee 
reviewed the draft Q3 Trading Update. 
The Board also met to approve the 
disposal of the Aquilant division. Later in 
August, the Audit Committee re-convened 
during which EY presented its Audit Plan 
and the Committee reviewed EY’s 
independence, fees and engagement 
terms. The Audit Committee also received 
a full internal audit update, conducted a 
review of the Committee’s performance 
and resources and, in advance of 
year-end, conducted the goodwill 
impairment review and reviewed the 
Group’s long-term viability and progress 
on implementing IFRS 15 and 16. 

The Board subsequently convened again 
and received updates from the Chairs of 
the Audit and Remuneration Committees, 
an update from the CEO and the Head 
of Corporate Development and 
reviewed the draft budget for FY2019.

September
As FY2018 drew to a close, the Board 
convened in the US for a three-day 
Board meeting, visiting Cambridge 
BioMarketing and Vynamic in Boston 
and reconvening in New York. This 
overseas trip enabled the Board to meet 
a broad group of managers from the US 
businesses both in formal and informal 
settings. Throughout these three days, 
the Board received updates from the 
Ashfield Advisory and Ashfield 
Healthcare Communications business, 
the Ashfield Clinical & Commercial 
business and the Sharp businesses as 
well as presentations from the two 
newly-acquired entities, Create NYC and 
SmartAnalyst. The strategic merits of 
other capital expenditure and potential 
M&A opportunities were also 
considered. A number of other Board 
matters were discussed, including the 
approval of the 2019 budget and the 
results of the Board evaluation.

The Remuneration Committee also met 
in September to consider the FY2019 
goals for the SET and to discuss two new 
proposed share plans to replace the 
Group’s existing plans which expire 
in 2020.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

69

Nominations & Governance  
Committee Report

Composition as at 30 September 2018
Peter Gray (Chair)
Chris Brinsmead
Linda Wilding
Myles Lee
Philip Toomey

Key Responsibilities
The key responsibilities of the Nominations and 
Governance Committee are:
• 

to evaluate the balance of skills, knowledge, experience 
and diversity of the Board and Committees and make 
recommendations to the Board with regard to 
any changes;
to consider succession planning for directors and other 
senior executives taking into account what skills and 
expertise are needed for the future;
to identify, and nominate for the approval of the Board, 
candidates for appointment as directors; 
to consider the re-appointment of any non-executive 
director at the conclusion of their specified term of 
office and recommend their re-appointment to the 
Board; and
to review Corporate Governance developments and 
ensure the Group remains compliant with all aspects  
of governance applicable to it.

• 

• 

• 

• 

Meetings
The Committee met three times during the year ended 
30 September 2018. Individual attendance at these 
meetings is set out overleaf. The Committee is chaired by 
the Chairman of the Board and apart from the Chairman, 
is comprised only of non-executive directors considered 
by the Board to be independent. The Chief Executive is 
present occasionally at the invitation of the Committee.

Key Activities of the Committee during 2018
•  Recommended the appointment of Nigel Clerkin 

as CFO.

•  Recommended the expansion of the Committee to 
meet the future needs of our diverse and ever-
evolving Group.

•  Recommended the appointment of Erik van 

Snippenberg as a non-executive director and member 
of the Audit Committee and oversaw his induction; and 
•  Reviewed Board succession, commencing two separate 

searches for non-executive directors in light of 
planned retirements.

Appointment of a new CFO
When Alan Ralph informed the Board of his intention  
to retire at the end of 2018, the Committee engaged Korn 
Ferry to search for a replacement Chief Financial Officer.  
A candidate profile was prepared outlining the key skills, 
experience, characteristics and requirements for the role, 
and following a series of meetings and discussions 
involving the CEO and Group Head of HR, a number of 
candidates were shortlisted, including internal candidates.

 “A busy year, with Board  
changes, Board succession 
planning and planning for new 
corporate governance rules  
at the forefront of the 
Committee’s activities.” 

Peter Gray
Chair of the Nominations & Governance Committee

70

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Attendance Record and Tenure

Member

Peter Gray (Chair)
Chris Brinsmead
Myles Lee
Linda Wilding
Philip Toomey

Number of meetings held 
when director was a member

Number of 
meetings attended

3
3
2
2
3

Committee 
tenure

12 years
6 years
<1 year
<1 year
9 years

The shortlisted candidates were interviewed by members of the Board and the CEO. The process culminated with the Committee recommending 
to the Board the appointment of Nigel Clerkin as Chief Financial Officer. The recommendation received unanimous Board approval. Nigel brings 
with him significant industry experience and an excellent track record of leading finance functions in the international healthcare sector. On 
19 December 2017, it was announced that Nigel would join the Group as Chief Financial Officer with effect from 1 May 2018 and was formally 
appointed as an executive director on 15 May 2018. As previously disclosed, Alan Ralph remained with the Group until November 2018 to help 
ensure a smooth transition of his CFO responsibilities. 

New Non-Executive Director Appointment
When Gerard van Odijk informed the Board that he intended to step down at the end of the AGM in January 2018, Korn Ferry were engaged to 
assist with the search for a new non-executive director. Given Gerard van Odijk’s strong international industry experience, the Committee was 
keen to identify candidates with similar skills, experience and background.

After interviewing a number of potential candidates, the Committee recommended the appointment of Erik van Snippenberg to the Board as a 
non-executive director and a member of the Audit Committee. The Board subsequently approved Erik’s appointment with effect from 2 July 
2018. Erik brings a wealth of industry and international experience to the Board specifically in relation to product launches, product lifecycle 
management, business development and strategy. 

Change in Role and New Non-Executive Appointment
During the summer of 2018, Chris Corbin decided to bring forward his retirement date as Executive Chairman of Ashfield. As announced in 
September 2016, Chris was due to retire as Executive Chairman of Ashfield and from the Board of UDG Healthcare in April 2019. However, given 
his deep industry experience and tenure with the Group, the Board was delighted when Chris agreed to the Committee and Board’s request to 
extend his term on the Board in a non-executive director capacity, subject to re-election at the AGM in 2019.

Future Succession Planning for Non-Executive Directors
As previously noted, Philip Toomey will step down at our upcoming AGM having served over ten years on the Board. Chris Brinsmead, will, in 
April 2019, have served nine years as a non-executive director and will most likely retire at the 2020 AGM. I myself have now been Chairman for 
almost seven years and a director for over 14 years. My succession must therefore be planned for. We commissioned PwC and have also 
commissioned Korn Ferry to carry out a further search with a view to making one or two additional appointments to ensure sufficient talent on 
the Board and to supplement our pool of succession candidates for the role of Chair.

Board Appointment and Tenure

Length of tenure as at 30 September 2018

Director Name

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Year 6

Year 7 

Year 8

Year 9+

Peter Gray
Brendan McAtamney
Nigel Clerkin
Chris Brinsmead
Myles Lee
Linda Wilding
Lisa Riccardi
Nancy Miller-Rich
Chris Corbin
Philip Toomey
Erik van Snippenberg

Date of 
Appointment

28-Sep-04
16-Dec-13
15-May-18
12-Apr-10
01-Apr-17
16-Dec-13
14-Jun-13
20-Jun-16
20-Jun-03
27-Feb-08
02-Jul-18

Date of next 
election or 
re-election

29-Jan-19
29-Jan-19
29-Jan-19
29-Jan-19
29-Jan-19
29-Jan-19
29-Jan-19
29-Jan-19
29-Jan-19
–
29-Jan-19

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

71

 
Nominations & Governance  
Committee Report (continued)

Corporate Governance Considerations
The Committee also continues to review all external and internal governance procedures to ensure ongoing compliance and that the Board and 
its Committees are best structured to meet the future needs of our diverse and ever-evolving Group. In January, the Committee recommended 
the membership of the Committee be enhanced and they proposed that Myles Lee and Linda Wilding join the Committee with effect from 
1 February 2018, which was subsequently approved by the Board.

Last year, the Committee engaged Independent Audit to conduct a first-ever external independent audit of its Committees, starting with the 
Remuneration Committee and this year, the Risk, Investment & Financing Committee. For details of this evaluation, please refer to page 78.

The Committee considered recent changes to the UK Corporate Governance Code and this was then discussed at Board level with the 
Committee arranging external training for the Board as a whole during November 2018.

Succession Planning for Senior Management
During the year, the Committee also considered succession planning for the SET. The composition of the SET was refreshed during the year 
following the departure of Jez Moulding, with the Board deciding that the three leaders of the Ashfield divisions should join the SET 
going forward. 

Priorities for 2018
•  Focusing on succession planning for members of the Board
•  Supporting the Group’s preparation for compliance with changing governance requirements being introduced by the 2018 UK Corporate 

Governance Code and applicable to the Group from 1 October 2019.

Peter Gray
Chair of the Nominations & Governance Committee

72

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Audit Committee Report

 “The Committee’s composition  
was refreshed during the year  
with the appointment of Erik van 
Snippenberg following the 
departure of Gerard van Odijk.” 

Myles Lee
Chair of the Audit Committee

Composition as at 30 September 2018
Myles Lee (Chair)
Erik van Snippenberg
Linda Wilding

As set out in the biographical details on pages 60 and 61, 
the members of the Committee have a strong mix of skills, 
expertise and experience from a variety of industries and 
as a whole have the relevant competencies for the sector  
in which we operate. The Board has determined that both 
Myles Lee, a member of the Institute of Chartered 
Accountants in Ireland, and Linda Wilding, a member  
of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and 
Wales, are the Committee’s financial experts.

Meetings
The Committee met six times during the year ended 
30 September 2018. Individual attendance at these 
meetings, along with the tenure of each member, is set out 
above. In the event that a director is unavailable to attend 
a Committee meeting, he or she can communicate their 
views on any items to be raised at the meeting through the 
Chair of the Committee.

The Chief Executive, the Chief Financial Officer, the Head 
of Finance and the Head of Internal Audit together with 
representatives of the external auditor are invited to 
attend each meeting of the Committee. In addition, the 
Chairman of the Board attends meetings at the invitation 
of the Committee. 

The Committee regularly meets separately with the Head 
of Internal Audit and with the external auditor without 
others being present.

The Chair of the Committee reports to the Board, as part 
of a separate agenda item at Board meetings, on all 
significant matters reviewed by the Committee. 

Role and Responsibilities
The Committee supports the Board in fulfilling its 
responsibilities in relation to financial reporting and 
reviews the effectiveness of the Group’s internal financial 
control and financial risk management systems, pursuant 
to the Committee’s terms of reference which are reviewed 
annually and are available on the Group’s website. The 
Committee also monitors and reviews the effectiveness  
of the Group’s Internal Audit function and, on behalf  
of the Board, manages the appointment and remuneration 
of the external auditor and in addition monitors their 
performance and independence. The Group has an 
independent and confidential reporting procedure and  
the Committee monitors the operation of this facility.

Once again, the Board requested that the Committee 
advise it on both the long-term viability of the Group and 
also its compliance with relevant laws and the associated 
adoption of a compliance policy and statement by the 
directors pursuant to section 225 of the Companies Act, 
2014. Details of this review of long-term viability and the 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

73

Audit Committee Report (continued)

Attendance Record and Tenure

Member

Myles Lee (Chair)
Gerard van Odijk 1 
Erik van Snippenberg 2
Linda Wilding

Number of meetings held 
when director was a member

Number of 
meetings attended

Committee 
tenure

6
3
2
6

>1 year
3 years
4 months
5 years

1  Gerard van Odijk was unable to attend the November meeting due to conflict with a prior engagement. Gerard provided his comments on the various agenda items in advance of the 

meeting. Gerard stepped down from the Audit Committee on 30 January 2018.

2  Erik van Snippenberg joined the Audit Committee on 2 July 2018.

Group’s Viability Statement are contained in the Risk Report on pages 77 and 78, and details of the Directors’ Compliance Policy and Directors’ 
Compliance Statement are set out on page 94.

The activities undertaken by the Committee in fulfilling its key responsibilities in respect of the year to 30 September 2018 are detailed below. 

Financial Reporting
The Group’s financial statements are prepared by finance personnel with the appropriate level of qualifications and expertise. The Committee  
is responsible for monitoring the integrity of the Group’s financial statements and reviewing the significant financial reporting judgements 
contained therein. 

In respect of the year to 30 September 2018, the Committee reviewed the Group’s Trading Updates issued in February and August 2018, the 
Interim Report for the six months to 31 March 2018 and the Preliminary Announcement and Annual Report for the year to 30 September 2018. 

In carrying out these reviews, the Committee considered:
•  whether the Group had applied appropriate accounting policies and practices;
• 

the significant areas in which judgement had been applied in preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the accounting 
policies set out on pages 107 to 117;

•  whether the Annual Report and Accounts, taken as a whole are fair, balanced and understandable and provide the information necessary  

for shareholders to assess the Group’s performance, business model and strategy;
the clarity and completeness of disclosures and compliance with relevant financial reporting standards and corporate governance and 
regulatory requirements; and
the consistency of accounting policies across the Group and on a year-on-year basis.

• 

• 

The significant areas of judgement considered by the Committee in relation to the financial statements for the year to 30 September 2018  
and how these were addressed are outlined below.

Revenue Recognition
The critical area of judgement from a revenue perspective is the determination of the proportion of completion of each revenue contract to 
ensure revenue is being recognised in line with the accounting policies of the Group. The Committee, through discussions with management,  
the external auditor and the Head of Internal Audit, considered the judgements applied when determining the appropriate revenue recognition 
profile applied to the revenue contracts. Given the changing nature of the Group’s business, Internal Audit increased their level of audit emphasis 
on revenue recognition during the year. 

Goodwill Impairment
The Committee considered the carrying value of goodwill in the 2018 financial statements. As part of the annual impairment testing process, 
management prepare detailed models assessing the recoverable amount of each cash generating unit (CGU), based on a value in use approach. 
The Committee reviewed these models and, having considered the underlying judgements and assumptions, were satisfied with the 
methodology used and the result of the assessment. Details of the impairment testing process, including the underlying assumptions, are set  
out in Note 1 to the financial statements.

Each of these areas received particular focus from the external auditor, and the external auditor provided detailed analysis and assessment  
of the matters in their report to the Committee.

74

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Going Concern and Viability Statement
The Audit Committee reviewed the draft Going Concern and Viability Statements before recommending them for approval to the Board.  
Earlier in the year, the Committee agreed to increase the number of scenarios against which to test the Group’s viability to five, by modelling  
the simultaneous occurrence of two of the pre-existing scenarios. Under all scenarios, the Group remained viable. For further details, please refer 
to page 26.

Changes in IFRS Standards
The Committee received updates on the preparation for the implementation of IFRS 9 (Financial Instruments), IFRS 15 (Revenue from Contracts 
with Customers) and IFRS 16 (Leases). The Group has decided that the ‘modified retrospective’ transition approach is the most practical method 
for implementation of IFRS 15 and IFRS 16. For IFRS 9 and IFRS 15, the necessary changes have been put in place for the financial year beginning 
1 October 2018 and in respect of IFRS 16, a project is underway to implement the necessary changes for 1 October 2019.

Internal Control
The Committee is responsible, on behalf of the Board, for reviewing the effectiveness of the Group’s internal financial controls and financial risk 
management systems. Details of the Group’s risk management system and internal controls are set out in pages 25 to 26.

In carrying out these responsibilities, the Committee reviewed reports issued by both Internal Audit and the external auditor and held regular 
discussions with the Head of Internal Audit and representatives of the external auditor. The Committee also reviewed the outcome of an 
assessment of the Group’s internal financial controls which had been co-ordinated by Internal Audit.

This overall process, which has been in place throughout the financial year up to the date of the approval of the Annual Report and financial 
statements, accords with the FRC Guidance on Risk Management, Internal Control and Related Financial and Business Reporting and is regularly 
reviewed by the Board. This system of internal control is designed to manage, rather than eliminate, the risk of failure to achieve business 
objectives and can only provide reasonable and not absolute assurance against material misstatement or loss.

Internal Audit
The Committee is responsible for monitoring and reviewing the operation and effectiveness of the Internal Audit function including its focus, 
plans, activities and resources. 

At the beginning of the financial year, the Committee reviewed and approved the internal audit plan for the year having considered the adequacy 
of staffing levels and expertise within the function. During the year, the Committee received regular reports from the Head of Internal Audit 
summarising findings from the work of Internal Audit and the responses from management to address these findings. The Committee monitors 
progress on the implementation of the action plans on significant findings to ensure these are completed satisfactorily. 

Earlier in the year, the Committee commissioned an external quality assessment of the Group’s Internal Audit function. The assessment was 
conducted by KPMG and the results confirmed that the Group Internal Audit function had a strong platform, was well-respected throughout the 
business and generally conforms with the majority of the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors standards with no areas of non-conformance.  
A number of recommendations were made, for example, an increase in reliance on data analytics as an audit tool and also a greater use of KPIs to 
manage the Internal Audit function. The Committee will continue to monitor the implementation and timing of all suggested recommendations.

External Audit
Appointment, Independence and Performance
The Committee manages the relationship with the Group’s external auditor on behalf of the Board. 

The Committee carried out its annual assessment of the external auditor including a review of the external auditor’s internal policies and 
procedures for maintaining independence and objectivity and consideration of their approach to audit quality and materiality. The Committee 
reviewed and approved the external audit plan as presented by the external auditor. The Committee also reviewed the performance of the 
external auditor and assessed the qualifications and expertise of their resources. The Committee concluded that the external auditor was 
independent of the Group, that the Committee was satisfied with the performance of the external auditor and that the audit process 
was effective. 

The Committee also reviewed the external auditor’s engagement letter and recommended the level of remuneration of the external auditor to the 
Board having reviewed the scope and nature of the work to be performed. Details of the remuneration of the external auditor are set out in Note 
5 to the financial statements. 

In accordance with the Group’s policy on the hiring of former employees of the external auditor, the Committee reviews and approves any 
appointment of an individual, within three years of having previously been employed by the external auditor, to a senior managerial position  
in the Group. 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

75

Audit Committee Report (continued)

In accordance with the Companies Act 2014, the Group has committed to rotate its external auditor at least every ten years. Breffni Maguire has 
been the Group’s lead audit engagement partner with effect from the financial year ended 30 September 2017 and has been in place since the 
appointment of Ernst & Young in FY2017 following an formal tender process conducted in July 2016. There are no contractual obligations which 
restrict the Committee’s choice of external auditor.

Non-Audit Services
The Committee has a formal policy governing the engagement of the external auditor to provide non-audit services and this policy is reviewed  
on an annual basis. The policy is designed to safeguard the objectivity and independence of the external auditor and prevents the provision of 
services which would result in the external auditor auditing its own firm’s work, conducting activities that would normally be undertaken by 
management, having a mutuality of financial interest with the Group or acting in an advocacy role for the Group. 

The external auditor is permitted to provide non-audit services that are not, or are not perceived to be, in conflict with auditor independence, 
provided it has the skill, experience, competence and integrity to carry out the work and is considered by the Committee to be the most 
appropriate to provide such services in the best interests of the Group. The engagement of the external auditor to provide non-audit services 
must be pre-approved by the Committee or entered into pursuant to pre-approved policies and procedures established by the Committee and 
approved by the Board. 

The nature, extent and scope of non-audit services provided to the Group by the external auditor and the economic importance of the Group  
to the external auditor were also monitored to ensure that independence and objectivity were not impaired. The Group has decided to adopt the 
EU Directive such that the non-audit services payable to the auditors will be no more than 70% of the average audit fee for the previous 
three years.

During FY18, the external auditor conducted a review of the Group’s cyber security programme. For further information, please refer to Note 5 
to the financial statements.

Confidential Reporting Procedures
In line with best practice, the Group has an independent and confidential reporting procedure which allows employees to raise any concerns 
about business practice. During the year, the Committee reviewed the operation of the procedures in place to allow employees to raise matters  
in a confidential manner and concluded that this facility was operating effectively. We encourage employees to report genuine issues and 
concerns as they arise. These concerns are taken seriously. They are investigated where appropriate and confidentiality is respected. 

Myles Lee
Chair of the Audit Committee

76

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Risk, Investment & Financing  
Committee Report

Composition as at 30 September 2018
Chris Brinsmead (Chair)
Lisa Ricciardi
Nancy Miller-Rich

Meetings
The Committee met five times during the year ended 
30 September 2018. Individual attendance at these 
meetings along with the tenure of each member is set out 
overleaf. The Chief Executive, Chief Financial Officer, the 
Group Head of Quality & Compliance and the Global 
Head of IT are not members of the Committee but 
regularly attend meetings at the invitation of 
the Committee.

Where a Committee member has been unable to attend  
a Committee meeting, he or she can communicate their 
views on any items to be raised at the meeting through  
the Chair.

• 

• 

Key Responsibilities
•  To oversee the Group’s risk management systems, 
including its risk register and internal controls;
to oversee the identification and assessment of the 
Group’s Principal Risks and Uncertainties as well as 
their associated mitigation strategies, and recommend 
them to the Board for approval;
to consider, review and authorise the commencement 
of due diligence on potential transactions; 
to consider, review and approve potential transactions to 
be made by the Group which have a consideration value 
of up to €50 million or foreign exchange equivalent; 
to evaluate, and recommend to the Board for approval, 
any proposed capital expenditure requests not 
exceeding $10 million or foreign exchange equivalent 
and any debt and equity financing proposals; and
•  conduct one-year and three-year post-acquisition 

• 

• 

 “In August the Committee 
undertook an independent 
evaluation of its own performance, 
the results of which are outlined  
in this report.”

Chris Brinsmead
Chair of the Risk, Investment & Financing Committee

reviews.

Main Activities During the Year 
Risk Management
The effective understanding and management of risk  
is critical to the success and viability of the Group. It is  
in that context that the Group has incorporated quarterly 
viability reviews within the Risk Management Process 
ensuring that the risks associated with what the Group 
does are addressed in the most appropriate way. To 
support this, the Group has developed and implemented  
a risk management system that facilitates the identification 
of the principal or significant risks that face the Group and 
which allows those risks and their associated resolutions  
to be actively amended and monitored.

This system is dynamic and as part of its ongoing 
development the Group has focused on a greater 
facilitation of its risk identification and management,  
as well as an internal review of its effectiveness. As a 
consequence, the Committee is satisfied that the Group’s 
risk management system is effective.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

77

Risk, Investment & Financing Committee Report (continued)

Attendance Record and Tenure

Member

Chris Brinsmead (Chair)
Gerard van Odijk 1
Lisa Ricciardi 2 
Nancy Miller-Rich 3 

Number of meetings held 
when director was a member

Number of 
meetings attended

Committee 
tenure

5
2
4
4

7 years
4 years
5 years
>1 year

1  Gerard van Odijk stepped down from the Board on 30 January 2018. He was unable to attend the 14 November RIF meeting due to prior travel commitments. 
2  Lisa Riccardi was unable to attend the RIF meeting on 14 November due to a prior engagement.
3  Nancy Miller-Rich was unable to attend the RIF meeting on 26 April due to a prior engagement.

The Principal Risks and Uncertainties for the Group are set out on pages 28 to 31. 

There are two executive sub-committees in place, the Risk & Viability sub-committee and the Quality & Compliance sub-committee, both  
of which report their annual activities to this Committee. The Chairman of the Board sits on the Quality & Compliance sub-committee.

The process for development of the Viability Statement was to review the Group’s activities and, considering the Group’s strategy, to review key 
aspects of the business environment. Long-term viability forms part of the Group strategy, as one of the objectives of developing a long-term 
strategy is to ensure the viability of the Group. The scenario selection is based on the risks identified in the Principal Risks and Uncertainties 
which is reviewed on a regular basis by the Committee.

During the year, the Committee also received the results of a follow-up cyber security audit completed by EY. While good progress had been 
made since the first audit in 2015, the Committee acknowledged that cyber security was an ongoing project to ensure robust controls are in place 
throughout the Group and reviewed regularly. Cyber security awareness training has been rolled out across the Group and a cyber security 
governance framework implemented.

Investment
As was the case in the previous year, the Committee was heavily involved in reviewing requests to proceed to due diligence for a number of 
potential acquisitions, including SmartAnalyst and Create NYC. 

Pursuant to the Committee’s terms of reference, the Committee approved a capital expenditure request to invest in a HealthCloud, a new CRM 
system. In early 2018, the Board approved an amendment to the Committee’s terms of reference, increasing the value of capital expenditure 
requests that the Committee was authorised to approve from €3 million to $10 million. 

During the year, the Committee undertook a number of one and three year post-transaction reviews including reviews of the acquisitions  
of STEM, Pegasus, KnowledgePoint360 and Galliard. 

Financing
During the year, the Committee reviewed the financial position of the Group with the Chief Financial Officer and the Group Head of Tax and 
Treasury. These reviews included an analysis of the Group’s banking and available financing facilities, cash balances and also involved a review  
of the Group’s acquisition capacity.

External Review
In August, the Committee undertook an independent review of its own performance by using an external provider, Independent Audit. The 
findings of the review were presented to the RIF in September and the consensus was that the Committee worked well as a group, provided good 
challenge and had good communication with management. The Committee engaged well with the Board and reported appropriately on its 
activities. Some suggestions were made by Independent Audit in relation to risk management, and the Committee agreed to meet again to 
consider these.

Chris Brinsmead
Chair of the Risk, Investment & Financing Committee

78

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Directors’ Remuneration Report

 “Following completion of  
its external independent 
Committee evaluation in 2017,  
the Committee has focused  
on succession and strategic 
alignment of executive goals.”

Linda Wilding
Chair of the Remuneration Committee

Composition as at 30 September 2018
Linda Wilding (Chair)
Chris Brinsmead
Peter Gray
Lisa Ricciardi
Philip Toomey

Dear Shareholder,
I am pleased to present, on behalf of the Board, our 
Directors’ Remuneration Report for the year ended 
30 September 2018. 

The Committee continues to monitor best practice 
developments in remuneration and once again presents 
this year’s report in accordance with the requirements of 
the UK Companies Act 2006 and the Large and Medium-
sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) 
(Amendment) Regulations 2013 (the ‘Regulations’).  
The Committee is mindful of recent amendments to the 
Regulations and also the recent introduction of the new 
UK Corporate Governance Code which will be applicable 
to UDG Healthcare from 1 October 2019. We continue  
to follow the provisions of the current UK Corporate 
Governance Code, including the alignment of 
remuneration arrangements with the Group’s strategy. 

UDG Healthcare is an Irish incorporated company  
and is therefore not subject to the UK company law 
requirement to submit its Directors’ Remuneration Report 
(Policy) to a binding vote. At the AGM in January 2017,  
our revised Policy (which improved the clarity of the  
Policy itself and reflected evolving market practice and 
shareholders’ expectations) was approved by our 
shareholders by an advisory vote. As no changes to the 
Policy are proposed this year, the Policy will not be subject 
to a further vote at the 2019 AGM. In the interests of 
succinct reporting the Policy is not reproduced in this 
Report but can be found on our website and in our FY 
2016 Annual Report. 

We are once again submitting our annual report on 
remuneration, which is prepared following the format 
prescribed under UK law, for its annual advisory vote.

Overall Performance and Context
The Group delivered a strong financial performance in 
2018 with adjusted earnings per share increasing by 24% 
(22% on a constant currency basis) for the year. The 
Board has proposed a final dividend of 11.75$ cent per 
share, giving a total dividend for the year of 16.00$ cent 
per share. This dividend represents an increase of 20% 
over 2017. Our Relative Total Shareholder Return (TSR) 
tested against the constituents of the FTSE 250 index over 
the last three years to 30 September 2018 was also strong, 
ranking the Group in the 75th percentile.

Director Changes during 2018
The Group saw a number of high profile changes during 
the year. After 20 years with the business, UDG 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

79

Directors’ Remuneration Report 
(continued)

Healthcare’s Chief Financial Officer, Alan Ralph, stepped down from the Board on 15 May 2018. For the period from 16 May 2018 to 
30 September 2018 (and through to 30 November 2018 when he retired from the Group), Alan remained with the business to support 
the transition. 

Nigel Clerkin joined UDG Healthcare, succeeding Alan Ralph as Chief Financial Officer from 1 May 2018, and joining the Board as executive 
director on 15 May 2018. 

After over 18 years with UDG Healthcare, Chris Corbin stepped down from the role of Executive Chairman of Ashfield on 2 July 2018, assuming 
the role of non-executive director from July 2018. 

After four years, Gerard van Odijk stepped down from his role as non-executive director of the Board at the last AGM on 30 January 2018 and  
on 2 July 2018, Erik van Snippenberg joined the Board as a non-executive director.

Executive Remuneration for 2018
Annual Bonus
Annual bonus targets are primarily set by reference to challenging internal financial targets together with an element based on personal 
performance. For the year to 30 September 2018, the financial performance of the Group resulted in an actual bonus achievement (as a 
percentage of their maximum opportunity) of 18% for Brendan McAtamney, 13% for Alan Ralph (who retired from the Board on 15 May 2018), 
23% for Nigel Clerkin (who joined the Board on 15 May 2018) on a pro rata basis. Details of this assessment are on pages 82 and 84.

LTIP Awards
The Committee has assessed the performance against targets for the December 2015 and February 2016 LTIP awards, both of which share 
performance periods from 1 October 2015 to 30 September 2018 (the 2015 LTIP Awards). As set out on page 85, the cash flow performance  
of the Group ($350m) resulted in 67% vesting for this element for the three-year period to 30 September 2018. As mentioned above, TSR tested 
against the constituents of the FTSE 250 index over the three-year period was strong, ranking the Group at the 75th percentile. A portion of  
the TSR element of the award is also subject to meeting an EPS growth underpin of 5% which was also achieved in full over the three-year 
performance period. As a result, 100% of this element of the award will vest. Accordingly, 84% of the overall 2015 LTIP Awards will vest on  
their prescribed vesting dates in December 2020 and February 2021 subject to the fulfilment of all other conditions of the LTIP scheme. 

Executive Remuneration for 2019
During the year, the Committee reviewed executive remuneration arrangements to consider whether they continued to be aligned with 
shareholders’ interests and the Group’s strategy. Following such review, the Committee concluded this to be the case. 

Salary
We have agreed an increase in salary for executive directors of 2% which is consistent with the average increase awarded across the wider 
workforce. This increase is effective from 1 October 2018. This excludes Alan Ralph and Chris Corbin, who both retired from their executive 
director roles on 15 May 2018 and 2 July 2018 respectively. Alan retired from UDG Healthcare as of 30 November 2018, while Chris has agreed  
to remain on the Board as a non-executive director subject to re-election at AGM. Nigel Clerkin joined the Board in May 2018 on a salary of 
€475,000. Given Nigel’s previous experience as a Chief Financial Officer at a FTSE 100 plc in the healthcare industry, and having conducted  
a competitive process, the Committee believe that the salary level is appropriate given the calibre of the candidate and we are glad to note that 
the response from shareholders to the appointment has been very positive.

Annual Bonus
We intend to retain the same mix of financial and non-financial goals in relation to bonus arrangements for executive directors in FY2019.  
Further details are set out on page 84.

LTIP Scheme
In relation to the LTIP for FY2019, Brendan McAtamney and Nigel Clerkin will participate at 150% of base salary. As previously noted, due to their 
respective retirement plans, neither Alan Ralph nor Chris Corbin received awards under the LTIP for FY2018. There are no proposed changes to 
the performance measures for awards to be granted in FY2019.

The Company’s current share plans expire in 2020. We have reviewed these share plans to reflect current corporate governance guidelines, 
established best practice and also to provide the Company with sufficient flexibility to compete effectively for talent now and in the future.  
These share plans will be put forward for approval by shareholders at the AGM in January 2019.

Linda Wilding
Chair of the Remuneration Committee

80

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Directors’ Remuneration (Audited)
The following table sets out the total remuneration for directors for the year ending 30 September 2018 and the prior year.

Salary and fees (a)

Benefits (b)

Annual bonus (c)

Long term incentives (d)

Pensions (e)

Total

2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

Executive directors
Nigel Clerkin 1
Chris Corbin 2
Brendan McAtamney
Alan Ralph 1

Non-executive directors 3
Chris Brinsmead
Peter Gray 
Myles Lee 
Nancy Miller-Rich
Gerard van Odijk 4
Erik van Snippenberg 5
Lisa Ricciardi
Philip Toomey
Linda Wilding 

198
496
663
442

94
208
82
68
24
17
68
69
84

–
357
650 
433

86
205
38
68
67
–
68
85
84

13
60
41
28

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
55
42
32

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

46
–
119
57

–
191
487
324

–
408
1,006
403

–
814
964
903

40
82
166
110

–
165
163
108

297
1,046
1,995
1,040

–
1,582
2,306
1,800

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

94
208
82
68
24
17
68
69
84

86
205
38
68
67
–
68
85
84

2,513

2,141

142

129

222

1,002

1,817

2,681

398

436

5,092

6,389

1  On 15 May 2018, Alan Ralph stepped down from his position as executive director on the Board, and Nigel Clerkin joined the Board as executive director. 
2  Chris Corbin’s salary has been converted to Euro at the average rate for each year (0.8849 for 2018 and 0.8722 for 2017). Chris Corbin stepped down as an executive director on 2 July 

2018. Upon stepping down from his executive director role he assumed a non-executive director role. Further details are set out on page 71. 

3  Variances in non-executive director fees are primarily related to travel allowances. 
4  Gerard van Odijk retired from the Board at the 2018 AGM on 30 January 2018.
5  Erik van Snippenberg joined on 2 July 2018.

Details on the valuation methodologies applied are set out in Notes (a) to (e) below. These valuation methodologies are as required by the 
Regulations and are different from those applied within the financial statements which have been prepared in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The total expense relating to the directors recognised within the income statement in respect of long-term 
incentives is €1,402,707 (2017: €780,422) and in respect of pension benefits is €398,217 (2017: €435,813).

Notes to Directors’ Remuneration Table
(a) Salary and fees: This is the amount earned in respect of the financial year, whilst a director.

(b) Benefits: This is the taxable value of benefits paid in respect of the financial year. These benefits principally relate to death in service, disability 
and medical insurance, club subscriptions, the provision of a company car, or cash allowances taken in lieu of such benefits, and personal tax 
return preparation. 

(c) Annual bonus: This is the total bonus earned under the annual bonus scheme in respect of the financial year. For details of performance 

against targets set for the year see pages 85 to 86.

(d) Long term incentives: For the year ended 30 September 2018, this is the market value of the LTIP awards earned based on performance to 

30 September 2018. These LTIP awards (structured as nominally priced options) were granted in December 2015 and February 2016 and the 
performance period was the three-year period from 1 October 2015 to 30 September 2018. They are subject to an additional two-year holding 
period, vesting in December 2020 and February 2021 respectively. These awards are also entitled to dividend equivalents during the vesting 
period. The value above only includes dividend equivalents earned to 30 September 2018.

  The Committee has assessed performance for these awards and determined that 84% of the original award will vest at the end of the five-year 
vesting period. See pages 85 and 86 for details. The share price at the date of vesting is not available at this time and therefore the number of 
shares that will vest has been multiplied by the difference between the average share price over the quarter ending 30 September 2018 
(£7.65) and the exercise price per share option (€0.05) to calculate a representation of the value attributed to these options.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

81

Directors’ Remuneration Report 
(continued)

Notes to Directors’ Remuneration Table (continued)

For the year ended 30 September 2017, this is the market value of the LTIP awards (structured as nominally priced options) that were granted 
in December 2014 and the performance period was the three-year period from 1 October 2014 to 30 September 2017. The Committee 
reviewed actual performance relative to the performance targets in November 2017 and determined that 100% of the original award should 
vest at the end of the five-year vesting period. The difference between the share price on the third anniversary of the grant date (£8.95) and 
the exercise price per share option (€0.05) was multiplied by the number of options that vested to calculate the value attributed to the options 
for each director. This has been updated from the 2017 report where in accordance with the Regulations the disclosure was based on the 
average share price over the quarter ended 30 September 2017 (£8.35). This gave values of €760,697 for Chris Corbin, €900,264 for 
Brendan McAtamney and €843,328 for Alan Ralph. The value of dividend equivalents accrued during the performance period and up to the 
third anniversary of the grant date is also included.

(e) Pension: Please see pages 86 and 87 for further information.

Discussion of Individual Remuneration Elements
The following sections set out details on each element of remuneration for the year to 30 September 2018 and detail how we intend to operate 
our policy with respect to each element of remuneration for the year to 30 September 2019. 

Salary 
The base salaries of executive directors are reviewed annually having regard to personal performance, divisional or Group performance, 
significant changes in responsibilities and competitive market practice in their area of operation as well as the pay and conditions in the wider 
Group. The principal external comparator group against which executive directors’ reward is currently reviewed comprises the FTSE 250.

In setting Nigel Clerkin’s salary upon appointment, the Committee considered and balanced a number of reference points to ensure his salary 
was set at an appropriate level. These factors included: securing the right candidate at the right price; the exceptional calibre of the candidate; 
competitive market positioning; the previous incumbent’s package; appropriate internal relativities; and external expectations. 

In relation to both Brendan McAtamney and Nigel Clerkin, the Committee determined that their base salaries for FY2019 will increase by 2%, 
consistent with the average increases awarded across the wider Group. Changes to base salary are generally effective from 1 October.

As previously announced, Chris Corbin retired from his role as an executive director in July 2018, remaining on the Board in a non-executive 
capacity. A sum of £227,628 was paid to Chris Corbin upon his retirement in July 2018, being the amount that Chris would have been entitled  
to receive under his pre-existing employment arrangements, less amounts payable to Chris going forward in his capacity as a non-executive 
director. Alan Ralph retired in November 2018 and his salary remained unchanged during the five-month period from May 2018 until his 
retirement in November 2018 as he supported the transition of his duties to Nigel Clerkin.

The following table sets out the salaries for the executive directors at the start of each financial year.

Brendan McAtamney
Nigel Clerkin 1
Alan Ralph 2
Chris Corbin 3

1 October  
2018  
€’000

1 October 
2017  
€’000

€676
€485
€–
£–

€663
–
€442
£312

1  Nigel Clerkin was not employed by the Group until May 2018. Nigel’s salary was €475,000 from May 2015 until 30 September 2018.
2  On 15 May 2018, Alan Ralph stepped down from his position as executive director on the Board. His salary remained unchanged from this date to his retirement in November 2018.
3  Chris Corbin retired from his role as an executive director in July 2018, remaining on the Board in a non-executive capacity.

Benefits
Employment related benefits for executive directors principally relate to death in service, disability and medical insurance, club subscriptions,  
the provision of a company car or cash allowances taken in lieu of such benefits and personal tax return preparation. In the case of recruitment, 
benefits may include relocation allowances or other benefits considered appropriate by the Committee to facilitate recruitment. Any such 
benefits are in line with our recruitment remuneration policy.

Annual Bonus
Bonus for the year ended 30 September 2018
For the year ended 30 September 2018, the maximum bonus opportunity, as a percentage of salary, was 100% for each of Brendan McAtamney, 
Alan Ralph and Nigel Clerkin (on a pro-rated basis reflecting the date he joined the Company). The bonus opportunity for on-target performance 
was 70% of maximum. 

Given Chris Corbin’s retirement as an executive director in July 2018, Chris will not receive a bonus for the year ended 30 September 2018.

82

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
The following table sets out the performance measures applied for executive directors for the year ended 30 September 2018.

Financial targets
Profit
Cash flow

Non-financial targets

% of maximum 
bonus

70%
15%

85%

15%

100%

The performance targets were set by the Committee at the start of the financial year and comprised both financial and non-financial targets. 

Financial performance
Subsequent to the end of the financial year, the Committee reviewed actual performance against the targets set for each executive director.

Based on this review, the Committee determined that the executive directors should be awarded bonuses based on the achievement of financial 
targets as illustrated in the table below.

Measure

Group basic PBT 
Stretch PBT 
Group cash flow 

Total bonus for financial performance

Weighting %

Actual %

40.0
30.0
15.0

85.0

8
–
–

8

The following table summarises performance against target for each of the financial objectives.

Measure

Definition

Performance targets

Actual performance

Group basic PBT

PBT is defined as profit before tax, 
exceptional items, amortisation of 
acquired intangibles and 
transaction costs.

It is measured against budget on a 
constant currency basis to remove 
foreign exchange translation impacts. 
It excludes the impact of unbudgeted 
acquisitions and disposals.

Stretch PBT

The stretch PBT measure is the Group 
basic PBT including the contribution of 
unbudgeted acquisitions and deposits.

Budget PBT was $142.5 million and if achieved, 
leads to a pay-out of the relevant Group basic 
PBT bonus.

Threshold performance equates to $136.8 
million or 96% of budget PBT. No portion of 
basic bonus is paid where actual PBT is at or 
below threshold performance. 20% of the 
potential group PBT bonus pays out when 
actual reaches 96% of budget, and then 
ratchets up to reach 100% pay-out when 100% 
of Group PBT budget is achieved.

Payment for performance between threshold 
and budget is on a pro-rata basis.

Achievement of stretch PBT bonus requires 
PBT of 115% of budget or $163.9 million.

Payment between budget and stretch 
performance is on a pro-rata basis.

Reported PBT excluding currency 
impacts was $137.2 million. 
Excluding unbudgeted acquisitions 
and disposals gives PBT for bonus 
purposes of $136.8 million. As the 
results were 4% under budget (or 
96% of target), this resulted in 20% 
of the bonus % attributed to Group 
basic PBT being achieved. 

Including the net impact of 
acquisitions and disposals during 
the year results in a PBT of $137.2 
million. As this is under the 100% 
threshold, no stretch bonus 
is payable.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

83

Directors’ Remuneration Report 
(continued)

Discussion of Individual Remuneration Elements (continued)
Measure

Definition

Performance targets

Group cash flow

Cash flow is defined as net cash inflow 
from operating activities less capital 
expenditure and excludes exceptional 
items, transaction costs, interest and 
tax. Cash flow generated by 
acquisitions is excluded from the actual 
cash flow performance.

The Group’s cash flow target is based on 
budgeted cash flow of $90.2 million. Threshold 
performance equates to 95% of budgeted cash 
flow. No bonus is paid if actual cash flow is at or 
below threshold target.

100% of bonus is paid if budget cash flow is 
reached or exceeded.

Payment between threshold and budget 
performance is on a pro-rata basis.

Actual performance

Actual cash flow of $69.4 million 
($71.2 million operating cash flows 
less capex, less $1.8 million from 
acquisitions) did not meet the 
budget target of $90.2 million. 
Accordingly, none of this element 
of the bonus was achieved.

Non-financial performance
15% of the annual bonus for each executive director was based on the achievement of personal objectives. These objectives include the 
achievement of operational goals, the executive’s contribution to Group strategy as a member of the Board, and specific goals related to their 
functional role. 2018 objectives were set for each executive at the beginning of the financial year, and performance against these objectives was 
assessed by the Committee at its November 2018 meeting. 

In the case of Brendan McAtamney, personal objectives included the appointment and transition of a new Chief Financial Officer to succeed Alan 
Ralph, the evaluation and acquisition of appropriate businesses that would add shareholder value, the creation of synergies across recently-
acquired assets, and the achievement of underlying growth-related targets. The Committee assessed performance against these objectives and 
judged that a strong performance had been achieved with respect to the Chief Financial Officer appointment and management of the transition. 
In relation to M&A, a number of potential acquisitions had been evaluated and two of these had been delivered. While synergies (including 
cross-selling opportunities) had been created, the growth-related target was not achieved. The Committee therefore recommended 10% of the 
15% bonus allocable to personal objectives should be payable. 

In the case of Alan Ralph, personal objectives included the management of Future Fit on time and on budget, supporting the Chief Financial 
Officer transition, and the achievement of underlying growth-related targets. The Committee noted that the Chief Financial Officer transition  
had been smooth. However, the Future Fit project suffered delays in implementation which had also resulted in some additional costs and the 
underlying growth-related target was not achieved. The Committee therefore recommended 5% of the 15% bonus should be payable.

In the case of Nigel Clerkin, personal objectives included the familiarisation with key stakeholders internally and externally and the successful 
transitioning of activities from Alan Ralph. The Committee judged that these objectives had been achieved and recommended that a pro-rata 
bonus be paid to Nigel based on time served. The Committee therefore recommended that 15% bonus should be payable on a pro-rata basis. 

Total bonus payable
The total bonus payable is therefore 18% of maximum for Brendan McAtamney, 13% of maximum for Alan Ralph, and 23% of maximum for Nigel 
Clerkin. The Committee considers that this level of bonus payout is a fair reflection of the performance achieved during the year and the value 
created for shareholders.

Bonus for the year ending 30 September 2019
For the year ending 30 September 2019, the maximum bonus opportunity for the executive directors remains at 100% of base salary and is based 
on the same balance of financial and non-financial performance measures as for FY2018. The bonus opportunity for on-target performance will 
continue to be 70% of maximum. 

Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
The LTIP was approved by shareholders at the Company’s 2010 AGM. As noted above, the Company’s current share plans expire in 2020. We 
have reviewed these share plans to reflect current corporate governance guidelines, established best practice and also to provide the Company 
with sufficient flexibility to compete effectively for talent now and in the future. These share plans will be put forward for approval by 
shareholders at the AGM in January 2019.

84

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Award for which the year to 30 September 2018 was the last year of the performance period
The following table sets out details in respect of the 2015 LTIP Awards, for which the final year of performance was the year to 30 September 2018. 

Targets for performance period (1 October 2015 to 30 September 2018)

Performance against targets

TSR performance 
(50% of award)

TSR measured against constituents of the FTSE 250 Index 
Vesting schedule for first 75% for Brendan McAtamney and Alan Ralph 
and first 50% for Chris Corbin:
Below median = 0%
At median = 25%
Upper quartile = 100%
Pro-rating between points

Vesting schedule for final 25% for Brendan McAtamney and Alan Ralph 
and final 50% for Chris Corbin:
This portion of the LTIP award is subject to the same vesting schedule 
as above. Additionally, vesting of this element of the TSR award is 
subject to the following underpin:

•  adjusted diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS) growth of not less than 

5% per annum compounded over the performance period.

The relative TSR performance over the three-year 
period was externally measured as being at the 
75th percentile, and in relation to adjusted diluted 
EPS growth, FY2015 EPS of €28.77 cents 
compounded by 5% for three-years and converted 
to US dollars (based on an exchange rate of 
0.8403 for FY2018) equals $41.61. Actual EPS for 
FY2018 is $45.94 and therefore exceeded the 
underpin. Accordingly, 100% of this element of the 
award will vest. Awards are subject to a two-year 
holding period and will be delivered to participants 
in December 2020 and February 2021.

Aggregate cash 
flow performance 1 
(50% of award)

Company’s aggregate cash flow performance (PBIT to cash 
conversion rate)
Percentage PBIT to cash conversion rate vesting schedule:
Below 80% = 0%
At 80% = 25%
100% or above = 100%
Pro-rating between points

The PBIT conversion rate was 91% over the 
three-year period, and aggregate cash generation 
was $350 million. Accordingly, 67% of this element 
of the award will vest.

Vesting under the cash flow element is also contingent on an aggregate 
minimum cash flow generation by the Company of $302 million over 
the performance period.

Total

84% of awards will vest and become exercisable 
in December 2020 and February 2021.

1 

In line with the plan rules, for the purposes of assessing the level of LTIP awards that should vest, the impact of exceptional items and amortisation of acquired intangible assets has been 
excluded within both PBIT and cash flow for calculation purposes. For the purposes of assessing the achievement of the minimum cash flow generation target over the performance 
period, actual cash generation during this period has been adjusted by eliminating cash generated from acquisitions completed after the target level of $302 million had been set. 
Similarly, cash generated has also been adjusted in respect of disposals completed after the target level of $302 million had been set. 

LTIP awards made during the year to 30 September 2018
The following table sets out details of LTIP awards made during the year to 30 September 2018. 

Brendan McAtamney

102,038

5 December 2017

8.55

872

25

100

Number of options

Date of award

Share price at 
date of grant 
£

Face value £’000 

Threshold vesting 
% 

Maximum vesting 
%

The above award is subject to performance over the three-year period to 30 September 2020. The award is then subject to a further two-year 
holding period and the vested portion will be delivered in December 2022. The award is in the form of nominal value share options over ordinary 
shares with an exercise price of €0.05 per share. 

The market value of the options granted to Brendan McAtamney (number of options multiplied by the share price at the date of grant) equated 
to 150% of his base salary. None of Alan Ralph, Chris Corbin nor Nigel Clerkin received an LTIP award during the year ending 30 September 2018.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

85

Directors’ Remuneration Report 
(continued)

Discussion of Individual Remuneration Elements (continued)
The following table sets out details of performance measures in respect of the LTIP awards granted during the year.

TSR performance (50% of award)

Targets for performance period (1 October 2017 to 30 September 2020)

TSR measured against the FTSE 250 Index 
Vesting schedule for first 75% of the TSR award: 
Below median = 0% 
At median = 25% 
Upper quartile = 100% 
Pro-rating between points 

Vesting schedule for final 25% of the TSR award:
This portion of the LTIP award is subject to the same vesting schedule as above. Additionally, vesting  
of this element of the TSR award is subject to the following underpin: 

•  adjusted diluted Earnings per Share (EPS) growth of not less than 5% per annum compounded  

over the performance period.

Aggregate cash flow performance 1 
(50% of award)

Company’s aggregate cash flow performance (PBIT to cash conversion rate)
Percentage PBIT to cash conversion rate vesting schedule:
Below 80% = 0% 
At 80% = 25% 
100% or above = 100% 
Pro-rating between points

Vesting under the cash flow element is also contingent on an aggregate minimum cash flow generation  
by the Company of $397.2 million over the performance period.

1 

In line with the plan rules, for the purposes of assessing the level of LTIP awards that should vest, the impact of exceptional items and amortisation of acquired intangible assets will be 
excluded within both PBIT and cash flow for calculation purposes. For the purposes of assessing the achievement of the minimum cash flow generation target, cash flows from 
acquisitions shall be excluded and the target shall also be adjusted in respect of lost cash flows from disposals.

The proportion of awards that do not meet the performance criteria will lapse on the scheduled vesting date.

LTIP awards during the year to 30 September 2019
Award levels will be set at 150% of base salary in the case of both Brendan McAtamney and Nigel Clerkin. The Committee has determined  
150% of salary to be the appropriate level of award given the Group’s ambitious growth plans over the next three to five years and the award  
sizes at the Company’s comparators in the FTSE 250. It is intended that performance targets for LTIP awards to be granted during the year to 
30 September 2019 will continue to be based on the same performance conditions as outlined above. The performance period will be the three 
years to 30 September 2021 and awards meeting their vesting criteria will vest on the fifth anniversary of their grant.

Pensions
Irish and UK tax legislation impose penalty taxes on annual pension contributions and increases in pension fund values accruing to individual 
employees where proscribed maximum amounts are exceeded. The Committee has previously determined that impacted executive directors 
could either continue to accrue pension benefits as previously entitled, or alternatively, accept pension benefits limited by the prescribed 
maximum amounts and receive or accrue a supplementary taxable non-pensionable allowance equal to the cost to the Company of the pension 
benefit foregone. The amount of the allowance awarded to each director has been set by the Committee such that there is no additional cost to 
the Company from the arrangement.

As previously noted, Chris Corbin is a member of a defined contribution scheme with contributions capped at the permitted level under UK tax 
legislation and the alternative arrangements referred to above were accepted by Chris Corbin with effect from 5 April 2011. Over his tenure with 
UDG Healthcare, the Company has accrued pension for Chris Corbin up to the permitted level of £750,000. Since reaching the permitted level, 
the Group has accrued a supplementary taxable non-pensionable allowance equal to the cost of the pension contribution foregone. The 
combined cost of these arrangements was £73,000 in 2018. As noted above, Chris Corbin ceased to be an executive director on 2 July 2018,  
at which time the provision of such supplementary taxable non-pensionable allowances ceased and arrangements were made to transfer the 
accrued pension benefit amount to Chris in July 2018. 

All pension benefits are determined solely in relation to base salary. Fees paid to non-executive directors are not pensionable.

Brendan McAtamney and Nigel Clerkin both receive a taxable, non-pensionable cash allowance of 25% of base salary.

86

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Alan Ralph participated in a defined benefit pension plan, which accrued annually to provide up to 55% of his final pensionable salary at 
retirement. This plan was closed to future accrual in December 2015. Since January 2016, Alan has received a taxable non-pensionable cash 
allowance in lieu of pension of 25% of base salary. In 2018, the amount included in the single figure in relation to this cash allowance 
was €110,388. 

On 26 September 2018, Alan accepted an offer made to all members of the defined benefit pension plan to transfer his accrued benefit from  
the defined benefit plan to a privately managed arrangement at a value of 125% of transfer value. There was no increase in his accrued pension 
entitlement from 1 October 2017 to the date of transfer, with the accumulated accrued pension standing at €91,008 per annum as at the date  
of transfer and based on a normal retirement date of 18 September 2029.

The normal retirement date of each executive director is their 60th birthday. In the event that a director retires before their 60th birthday and 
receives an immediate pension, their pension entitlement shall be reduced on an actuarial basis to reflect earlier payment.

Additional Information
Fees from external appointments
The executive directors are permitted to retain for their own benefit fees they receive from any external non-executive directorships. Brendan 
McAtamney has served as a non-executive director of Scapa Group plc since 1 February 2018. During the period from 1 February to 
30 September 2018, he received fees of £28,000.

Payments to Former Directors
Save as set out in this section, there were no payments to former directors during the year.

Payments for Loss of Office
Save as set out in this section, there were no payments for loss of office during the year.

Transition Arrangements for Chris Corbin and Alan Ralph
Chris Corbin stepped down from his role as Executive Chairman of Ashfield and assumed a non-executive director role on 2 July 2018. For the 
period from 1 October 2017 to 2 July 2018, he continued to be paid his salary and regular benefits and, as noted at page 82 above, received the 
amount of £227,628 upon his retirement, being the amount that he would have been entitled to under pre-existing employment arrangements. 
Upon his retirement, Chris ceased to be eligible for a bonus for FY2018. Subject to performance assessment at the normal time being met, his 
outstanding LTIP awards will continue to vest on their respective vesting dates. He did not receive an LTIP award for FY2018 and will receive no 
further awards. Chris will continue to have the use of a company car until the pre-existing lease expires in July 2019 and health benefits coverage 
continues until its expiry in March 2019. 

In the case of Alan Ralph, Alan stepped down from the Board on 15 May 2018. For the period from 16 May 2018 to 30 September 2018 (and 
through to 30 November 2018), Alan continued to be paid his salary and regular benefits and to be eligible to receive a bonus based on his 
performance against financial and non-financial objectives for the year to 30 September 2018. Upon stepping down from his executive director 
role, Alan Ralph will not be eligible for a bonus for his time with the Company in FY2019. Subject to performance assessment at the normal time 
being met, his outstanding LTIP awards will continue to vest on their respective vesting dates. He did not receive an LTIP award for FY2018 and 
will receive no further awards. 

Minimum Shareholding Requirements
The Committee has adopted guidelines for executive directors to retain substantial long-term share ownership. These guidelines specify that 
executive directors should, over a period of five years from the date of appointment, build up and then retain a shareholding in the Company with 
a valuation at least equal to 100% of their annual base salary. 

The table below sets out the percentage of base salary held in shares in the Company by each executive director as at 30 September 2018.

Value of Shareholdings as % of Base Salary
Below is set out the value of executive directors’ shareholdings as a percentage of annual base salary.

Chris Corbin
Alan Ralph
Brendan McAtamney
Nigel Clerkin

Number 
of Shares

609,481
83,100
115,000
40,000

30 September 2018  
Share Price  
£

Value of  
Shareholding  
£

30 September 2018  
Salary (or last applicable 
salary where relevant) 1

6.81
6.81
6.81
6.81

4,150,566
565,911
783,150 
272,400

£311,657
€441,550 
€663,000
€475,000

% of base  
Salary 2

1,332%
145%
133%
65%

Amounts have been converted to euro at the average exchange rate for the year of 0.8849.

1 
2  Brendan McAtemney has met the shareholding guideline. Nigel Clerkin has acquired 65% of the shareholding guideline as at the date of this report, and has until 30 April 2023 to meet the 

shareholding guideline. 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

87

Directors’ Remuneration Report 
(continued)

Non-Executive Directors’ Remuneration
Non-executive directors’ fees are set at a level to attract individuals with broad international, commercial and other relevant experience and 
reward them for fulfilling the relevant role. 

Non-executive directors receive a basic fee for their role and membership of a Committee. Non-executives who serve as chair of one or more 
Committees are entitled to an additional fee. Membership of multiple Committees does not accrue any additional fee. Non-executive directors 
who travel to/from meetings from Europe receive an additional €500 travel allowance per trip and those travelling to/from the US receive an 
additional €1,000 per trip. The Senior Independent non-executive Director (‘SID’) is also entitled to an additional fee of €10,000 per annum.

In addition to the basic fee of €66,300, Peter Gray received a fee of €142,800 in respect of his role as Chairman (i.e., total fees of €209,100 in 
FY2018).

Following a review of the fees of the non-executive directors and the Chairman in November and 2018, a 2% increase was agreed in each case. 
This increase will be effective from 1 January 2019. 

Non-executive directors’ fees:

Basic fee (including Committee membership)
Chairman’s fee (including basic fee)
Committee chair 1
SID fee

From 1 January 
2019
€

From 1 January 
2018
€

67,626
 213,282
15,300
10,200

66,300
209,100
15,000
10,000

1 

This is an additional fee payable to the Chairs of the Audit, Remuneration, and Risk, Investment & Financing Committee. Peter Gray is Chair of the Nominations & Governance Committee 
and does not receive a separate fee in respect of this role. 

Directors’ Shareholding and Share Interests (Audited)
Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
Details of outstanding share awards, with performance conditions, granted to directors under the LTIP are set out below. 

Number of shares under award

At  
1 October 
2017

Granted 
during the 
year 1

Exercised 
during the 
year

Lapsed 
during the 
year 

At 
30 September 
2018

Market price 
at date of 
award

Exercise 
price 
€

Market price 
at date of 
vesting

Date of 
award

Vesting date

Expiry date

Chris Corbin

Brendan McAtamney

Alan Ralph

77,212
77,772
54,884 2

209,868

93,911
92,041
57,954 2
77,354 2
122,180

–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–
102,038

443,440

102,038

87,973
86,220
54,289 2
54,242

282,724

–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–
–

–

77,212
77,772
54,884

209,868

93,911
92,041
57,954
77,354
122,180
102,038

545,478

–
–
–
15,068 3

87,973
86,220
54,289
39,174

15,068

267,656

£3.73
£3.78
£5.52

0.05
0.05
0.05

n/a
n/a
n/a

28.02.14
17.12.14
03.12.15

28.02.19
17.12.19
03.12.20

27.02.21
16.12.21
02.12.22

£3.73
£3.78
£5.52
£5.12
£6.72
£8.55

£3.73
£3.78
£5.52
£6.72

0.05
0.05
0.05
0.05
0.05
0.05

0.05
0.05
0.05
0.05

n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a

28.02.14
17.12.14
03.12.15
05.02.16
07.12.16
05.12.17

28.02.19
17.12.19
03.12.20
05.02.21
06.12.21
05.12.22

27.02.21
16.12.21
02.12.22
04.02.23
06.12.23
05.12.24

n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a

28.02.14
17.12.14
03.12.15
07.12.16

28.02.19
17.12.19
03.12.20
06.12.21

27.02.21
16.12.21
02.12.22
06.12.23

1  Details regarding the grant of awards to directors during the year to 30 September 2018 are set out on page 85.
2  Denotes the 2015 LTIP Awards. Post 30 September 2018, and following a performance assessment, the Committee determined that 84% of the 2015 LTIP Awards would vest,  

and accordingly, that 16% of the shares subject to these awards would lapse in due course.
In connection with Alan Ralph’s retirement, this award was time-apportioned and the relevant number of shares subject to these awards lapsed.

3 

88

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report s.305 CA 2014
For the purposes of Section 305 of the Companies Act 2014 (Ireland), the aggregate gains by directors on the exercise of share options during 
the year ended 30 September 2018 was €0.00 (2017: €205,797).

Directors’ Interests in Share Capital (Audited)
The beneficial interests, including family interests, of the directors and secretary in office at 30 September 2018 in the ordinary share capital  
of the Company are detailed below. 

Chris Brinsmead
Nigel Clerkin
Chris Corbin
Peter Gray
Myles Lee 1
Brendan McAtamney
Nancy Miller-Rich
Erik van Snippenberg
Alan Ralph
Lisa Ricciardi
Philip Toomey
Linda Wilding
Damien Moynagh (Company Secretary)

30 September 
2018  
Ordinary shares

12,500
40,000
609,481
114,000
4,000
115,000
–
–
83,100
16,000
84,334
19,304
–

1 October 2017  
(or date of 
appointment  
if later) 
Ordinary shares

12,500
–
1,739,481
100,000
–
80,000
–
–
170,688
16,000
84,334
19,304
–

1  On 27 November 2018 Myles Lee purchased 6,000 Ordinary shares in the Company. 

There were no other changes in the above Directors and Secretary’s interests between 30 September 2018 and 3 December 2018.

The directors and secretary have no beneficial interests in any Group subsidiary or joint venture undertakings.

Statement of Shareholder Voting
The Company is committed to ongoing shareholder dialogue and takes shareholder views into consideration when formulating remuneration 
policy and practice. To the extent there are substantial numbers of votes against resolutions in relation to directors’ remuneration, the Company 
will seek to understand the reasons for any such vote and will provide details of any actions in response to such a vote. 

The following tables set out the actual votes at the 2018 AGM in respect of the Directors’ Remuneration Report and the actual votes at the 2017 
AGM in relation to Directors’ Remuneration Policy. 

Directors’ Remuneration Report

Number of votes (millions)
Percentage %

Directors’ Remuneration Policy

Number of votes (millions)
Percentage %

For

154.1
99.1

For

143.3
98.4

Against

Withheld 1 

1.4
0.9

0.05
– 

Against

Withheld 1 

2.3
1.6

11.5
– 

1 

A vote withheld is not a vote in law and is not counted in the calculation of the percentage votes for and against a resolution.

Remuneration Committee 
The following table details the members of the Committee, their attendance at meetings held during the year to 30 September 2018 and their tenure. 

Member

Linda Wilding (Chair)
Chris Brinsmead
Peter Gray 1
Lisa Ricciardi 1
Philip Toomey

Number of meetings held 
when director was a member

Number of 
meetings attended

Committee 
tenure

5
5
5
5
5

4 years
7 years
5 years
4 years
9 years

1 

Peter Gray was unable to join the meeting on 24 July 2018 due to travel. Lisa Ricciardi was unable to join the meeting on 25 September 2018 due to prior engagement. In each case,  
the Chair had the opportunity to discuss agenda items with the individual in advance.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

89

Directors’ Remuneration Report 
(continued)

The Committee’s responsibilities include:
•  setting, reviewing and recommending to the Board the remuneration policy for executive directors and certain other senior executives;
•  setting, reviewing and approving the remuneration arrangements of executive directors and senior executives; and
•  reviewing and approving the rules of any incentive plans subject to final approval by the Board and shareholders.

External Advisors
The Committee seeks and considers advice from independent remuneration advisors where appropriate. During 2012, following a review 
process, the Committee appointed Deloitte LLP to provide advice on compensation and remuneration matters including advice on best practice 
market developments. During the year to 30 September 2018, fees payable to Deloitte in respect of services which materially assisted the 
Committee amounted to £14,350. These fees were charged on a time and expenses basis. Deloitte is one of the founding members of the 
Remuneration Consultants’ Code of Conduct and adheres to this Code in its dealings. The Committee is satisfied that the advice provided by 
Deloitte is objective and independent. The Committee is comfortable that the Deloitte engagement team that provide remuneration advice to  
the Committee do not have connections with UDG Healthcare that may impair their independence.

During the year, the Group also received advice and services from Deloitte in respect of consulting services. The Committee is satisfied that the 
provision of these services does not constitute a conflict of interest. 

Performance Graph and Table
The table below summarises the single figure of total remuneration for the Chief Executive for the past ten years as well as how the actual awards 
under the annual bonus and LTIP compare to their respective maximum opportunity. 

2018
2017
2016 1

2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

Chief Executive

Brendan McAtamney
Brendan McAtamney
Brendan McAtamney
Liam FitzGerald
Liam FitzGerald
Liam FitzGerald
Liam FitzGerald
Liam FitzGerald
Liam FitzGerald
Liam FitzGerald
Liam FitzGerald

Single figure of total 
remuneration 
€’000

Annual bonus 
award against 
maximum opportunity

LTIP award 
against maximum 
opportunity

1,995
2,306
1,265
683
2,509
2,371
1,709
1,697
1,223
1,342
1,884

18.0%
75.0%
74.0%
81.2%
70.2%
71.6%
20.0%
90.0%
89.8%
77.5%
0%

84.0%
100%
100%
100%
100%
89.2%
95.5%
62.5%
0% 2
0% 2
89.8%

1 

2 

Liam FitzGerald was CEO until 1 February 2016. Brendan McAtamney was appointed as Group CEO from 2 February 2016. For 2016, Brendan McAtamney participated in the 2010 LTIP. 
Liam FitzGerald also participated in the 2010 LTIP in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 financial years. Details on the vesting performance of awards under this plan are set out on pages 85 and 
86. In relation to the single figure of total remuneration, both Liam FitzGerald and Brendan McAtamney’s amounts have been pro-rated for their period of service as CEO.
For the 2011 and 2010 financial years, Liam FitzGerald participated in the ESOS. Awards under this scheme did not meet their performance targets in respect of either financial year. 

The Company became a member of the FTSE 250 Index on 24 December 2012 and the Committee believes that this is the most appropriate 
index against which to compare the performance of the Company (prior to this the Company had its primary listing on the Irish Stock Exchange). 
The chart below compares the performance of the Company relative to the FTSE 250 Index over the ten-year period to 30 September 2018.

Value (£)

400

350

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

30 Sep 08

30 Sep 09

30 Sep 10

30 Sep 11

30 Sep 12

30 Sep 13

30 Sep 14

30 Sep 15

30 Sep 16

30 Sep 17

30 Sep 18

  FTSE 250 

  UDG Healthcare

This graph shows the value of £100 invested in UDG Healthcare plc on 30 September 2008 compared with the value of £100 invested in the FTSE 250.
Values at each year-end date are calculated on a 3-month average basis. 

Source: Thomson Reuters

90

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Percentage Change in Total Remuneration of CEO Versus Average Employee
Details of the percentage change in the total remuneration of the Chief Executive relative to employees across the Group as at 30 September 
2018 are set out below.

Total %

Chief Executive
Average employee 1

2018

(13.5)% 
10.7%

1 

The increase in average employee remuneration is a reflection of currency movements, a change in employee mix arising from acquisitions and disposals, and the broad geographic 
spread of employees across 26 countries.

Relative Spend on Pay
The following table sets out the percentage change in adjusted profit before tax, dividends and overall expenditure on pay (as a whole across the 
organisation). Both profit and expenditure on pay have been impacted by changes in foreign exchange translation rates, between 2017 and 2018.

Adjusted profit before tax
Dividends 
Overall expenditure on pay

2018  
$’000

138,815
34,705
614,181

2017  
$’000

118,928 
31,279
511,108

Change

16.7%
11.0%
20.2%

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

91

Report of the Directors

The directors present their report and audited financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2018.

Non-Financial Reporting Statement
In compliance with the European Union (Disclosure of Non-Financial and Diversity Information by certain large undertakings and groups) 
Regulations 2017, the table below is designed to help stakeholders navigate to the relevant sections in this annual report to understand UDG’s 
approach to these non-financial matters:

Reporting Requirements

Our Policies

Page references

Policies

Environmental matters

•  Environmental Sustainability 

page 50

Although the risks associated with 
environmental matters are actively monitored, 
UDG do not believe these risks meet the 
threshold of a principal risk for our business.

Social and Employee matters

•  Diversity, Equality and Inclusion 
•  Driver Safety Management
•  Health and Safety 
•  Whistleblowing 
•  Conflicts of Interest 

pages 51 – 55
Confidential Reporting 
Procedures – page 76

For employee matters Talent Management is 
one of our principal risks. Please refer to page 
28 for more details.

Human Rights

•  Anti-Modern Slavery

page 51

Anti-bribery and Corruption

•  Code of Conduct
•  Compliance 
•  Anti-Bribery

page 58

Description of the  
business model

Non-Financial key  
performance indicators

Please refer to pages 12 and 13 

Please refer to page 24

Although the risks associated with human rights 
abuses are actively monitored, UDG do not 
believe these risks meet the threshold of a 
principal risk for our business.

Although the risks associated with bribery and 
corruption are actively monitored, UDG do not 
believe these risks meet the threshold of a 
principal risk for our business.

Dividends
An interim dividend of $4.25 cent (2017: $3.58 cent) per share was paid on 26 June 2018. Subject to shareholder approval at the Company’s 
AGM, it is proposed to pay a final dividend of $11.75 cent (2017: $9.72 cent) per share on 4 February 2019, to ordinary shareholders on the 
Company’s register at 5.00 p.m. on 11 January 2019, thereby giving a total dividend for the year of $16.00 cent (2017: $13.30 cent) per share. 

Board of Directors
Nigel Clerkin was appointed as an executive director on 15 May 2018. Erik van Snippenberg was appointed as a non-executive director on 2 July 
2018. Details of the Board and Committee composition are set out on pages 60 and 61.

In accordance with the recommendation contained in the 2016 UK Corporate Governance Code, the Board has adopted the practice of annual 
re-election for all directors, unless a director is stepping down from the Board.

Company Listing and Share Price
At 30 September 2018, the Company’s shares were listed solely on the London Stock Exchange. The price of the Company’s shares ranged 
between £6.31 and £9.59, with an average price of £8.42, during the year ended 30 September 2018. The share price at the end of the 2018 
financial year was £6.81 and the market capitalisation of the Group was £1.7 billion. 

Substantial Interests
The Company has received notification of the following interests of 3% or more in its ordinary share capital:

Fidelity Management & Research
Allianz Global Investors GmbH
Kabouter Management
Blackrock
Vanguard Group

* 

23 November is the last practicable date to verify interests before printing this report. 

92

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

At 23 November 2018*

At 28 September 2018

Ordinary  
shares number

22,337,376
21,666,815
13,479,303
11,393,602
9,478,230

% of issued share 
capital (excluding 
treasury shares)

8.98
8.71
5.42
4.58
3.81

Ordinary  
shares number

22,337,376
21,492,144
12,720,343
11,098,115
8,956,554

% of issued share 
capital (excluding 
treasury shares)

8.98%
8.64%
5.11%
4.46%
3.60%

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report These entities have indicated that the shareholdings are not ultimately beneficially owned by them.

Authority to Allot Shares and Disapplication of Pre-emption Rights
At the AGM held on 29 January 2018, the directors received the authority from shareholders to allot shares up to an aggregate nominal value 
representing approximately one-third of the issued share capital of the Company and the power to disapply the statutory pre-emption provisions 
relating to the issue of new equity for cash. The disapplication is limited to the allotment of shares in connection with the exercise of share 
options, any rights issue, any open offer or other offer to shareholders and the allotment of shares up to an aggregate nominal value representing 
approximately 5% of the issued share capital of the Company. The directors also received authority to allot up to 10% of the issued share capital 
of the Company if the issue was related to an acquisition.

These authorities are due to expire at the Company’s 2019 AGM. Consequently, at the forthcoming AGM, shareholders will be asked to renew 
these authorities until the date of the Company’s AGM to be held in 2020 or the date 15 months after this forthcoming AGM, whichever is 
the earlier.

Purchase of Own Shares
At the AGM held on 29 January 2018, authority was granted to the Company, or any of its subsidiaries, to purchase a maximum aggregate of 10% 
of the Company’s shares.

Special resolutions will be proposed at the Company’s 2019 AGM to renew the authority of the Company, or any of its subsidiaries, to purchase 
up to 10% of the issued share capital of the Company and in relation to the maximum and minimum prices at which treasury shares (effectively 
shares purchased and not cancelled) may be re-issued off-market by the Company. If granted, the authorities will expire on the earlier of the date 
of the Company’s AGM in 2020 or the date 15 months after this forthcoming AGM.

The directors will only exercise the power to purchase shares if they consider it to be in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders  
as a whole.

Takeover Directive 
The Group’s principal banking and loan note facilities include provisions that, in the event of a change of control of the Company, the Group 
could be obliged to repay the facilities together with penalties. Certain client and supplier contracts and joint venture arrangements also contain 
change of control provisions. Additionally, the Company’s Long Term Incentive Plan and Employee Share Option Plan contain change of control 
provisions which potentially allow for the acceleration of the exercisability of awards in the event that a change of control occurs with respect to 
the Company.

Political Donations
No political donations which require disclosure in accordance with the Electoral Acts 1997 to 2012 were made by the Group during the year.

Accounting Records
The directors believe that they have complied with the requirements of Sections 281 to 285 of the Companies Act 2014 with regard to maintaining 
adequate accounting records by employing accounting personnel with appropriate expertise and by providing adequate resources to the finance 
function. The accounting records of the Company are maintained at the Company’s registered office, 20 Riverwalk, Citywest Business Campus, 
Citywest, Dublin 24, Ireland.

Auditor
The appointment of Ernst & Young as the Company’s External Auditor was approved by shareholders on 7 February 2017. The re-appointment  
of Ernst & Young for the year ending 30 September 2019 will be subject to shareholder approval at the AGM to be held on 29 January 2019.

Disclosure of Information to the Auditor
Each of the directors individually confirms that:
• 
• 

in so far as they are aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company’s auditor is unaware; and
they have taken all the steps that they ought to have taken as a director in order to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information 
and to establish that the Company’s auditor is aware of such information.

Annual General Meeting
The AGM of the Company will be held on 29 January 2019. Your attention is drawn to the letter to shareholders and the Notice of AGM available 
on the Company’s website, www.udghealthcare.com, which sets out details of the matters which will be considered at the meeting.

Memorandum and Articles of Association
The Company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association set out the objects and powers of the Company and may be amended by a special 
resolution passed by the shareholders at a general meeting of the Company.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

93

Report of the Directors 
(continued)

Corporate Governance
UDG Healthcare plc is an Irish registered company and is therefore not subject to the disclosure requirements contained in the UK Companies 
Act 2006 (Strategic Report and Directors’ Report) Regulations 2013.

A summary of the Group’s business model and strategy is set out on pages 12 to 15 and the Group’s sustainability policies and activities are 
summarised on pages 48 to 59.

Directors Compliance Statement 
(Made in accordance with section 225 of the Companies Act, 2014).

The directors acknowledge that they are responsible for securing compliance by UDG Healthcare plc (the ‘Company’) with its relevant 
obligations as are defined in the Companies Act, 2014 (the ‘Relevant Obligations’).

The directors confirm that they have drawn up and adopted a compliance policy statement setting out the Company’s policies that, in the 
directors’ opinion, are appropriate to the Company with respect to compliance by the Company with its relevant obligations. 

The directors further confirm the Company has put in place appropriate arrangements or structures that are, in the directors’ opinion, designed 
to secure material compliance with its relevant obligations including reliance on the advice of persons employed by the Company and external 
legal and tax advisers as considered appropriate from time to time and that they have reviewed the effectiveness of these arrangements or 
structures during the financial year to which this report relates.

Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities
The directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the Group and Company financial statements, in accordance with applicable 
laws and regulations.

Company law requires the directors to prepare Group and Company financial statements each year. Under that law, the directors are required  
to prepare the Group financial statements in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the European Union and have elected to prepare the Company 
financial statements in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the European Union and as applied in accordance with the provisions of the 
Companies Act 2014.

Under company law, the directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the 
assets, liabilities and financial position of the Group and Company and of their profit and loss for that period. In preparing each of the Group and 
Company financial statements, the directors are required to:
•  select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
•  make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
•  state that the financial statements comply with IFRS as adopted by the European Union as applied in accordance with the Companies Act 

2014; and

•  prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Group and the Company will 

continue in business.

The directors are also required by the Transparency (Directive 2004/109/EC) Regulations 2007 and the Transparency Rules of the Central Bank 
of Ireland to include a management report containing a fair review of the business and a description of the principal risks and uncertainties facing 
the Group.

The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy, at any time, the assets, 
liabilities, financial position and profit and loss of the Company, and which enable them to ensure that the financial statements of the Group 
comply with the provisions of the Companies Act 2014. The directors are also responsible for taking all reasonable steps to ensure such records 
are kept by subsidiaries which enable them to ensure that the financial statements of the Group comply with the provisions of the Companies  
Act, 2014. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and the Group, and hence for taking reasonable steps for the 
prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate  
and financial information included on the Group’s and Company’s website (www.udghealthcare.com). Legislation in Ireland concerning the 
preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Responsibility Statement as Required by the Transparency Directive and UK Corporate Governance Code
Each of the directors, whose names and functions are listed on pages 60 and 61 of this Annual Report, confirm that, to the best of each person’s 
knowledge and belief:
•  as required by the Transparency Regulations:

•  The Group financial statements, prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the European Union and, in the case of the Company,  
as applied in accordance with the Companies Act 2014, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position of the Group  
and Company as at 30 September 2018 and of the profit of the Group for the year then ended; 

94

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report •  The Directors’ Report contained in the Annual Report includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and  

the position of the Group and Company, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that they face; and

•  as required by the UK Corporate Governance Code:

•  The Annual Report and financial statements, taken as a whole, provide the information necessary to assess the Group’s performance, 

business model and strategy and is fair, balanced and understandable. 

Other Information
Other information relevant to the Director’s Report may be found in the following sections of the Annual Report:

Information

Location in the Annual Report

Principal activities, business review and future developments

Chairman’s Statement; Chief Executive’s Review; Operations Reviews  
and Finance Review – pages 4 to 35.

Results

Financial Statements – pages 102 to 167.

Corporate Governance

Corporate Governance Report – pages 62 to 69.

Directors’ remuneration, including the interests of the directors  
and secretary in the share capital of the Company

Directors’ Remuneration Report – pages 79 to 91.

Principal Risks and Uncertainties

Principal Risks and Uncertainties – pages 27 to 31.

Principal Key Performance Indicators

Key Performance Indicators – pages 22 to 24.

Financial risk management objectives and policies of the Group  
and the Company

Financial Statements – Note 31.

Company’s capital structure including a summary of the rights and 
obligations attaching to shares

Group Statement of Changes in Equity – page 104; and Financial 
Statements – Notes 18, 20 and 21.

Long Term Incentive Plan, share options and equity settled  
incentive schemes

Directors’ Remuneration Report – pages 79 to 91.

Events after the balance sheet date

Financial Statements – Note 35.

Significant subsidiary undertakings

Financial Statements – Note 45.

The Directors’ Report for the year ended 30 September 2018 comprises these pages and the sections of the Annual Report referred to under 
‘Other information’ above, which are incorporated into the Directors’ Report by reference.

On behalf of the Board

P. Gray
Director

3 December 2018

B. McAtamney
Director

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

95

Independent Auditor’s Report  
to the Members of UDG Healthcare plc

Opinion 
We have audited the financial statements of UDG Healthcare plc (‘the Company’) and its subsidiaries (‘the Group’) for the year ended 
30 September 2018, which comprise the Group Income Statement, Group Statement of Comprehensive Income, Group Statement of Changes  
in Equity, Group Balance Sheet, Group Cash Flow Statement, the Company Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Company Statement of 
Changes in Equity, the Company Balance Sheet and notes forming part of the Group financial statements, including the Significant Accounting 
Policies set out in note 1. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is Irish Law and International Financial 
Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the European Union and, as regards the Company financial statements, as applied in accordance with 
the provisions of the Companies Act 2014. 

In our opinion:
• 

the Group financial statements give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities and financial position of the Group as at 30 September 2018 
and of its profit for the year then ended; 
the Company Balance Sheet gives a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities and financial position of the Company as at 30 September 2018;
the Group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the European Union;
the Company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the European Union as applied in 
accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2014; and
the Group financial statements and Company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with the requirements of the 
Companies Act 2014 and, as regards the Group financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.

• 
• 
• 

• 

Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (Ireland) (‘ISAs (Ireland’)) and applicable law. Our 
responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the financial statements section of 
our report. We are independent of the Group and Company in accordance with ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of financial 
statements in Ireland, including the Ethical Standard as applied to public interest entities issued by the Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory 
Authority (IAASA), and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Overview of our audit approach

Key audit matters

•  Assessment of the carrying value of goodwill.
•  Revenue recognition. 

Audit scope

•  We performed an audit of the complete financial information of 11 (2017: 8) components and audit 

procedures on specific balances for a further 44 (2017: 50) components.

•  The components where we performed full or specific audit procedures accounted for 85% (2017: 88%)  
of Group Profit before Tax before exceptional items, 87% (2017: 94%) of Revenue and 96% (2017: 97%)  
of Total Assets. 

Materiality

•  Overall group materiality of $5.3 million which represents 5% of Group Profit before Tax before exceptional 
items. In our prior year audit, we adopted a materiality of $4.6 million based on 5% of Profit before Tax from 
continuing operations. 

Key audit matters 
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the financial statements of the 
current period and include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) that we identified, including 
those which had the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing the efforts of the 
engagement team. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion 
thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. 

96

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Risk

Our response to the risk

Assessment of the carrying value of goodwill  
(2018: $516.0 million, 2017: $542.6 million)

Refer to the Audit Committee Report (page 74); Accounting 
policies (page 111); and Note 13 of the Group Financial 
Statements (page 127).

The impairment review of goodwill, with a carrying value  
of $516 million, is considered to be a risk area due to the size 
of the balance as well as the fact that it involves significant 
judgement by management. Judgemental aspects include 
assumptions of future profitability, revenue growth, margins, 
and the selection of appropriate discount rates, all of which 
may be subject to management override.

Our team included valuations specialists who 
performed an independent assessment against 
external market data of key inputs used by 
management in calculating appropriate 
discount rates.

We challenged the determination of the Group’s 
eight cash-generating units (CGUs), and flexed our 
audit approach relative to our risk assessment and 
the level of excess of value-in-use over the carrying 
amount in each CGU. For all CGUs selected for 
detailed testing, we corroborated key assumptions 
in the models, in particular growth rates, which we 
compared against historic rates achieved and 
external analyst forecasts.

Key observations communicated 
to the Audit Committee 

Our observations included  
the headroom level by CGU, 
where within an acceptable 
range the calculated value-in-
use for each CGU lay, the 
results of our sensitivity 
analysis, and an analysis of the 
five year forecast EBIT growth 
rate when viewed against the 
prior year impairment model 
and the current year 
actual growth.

We performed a sensitivity analysis on the 
discount rate and the long-term growth rate,  
to assess the level of excess of value-in-use over  
the carrying value in place for each CGU based  
on reasonably possible movements in such 
assumptions.

We considered the adequacy of management’s 
disclosures in respect of impairment testing  
and whether the disclosures appropriately 
communicate the underlying sensitivities.

We performed procedures on revenue at all 
in-scope locations, as outlined in further detail  
in the ‘Tailoring the scope’ section below. 
Detailed transactional testing of revenue 
recognised throughout the year was performed, 
commensurate with the higher audit risk  
assigned to revenue.

Dependent on the nature of the revenue 
recognised at each location, we examined 
supporting documentation including customer 
contracts, statements of works or purchase 
orders, sales invoices, and cash receipts. In 
addition, we performed cut-off procedures, 
revenue journal testing and customer balance 
confirmations. In some locations data analytics 
procedures were also performed.

Particular focus was applied at those locations 
where revenue is determined over time under  
a stage of completion methodology or where 
agent versus principal considerations apply.  
In these circumstances we applied professional 
scepticism when assessing the judgments made 
by management.

Our observations included  
an outline of the range of 
audit procedures performed, 
the key judgments involved, 
the entities where 
management judgement was 
most prevalent and the results  
of our testing.

We also provided our 
assessment of where we 
believe the Group’s revenue 
recognition practices lie within 
a range of acceptable 
outcomes, and the level of 
subjectivity involved in 
revenue related estimates.

Revenue recognition (2018: $1,315.2 million,  
2017: 1,219.8 million)

Refer to the Audit Committee Report (page 74); Accounting 
policies (page 113); and Note 3 of the Group Financial 
Statements (page 117).

The Group generates revenue from a variety of geographies 
and across a large number of separate legal entities spread 
across the Group’s segments. Revenue may be recorded in 
an incorrect period or on a basis that is inconsistent with the 
contractual terms agreed with customers.

Certain of the Group’s revenue streams involve the exercise 
of judgement, in particular the determination of stage of 
completion of individual contracts where their duration 
spans accounting periods. In addition, the Group must 
assess whether it acts as agent or principal in transactions 
and accordingly whether revenue should be recorded on  
a gross or net basis, including the treatment of any rebates 
received. These judgements are important, given the 
significance of revenue as both a growth measure and  
a key determinant of profit in each period.

In the auditor’s report for the year ended 30 September 2017, we identified Accounting for Acquisitions as a Key Audit Matter. This reflected the 
Group completing in that year 6 acquisitions at a total cost of $270.5 million, representing a significant increase over the levels in the previous 
year. As acquisition activity in the current year reduced to 2 acquisitions at a total cost of $87.2 million, we concluded that this matter no longer 
met the criteria to be a Key Audit Matter in the current year.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

97

Independent Auditor’s Report  
to the Members of UDG Healthcare plc (continued)

Our application of materiality 
We apply the concept of materiality in planning and performing the audit, in evaluating the effect of identified misstatements on the audit  
and in forming our audit opinion. 

Materiality
The magnitude of an omission or misstatement that, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to influence the economic 
decisions of the users of the financial statements. Materiality provides a basis for determining the nature and extent of our audit procedures.

We determined materiality for the Group to be $5.3 million, which is approximately 5% of Profit before Tax before exceptional items. In our  
prior year audit, we adopted a materiality of $4.6 million based on 5% of Profit before Tax. Profit before Tax before exceptional items is a key 
performance indicator for the Group and is also a key metric used by the Group in the assessment of the performance of management.  
We therefore considered Profit before Tax before exceptional items to be the most appropriate performance metric on which to base our 
materiality calculation as we consider it to be the most relevant performance measure to the stakeholders of the Group.

During the course of our audit, we reassessed initial materiality and the only change in final materiality was to reflect the actual reported 
performance of the Group in the year.

Performance materiality
The application of materiality at the individual account or balance level. It is set at an amount to reduce to an appropriately low level the 
probability that the aggregate of uncorrected and undetected misstatements exceeds materiality.

On the basis of our risk assessments, together with our assessment of the Group’s overall control environment, our judgement was that 
performance materiality was 50% of our planning materiality, namely $2.64 million. We have set performance materiality at this percentage 
based on our assessment of the risk of misstatements, both corrected and uncorrected. 

Audit work at component locations for the purpose of obtaining audit coverage over significant financial statement accounts is undertaken based 
on a percentage of total performance materiality. The performance materiality set for each component is based on the relative scale and risk of 
the component to the Group as a whole and our assessment of the risk of misstatement at that component. In the current year, the range of 
performance materiality allocated to components was $1.38 million to $0.55 million.

Reporting threshold
An amount below which identified misstatements are considered as being clearly trivial.

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to them all uncorrected audit differences in excess of $264,000, which is set at 5%  
of planning materiality, as well as differences below that threshold that, in our view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.

We evaluate any uncorrected misstatements against both the quantitative measures of materiality discussed above and in light of other relevant 
qualitative considerations in forming our opinion.

An overview of the scope of our audit report
Tailoring the scope
Our assessment of audit risk, our evaluation of materiality and our allocation of performance materiality determine our audit scope for each 
entity within the Group. Taken together, this enables us to form an opinion on the Group financial statements.

In determining those components in the Group at which we perform audit procedures, we utilised size and risk criteria in accordance with 
International Standards on Auditing (Ireland).

In assessing the risk of material misstatement to the Group financial statements, and to ensure we had adequate quantitative coverage of 
significant accounts in the financial statements, of the 158 (2017: 154) reporting components of the Group, we selected 55 (2017: 58) components 
covering entities within Austria, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, the UK and the US, which 
represent the principal business units within the Group.

Of the 55 (2017: 58) components selected, we performed an audit of the complete financial information of 11 (2017: 8) components (“full scope 
components”) which were selected based on their size or risk characteristics. For the remaining 44 (2017: 50) components (“specific scope 
components”), we performed audit procedures on specific accounts within that component that we considered had the potential for the greatest 
impact on the significant accounts in the financial statements either because of the size of these accounts or their risk profile. 

The reporting components where we performed audit procedures accounted for 85% (2017: 88%) of the Group’s Profit before Tax before 
exceptional items, 87% (2017: 94%) of the Group’s Revenue and 96% (2017: 97%) of the Group’s Total Assets. For the current year, the full scope 
components contributed 80% (2017: 84%) of the Group’s Profit before Tax before exceptional items, 65% (2017: 60%) of the Group’s Revenue 
and 43% (2017: 42%) of the Group’s Total Assets. The specific scope component contributed 5% (2017: 4%) of the Group’s Profit before Tax 

98

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report before exceptional items, 22% (2017: 34%) of the Group’s Revenue and 53% (2017: 55%) of the Group’s Total Assets. The audit scope of these 
components may not have included testing of all significant accounts of the component but will have contributed to the coverage of significant 
accounts tested for the Group. 

Of the remaining 103 (2017: 96) components that together represent 15% (2017: 12%) of the Group’s Profit before Tax before exceptional items, 
none are individually greater than 6% (2017: 3%) of the Group’s Profit before Tax before exceptional items. For these components, we performed 
other procedures, including analytical review, testing of consolidation journals and intercompany eliminations, and foreign currency translation 
recalculations to respond to any potential risks of material misstatement to the financial statements. 

The charts below illustrate the coverage obtained from the work performed by our audit teams.

Profit before Tax before exceptional items

Revenue

Total Assets

5%

15%

22%

80%

13%

65%

53%

43%

4%

  Full scope components

  Other procedures

  Full scope components

  Other procedures

  Full scope components

  Other procedures

  Specific scope components

  Specific scope components

  Specific scope components

Involvement with component teams 
In establishing our overall approach to the Group audit, we determined the type of work that needed to be undertaken at each of the 
components by us, as the primary audit engagement team, or by component auditors from other EY global network firms operating under our 
instruction. Of the 11 (2017: 8) full scope components, audit procedures were performed on 1 (2017: 1) of these directly by the primary audit team 
and on 10 (2017: 7) by component audit teams. For the 43 (2017: 45) full scope and specific scope components, where the work was performed 
by component auditors, we determined the appropriate level of involvement to enable us to determine that sufficient audit evidence had been 
obtained as a basis for our opinion on the Group as a whole. 

The Group audit team completed a programme of planned visits which has been designed to ensure that senior members of the Group audit 
team, including the Audit Engagement Partner, visit a number of overseas locations each year. During the current year’s audit cycle, visits were 
undertaken to the component teams in the US. These visits involved discussing the audit approach with the component team and any issues 
arising from their work, meeting with local management and attending planning and closing meetings. The Group audit team interacted regularly 
with the component teams where appropriate during various stages of the audit, reviewed key working papers as deemed necessary and were 
responsible for the scope and direction of the audit process. This, together with the additional procedures performed at Group level, gave us 
appropriate evidence for our opinion on the group financial statements.

Conclusions relating to principal risks, going concern and viability statement
We have nothing to report in respect of the following information in the annual report, in relation to which the ISAs (Ireland) require us to report 
to you whether we have anything material to add or draw attention to:
• 

the disclosures in the annual report set out on pages 27 to 31 that describe the principal risks and explain how they are being managed 
or mitigated;
the directors’ confirmation set out on page 26 in the annual report that they have carried out a robust assessment of the principal risks facing 
the Group and the parent company, including those that would threaten its business model, future performance, solvency or liquidity;
the directors’ statement set out on page 26 in the financial statements about whether they considered it appropriate to adopt the going 
concern basis of accounting in preparing them, and the directors’ identification of any material uncertainties to the Group’s and parent 
company’s ability to continue to do so over a period of at least twelve months from the date of approval of the financial statements;

• 

• 

•  whether the directors’ statement in relation to going concern required under the Listing Rules in accordance with Listing Rule 9.8.6R(3)  

is materially inconsistent with our knowledge obtained in the audit; or 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

99

Independent Auditor’s Report  
to the Members of UDG Healthcare plc (continued)

• 

the directors’ explanation set out on page 26 in the annual report as to how they have assessed the prospects of the Group and the parent 
company, over what period they have done so and why they consider that period to be appropriate, and their statement as to whether they 
have a reasonable expectation that the Group and the parent company will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall 
due over the period of their assessment, including any related disclosures drawing attention to any necessary qualifications or assumptions.

Other information
The directors are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other 
than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, 
except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether  
the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to  
be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether 
there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have 
performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

In this context, we also have nothing to report in regard to our responsibility to specifically address the following items in the other information 
and to report as uncorrected material misstatements of the other information where we conclude that those items meet the following conditions:
•  Fair, balanced and understandable – the statement given by the directors that they consider the annual report and financial statements taken 
as a whole is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess the group and parent 
company’s performance, business model and strategy, is materially inconsistent with our knowledge obtained in the audit; or

•  Audit committee reporting – the section describing the work of the audit committee does not appropriately address matters communicated  

by us to the audit committee or is materially inconsistent with our knowledge obtained in the audit; or

•  Directors’ statement of compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code – the parts of the directors’ statement required under the  
Listing Rules relating to the Company’s compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code containing provisions specified for review  
by the auditor in accordance with Listing Rule 6.8.6 do not properly disclose a departure from a relevant provision of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2014
Based solely on the work undertaken in the course of the audit, we report that: 
• 

in our opinion, the information given in the Directors’ Report, other than those parts dealing with the non-financial statement pursuant to the 
requirements of S.I. No. 360/2017 on which we are not required to report, is consistent with the financial statements; and 
in our opinion, the Directors’ Report, other than those parts dealing with the non-financial statement pursuant to the requirements of S.I. No. 
360/2017 on which we are not required to report, has been prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2014. 

• 

We have obtained all the information and explanations which we consider necessary for the purposes of our audit.

In our opinion the accounting records of the Company were sufficient to permit the financial statements to be readily and properly audited and 
the Company statement of financial position is in agreement with the accounting records.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception
Based on the knowledge and understanding of the group and the parent company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit,  
we have not identified material misstatements in the Directors’ Report, other than those parts dealing with the non-financial statement pursuant 
to the requirements of S.I. No. 360/2017 on which we are not required to report.

The Companies Act 2014 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion, the disclosures of directors’ remuneration and transactions required  
by sections 305 to 312 of the Act are not made. We have nothing to report in this regard. 

Respective responsibilities
Responsibilities of directors for the financial statements 
As explained more fully in the directors’ responsibilities statement set on page 94, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the 
financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as they determine is necessary  
to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. 

In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the Group and the parent company’s ability to continue as a 
going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management 
either intends to liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.

100

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, 
whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance,  
but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (Ireland) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. 
Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected  
to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. 

The objectives of our audit, in respect to fraud, are; to identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements due to 
fraud; to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the assessed risks of material misstatement due to fraud, through designing and 
implementing appropriate responses; and to respond appropriately to fraud or suspected fraud identified during the audit. However, the primary 
responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud rests with both those charged with governance of the entity and management. 

Our approach was as follows: 
•  We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks that are applicable to the Group across the various jurisdictions 
globally in which the Group operates. We determined that the most significant are those that relate to the form and content of external 
financial and corporate governance reporting including company law, tax legislation, employment law and regulatory compliance with 
agencies such as the US Food and Drug Administration. 

•  We understood how UDG Healthcare plc is complying with those frameworks by making enquiries of management, internal audit, those 
responsible for legal and compliance procedures and the company secretary. We corroborated our enquiries through our review of the 
Group’s Compliance Policy, board minutes, papers provided to the audit committee and correspondence received from regulatory bodies.
•  We assessed the susceptibility of the Group’s financial statements to material misstatement, including how fraud might occur, by meeting with 
management, including within various parts of the business, to understand where they considered there was susceptibility to fraud. We also 
considered performance targets and the potential for management to influence earnings or the perceptions of analysts. Where this risk was 
considered to be higher, we performed audit procedures to address each identified fraud risk. These procedures included testing manual 
journals and were designed to provide reasonable assurance that the financial statements were free from fraud or error.

•  Based on this understanding we designed our audit procedures to identify non-compliance with such laws and regulations. Our procedures 

included a review of board minutes to identify any non-compliance with laws and regulations, a review of the reporting to the audit committee 
on compliance with regulations, enquiries of internal general counsel and management. 

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the IAASA’s website at: http://www.iaasa.ie/
getmedia/b2389013-1cf6-458b-9b8f-a98202dc9c3a/Description_of_auditors_responsiblities_for_audit.pdf. This description forms part of our 
auditor’s report.

Other matters which we are required to address
We were appointed by the Audit Committee following the AGM held on 7 February 2017 to audit the financial statements for the year ending 
30 September 2017 and subsequent financial periods. This is our second year of engagement. 

The non-audit services prohibited by IAASA’s Ethical Standard were not provided to the Group or Company and we remain independent of the 
Group and Company in conducting our audit. 

Our audit opinion is consistent with the additional report to the Audit Committee.

The purpose of our audit work and to whom we owe our responsibilities
Our report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance with section 391 of the Companies Act 2014. Our audit work has 
been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for 
no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the 
Company’s members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Breffni Maguire 
for and on behalf of
Ernst & Young Chartered Accountants and Statutory Audit Firm
Dublin
3 December 2018

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

101

Group Income Statement 
for the year ended 30 September 2018

Revenue
Cost of sales

Gross profit
Selling and distribution expenses
Administrative expenses
Other operating expenses
Other operating income
Transaction costs
Share of joint ventures’ profit after tax

Operating profit
Finance income
Finance expense

Profit before tax 
Income tax expense

Profit for the financial year

Profit attributable to:
Owners of the parent
Non-controlling interests

Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share – cent
Diluted earnings per share – cent

On behalf of the Board

P. Gray 
Director 

B. McAtamney
Director

2018

Pre-exceptional 
items 
$’000

Exceptional items 
(Note 9) 
$’000

1,315,186
(927,877)

387,309
(217,475)
(17,250)
(37,037)
–
(2,374)
958

114,131
5,235
(13,926)

105,440
(15,792)

89,648

–
(5,706)

(5,706)
(11,042)
(1,214)
(99,550)
8,882
–
–

(108,630)
11,576
–

(97,054)
11,263

(85,791)

89,586
62

89,648

(85,791)
–

(85,791)

Note

3

29
15

5
6
6

8

23

11
11

Total 
$’000

2017 
$’000

1,315,186
(933,583)

1,219,755
(871,909)

381,603
(228,517)
(18,464)
(136,587)
8,882
(2,374)
958

5,501
16,811
(13,926)

8,386
(4,529)

3,857

3,795
62

3,857

1.53c
1.52c

347,846
(192,536)
(23,313)
(25,450)
–
(4,028)
667

103,186
18,905
(29,257)

92,834
(20,976)

71,858

71,858
–

71,858

28.97c
28.83c

102

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report  
Group Statement of Comprehensive Income 
for the year ended 30 September 2018

Profit for the financial year
Other comprehensive income/(expense):
Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss: 
Remeasurement gain on Group defined benefit schemes
Deferred tax on Group defined benefit schemes:
– Pre-exceptional item
– Exceptional item

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:
Foreign currency translation adjustment
Reclassification on loss of control of subsidiary undertakings
Group cash flow hedges:
– Effective portion of cash flow hedges – movement into reserve
– Effective portion of cash flow hedges – movement out of reserve

Effective portion of cash flow hedges:
– Movement in deferred tax – movement into reserve
– Movement in deferred tax – movement out of reserve

Net movement in deferred tax

Total other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the financial year

Total comprehensive income attributable to:
Owners of the parent
Non-controlling interests

Note

30
28

21
21

21

28

(187)
408

(433)
(3,032)

54
379

(599)
–

(15,271)
14,865

1,909
(1,858)

2018 
$’000

3,857

2,422

221

2,643

(5,466)
33,383

(3,465)

433

24,885

27,528

31,385

31,323
62

31,385

2017 
$’000

71,858

11,098

(599)

10,499

10,109
–

(406)

51

9,754

20,253

92,111

92,111
–

92,111

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

103

Group Statement of Changes in Equity
for the year ended 30 September 2018

At 1 October 2017

14,620

196,496 (166,656) 836,087

880,547

109

880,656

Equity share 
capital 
$’000

Share 
premium 
$’000

Other 
reserves 
(Note 21) 
$’000

Retained 
earnings 
$’000

Attributable 
to owners of 
the parent 
$’000

Non-
controlling 
interests 
$’000

Total equity 
$’000

–

3,795

3,795

62

3,857

Profit for the financial year
Other comprehensive income/(expense):
Effective portion of cash flow hedges
Deferred tax on cash flow hedges 
Translation adjustment
Reclassification on loss of control of subsidiary undertakings
Remeasurement gain on defined benefit schemes
Deferred tax on defined benefit schemes

Total comprehensive income for the year
Transactions with shareholders:
New shares issued
Share-based payment expense 
Dividends paid to equity holders
Release from share-based payment reserve

–

–
–
–
–
–
–

–

23
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–
–

–

(3,465)
433
(5,466)
33,383
–
–

24,885

–
–
–
–
2,422
221

6,438

(3,465)
433
(5,466)
33,383
2,422
221

31,323

1,341
–
–
–

–
6,643
–
(827)

–
–
(34,705)
827

1,364
6,643
(34,705)
–

–
–
–
–
–
–

(3,465)
433
(5,466)
33,383
2,422
221

62

31,385

–
–
–
–

1,364
6,643
(34,705)
–

At 30 September 2018

14,643

197,837

(135,955) 808,647

885,172

171

885,343

for the year ended 30 September 2017 

Equity share 
capital 
$’000

Share 
premium 
$’000

Other 
reserves 
(Note 21) 
$’000

Retained 
earnings 
$’000

Attributable 
to owners of 
the parent 
$’000

Non-
controlling 
interests 
$’000

At 1 October 2016

14,535

187,355

(179,446)  784,432

806,876

Profit for the financial year
Other comprehensive income/(expense):
Effective portion of cash flow hedges
Deferred tax on cash flow hedges
Translation adjustment
Remeasurement gain on defined benefit schemes
Deferred tax on defined benefit schemes

Total comprehensive income for the year
Transactions with shareholders:
New shares issued
Issued in business combination
Share-based payment expense
Dividends paid to equity holders
Release from share-based payment reserve
Non-controlling interests arising on acquisition

–

–
–
–
–
–

–

46
39
–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–

–

–

71,858

71,858

(406)
51
10,109
–
–

–
–
–
11,098
(599)

(406)
51
10,109
11,098
(599)

9,754

82,357

92,111

3,129
6,012
–
–
–
–

–
–
3,613
–
(577)
–

–
–
–
(31,279)
577
–

3,175
6,051
3,613
(31,279)
–
–

At 30 September 2017

14,620

196,496

(166,656)

836,087

880,547

–

–

–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–
109

109

Total equity 
$’000

806,876

71,858

(406)
51
10,109
11,098
(599)

92,111

3,175
6,051
3,613
(31,279)
–
109

880,656

104

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Group Balance Sheet
as at 30 September 2018

ASSETS
Non-current
Property, plant and equipment
Goodwill
Intangible assets
Investment in joint ventures and associates
Derivative financial instruments
Deferred income tax assets
Employee benefits

Total non-current assets

Current
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Current income tax assets
Derivative financial instruments

Total current assets

Total assets

EQUITY
Equity share capital
Share premium
Other reserves
Retained earnings

Equity attributable to owners of the parent
Non-controlling interests

Total equity 

LIABILITIES
Non-current
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Other payables
Provisions
Employee benefits
Deferred income tax liabilities
Derivative financial instruments

Total non-current liabilities

Current
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Trade and other payables
Current income tax liabilities 
Provisions

Total current liabilities

Total liabilities

Total equity and liabilities

On behalf of the Board

P. Gray 
Director 

B. McAtamney
Director

Note

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

12
13
14
15
31
28
30

16
17

31

18
20
21
22

23

24
25
26
30
28
31

24
25

26

179,593
515,954
241,538
9,729
330
5,272
12,935

965,351

31,248
347,192
180,099
793
2,474

561,806

168,403
542,554
227,617
8,838
1,302
4,025
12,379

965,118

55,060
307,388
187,469
2,464
2,450

554,831

1,527,157

1,519,949

14,643
197,837
(135,955)
808,647

885,172
171

885,343

14,620
196,496
(166,656)
836,087

880,547
109

880,656

243,099
5,451
68,900
–
45,225
319

362,994

272
225,526
13,477
39,545

278,820

641,814

244,077
–
58,470
3,162
54,279
352

360,340

58
248,145
16,845
13,905

278,953

639,293

1,527,157

1,519,949

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

105

Group Cash Flow Statement
for the year ended 30 September 2018

Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before tax
Finance income
Finance expense
Exceptional items

Operating profit
Share of joint ventures’ profit after tax
Transaction costs
Depreciation charge
(Profit)/Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets
Share-based payment expense
Decrease in inventories
Increase in trade and other receivables 
(Decrease)/Increase in trade payables, provisions and other payables
Exceptional items received/(paid)
Transaction costs paid

Cash generated from operations
Interest paid
Income taxes paid

Net cash inflow from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities
Interest received
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment
Investment in intangible assets – computer software
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (net of cash and cash equivalents acquired)
Deferred contingent consideration paid
Disposal of subsidiary undertakings (net of cash and cash equivalents disposed)

Net cash outflow from investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issue of shares (including share premium thereon)
Repayments of interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Proceeds from interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Repayment of finance leases
Dividends paid to equity holders of the company

Net cash outflow from financing activities

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Translation adjustment
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

Cash and cash equivalents is comprised of:
Cash at bank and short-term deposits

106

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

8,386
(5,235)
13,926
97,054

114,131
(958)
2,374
24,477
(340)
37,037
5,069
4,529
(53,361)
(1,518)
4,228
(5,363)

130,305
(9,682)
(18,107)

102,516

1,662
(39,580)
986
(21,047)
(33,479)
(5,911)
21,046

92,834
(18,905)
29,257
–

103,186
(667)
4,028
21,221
55
25,450
3,613
1,893
(24,612)
3,450
(165)
(4,544)

132,908
(10,608)
(14,522)

107,778

1,044
(29,466)
146
(21,884)
(198,439)
(14,265)
–

(76,323)

(262,864)

1,364
(2,118)
2,507
(111)
(34,705)

(33,063)

(6,870)
(500)
187,469

3,175
(63,266)
–
(3)
(31,279)

(91,373)

(246,459)
5,199
428,729

180,099

187,469

180,099

187,469

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements

1.  Significant Accounting Policies
General Information
UDG Healthcare plc (the ‘Company’) and its subsidiaries (together the ‘Group’) delivers advisory, communications, commercial, clinical and 
packaging services to the healthcare industry. The Company is a public limited company whose shares are publicly traded. It is incorporated and 
domiciled in Ireland. The Company’s registered number is 12244. The address of its registered office is 20 Riverwalk, Citywest Business Campus, 
Citywest, Dublin 24, Ireland. 

The accounting policies applied in the preparation of the financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2018 are set out below.

Statement of Compliance
The Group financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) issued by the 
International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and adopted by the European Union (EU). The consolidated financial statements are also 
prepared in compliance with the Companies Act 2014 and Article 4 of the EU IAS Regulation. References to IFRS hereafter refer to IFRS adopted 
by the EU. The individual financial statements of the company (company financial statements) have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as 
adopted by the EU and as applied in accordance with the Companies Act 2014. In accordance with Section 304 of the Companies Act 2014, the 
Company has availed of the exemption from presenting its individual profit and loss account to the AGM and from filing it with the Registrar of 
Companies (Note 19). 

Basis of Preparation
The Consolidated financial statements are presented in US dollars ($), rounded to the nearest thousand ($’000), and are prepared on a going 
concern basis. The company financial statements are presented in euro (€), rounded to the nearest thousand (€’000), and are prepared on a 
going concern basis. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, except for the following 
which are measured at fair value: share-based payments, defined benefit pension plan assets and certain financial assets and liabilities including 
derivative financial instruments. 

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU requires management to make certain judgements, 
estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. 
Actual results may differ from these estimates. Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting 
estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected. The areas involving a higher degree 
of judgement and areas where assumptions and estimates are significant in relation to the Consolidated financial statements are discussed in the 
significant accounting judgements and estimates note. 

The parent company’s financial statements included on pages 157 to 166 are prepared using accounting policies which are consistent with the 
accounting policies applied to the consolidated financial statements by the Group. The accounting policies are set out below and they have also 
been applied consistently by all of the Group’s subsidiaries and joint ventures to all years presented in these financial statements. 

Basis of Consolidation
The Group’s financial statements include the financial statements of the company and all of its subsidiaries and the Group’s interest in joint 
ventures using the equity method of accounting.

New and Amended Standards and Interpretations Effective in the Year
The following new and amended IFRSs and International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) interpretations were adopted 
by the Group with effect from 1 October 2017: 
•  amendments to IAS 12, ‘Income taxes’ on recognition of deferred tax assets for unrealised losses;
•  amendments to IAS 7, ‘Statement of cash flows’ for an additional disclosure that will enable users of financial statements to evaluate changes 

• 

in liabilities arising from financing activities; and
IFRS 12, ‘Disclosure of interests in other entities’ clarifies that the disclosure requirements of IFRS 12 are applicable to interests in entities 
classified as held for sale except for summarised financial information.

These are effective for the Group’s financial year ended 30 September 2018 but did not have a material impact on the Group or Company 
financial statements.

Standards and Interpretations Issued and Amended but Not Yet Effective or Early Adopted 
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (Effective date for the Group: financial year beginning 1 October 2018)
IFRS 9 replaces IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. The standard sets out the requirements for the classification, 
recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities. There are three primary measurement categories for financial assets: 
amortised cost; fair value through other comprehensive income; and fair value through profit or loss. 

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1.  Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Standards and Interpretations Issued and Amended but Not Yet Effective or Early Adopted (continued)
Classification of financial assets is dependent on the entity’s business model and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial asset. 
Investments in equity instruments are required to be measured at fair value through profit or loss with the irrevocable option at inception to 
present changes in fair value in other comprehensive income without future recycling on derecognition. An expected credit losses model replaces 
the incurred loss impairment model used in the current standard. For financial liabilities, there are no changes to classification and measurement, 
except for the recognition of changes in own credit risk in other comprehensive income, for liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss. 

IFRS 9 simplifies the requirements for hedge effectiveness by replacing the bright-line hedge effectiveness tests required in IAS 39. To qualify for 
hedge accounting, IFRS 9 requires an economic relationship between the hedged item and hedging instrument, and for the ‘hedged ratio’ to be 
the same as the one that management actually uses for risk management purposes. Contemporaneous documentation is still required, but it is 
different from that currently prepared under IAS 39. There is an accounting policy choice to continue to account for all hedges under IAS 39. 

In preparing for the implementation of IFRS 9 in the period beginning on 1 October 2018, the Group has carried out a review of the classification 
of its financial instruments and evaluation of existing hedge relationships. An IFRS 9 assessment of financial assets impairment processes and 
measurement has commenced. The Group considers the existing hedge relationships, which are outlined in Note 31, would qualify as continuing 
hedges on adoption of IFRS 9. The Group does not expect a material impact from the new classification requirements for financial assets. The 
main impact of adopting IFRS 9 is likely to arise from the implementation of the expected credit loss model. The Group’s initial assessment is that 
there will be no material impact on adoption of the standard. 

IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Effective date for the Group: financial year beginning 1 October 2018)
IFRS 15 replaces IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts, and related interpretations. The standard deals with revenue recognition and 
establishes principles for reporting information to users of financial statements about the nature, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash 
flows arising from an entity’s contracts with customers. Revenue is recognised when a customer obtains control of a good or service and 
therefore has the ability to direct the use and obtain the benefits from the good or service. 

During the year, the Group completed its assessment of the potential impact of the new revenue standard. This assessment included a detailed 
review of revenue contracts across the Group. The Group Finance function co-ordinated the IFRS 15 assessment and implementation with the 
inclusion of key representatives from Divisional Finance. There was a bottom-up approach to analysing the impact of the standard through 
reviewing contracts with customers and reporting on the impact of the new standard on the revenue contracts and revenue streams. Technical 
review and support on the implementation of the standard was provided from Group Finance with the assistance of external advisors. 

The most significant impact of the new standard will be in the revenue recognition for packaging contracts in Sharp. In accordance with the 
existing revenue recognition policy, revenue from packaging is recognised primarily on dispatch of products. Under the new guidance in IFRS 15, 
where the Group produces products for customers that have no alternative use and for which the Group has concluded there is an enforceable 
right to payment for performance completed to date, the standard will require the Group to recognise revenue over time as the Group satisfies 
the contractual performance obligations. This will have the effect of accelerating the timing of revenue recognition from these contracts, such 
that some portion of revenue will be recognised prior to shipment or delivery of products by Sharp. There will be a decrease in inventory on the 
date of adoption for the products where revenue is recognised over time. The Group will recognise accrued income on the Balance Sheet for the 
amounts of revenue recognised prior to dispatch which have not yet been invoiced to the customer. Accrued income will be classified as ‘contract 
assets’ under IFRS 15. 

For certain contracts, the Group incurs costs directly related to the contract prior to commencement of services in the contract and such costs 
are expensed as incurred under the existing accounting standards. IFRS 15 contains enhanced recognition criteria and guidance for ‘costs of 
fulfilment’ which will result in an initial deferral of some set-up costs. The contract fulfilment costs will be amortised over the life of the contract. 
Where the Group earns a fee to compensate for such set up activities, the revenue earned will be initially deferred as a contract asset and 
recognised in revenue over time as the Group satisfies the related performance obligations in the contract. 

The implementation of the new standard is not expected to materially impact the revenue recognition in Ashfield. IFRS 15 supports the 
recognition of revenue over time, consistent with the current revenue recognition policy. The Group expects the majority of revenue contracts in 
Ashfield to continue to be recognised over time as either: i) there is a continuous transfer of control to the customer; or ii) there is no alternative 
use for any asset created and there is an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. The revenue recognition treatment 
required under the new standard is dependent on the specific terms of a contract.

IFRS 15 will be adopted using the modified retrospective approach which permits the Group to apply the new standard from 1 October 2018 with 
an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings at 1 October 2018 for the cumulative effect of applying the new standard to existing 
contracts that are not completed contracts on transition. In the year of adoption, the prior period results and financial position as reported under 
the current standards will be retained. To enable useful comparisons, the Group will disclose the impact of the new standards on the Group’s 
results in the year of initial adoption. Based on the impact assessment performed to date, the Group does not anticipate there to be material 

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Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)impact on the Group’s revenue when compared to the current accounting standards. The Group’s analysis indicates the cumulative impact of 
adopting the new standard on opening retained earnings at 1 October 2018 will be approximately an increase of $3.8 million. It should be noted 
that the implementation of IFRS 15 is being finalised in 2019 when it is effective for the Group. The disclosed expected impact of the standard is 
based on the preliminary assessment which will be finalised in the Group’s 2019 interim results.

IFRS 16 Leases (Effective date for the Group: financial year beginning 1 October 2019)
IFRS 16 replaces IAS 17 Leases and related interpretations. The standard addresses the definition of a lease, recognition and measurement of 
leases, and establishes principles for reporting useful information to users of financial statements about leasing activities. A key change arising 
from IFRS 16 is that most of the leases currently accounted for as operating leases under the existing standard, will be accounted for on the 
Balance Sheet, similar to the accounting for finance leases currently. The Group expects to adopt IFRS 16 by applying the modified retrospective 
approach to transition. With this transition approach, lease liabilities and right of use assets will be recognised for the remaining lease payments 
on existing lease commitments at date of application, discounted at the entity’s incremental borrowing rate. 

Impact on the Income Statement: Operating lease expenses amounted to $33,177,000 in the year (2017: $29,058,000) as disclosed in Note 5 and 
are presented within cost of sales and operating expenses depending on the nature of the lease. Under IFRS 16, the operating lease expense will 
be replaced by depreciation of the right of use assets and interest expense on the lease liabilities. The depreciation of the right of use assets will 
continue to be presented within cost of sales and operating expenses as appropriate. The interest expense on the leases will be presented within 
finance costs.

Impact on the Balance Sheet: Interest-bearing borrowings and non-current assets will increase on implementation of the new standard. The 
Group’s total future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases at 30 September 2018 amounted to $127,055,000 (2017: 
$103,155,000) as outlined in Note 27. IFRS 16 will result in the majority of the Group’s operating leases being recognised on the Balance Sheet as 
right of use assets and lease liabilities. The right of use assets will be adjusted by the amount of any provision for onerous leases recognised on 
the Balance Sheet immediately before the date of initial application, 1 October 2019. Onerous lease provisions are disclosed in Note 26 and 
amount to $2,896,000 (2017: $324,000).

Impact on the Cash Flow Statement: Operating lease payments are currently classified within cash flows from operating activities. Under IFRS 16, 
the lease payments will be separated. The interest element of the lease payment will be classified in cash flows from operating activities and the 
capital lease payments will be classified in cash flows from financing activities.

The Group is currently assessing the impact of the new standard. A number of factors impact the calculation of the lease liability, such as discount 
rate, the expected term of leases including renewal options and exemptions for short-term leases and low-value items. The Group’s operating 
lease commitments outlined in Note 27 provide an indication of the extent and maturity of leases currently in the Group. However, for the 
reasons highlighted above, this amount should not be used as a proxy for the impact of IFRS 16 on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Group 
will continue to assess its portfolio of leases to calculate the impending impact of transition to the new Standard. 

Other changes to IFRS have been issued but are not yet effective for the Group. However, they are either not expected to have a material effect 
on the Consolidated financial statements or they are not currently relevant for the Group.

Accounting for Subsidiaries, Joint Ventures and Associates
Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. Control exists when the Group is exposed, or has rights to variable returns from its involvement 
with the investee and has the ability to effect these returns through its power over the investee. In assessing control, potential voting rights that 
currently are exercisable or convertible are taken into account. The financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the Group financial 
statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.

Intragroup balances and any unrealised income and expenses arising from intragroup transactions are eliminated in preparing the Group 
financial statements. Unrealised gains arising from transactions with equity accounted joint ventures are eliminated against the investment to the 
extent of the Group’s interest. Unrealised losses are eliminated in the same way as unrealised gains, but only to the extent there is no evidence of 
impairment.

Joint ventures are those entities where the rights are to share in the net assets and over whose activities the Group has joint control, established 
by contractual arrangement and requiring unanimous consent for strategic, financial and operational decisions. An associate is an enterprise over 
which the Group has significant influence, but not control, through participation in the financial and operating policy decisions of the investee. 
Joint ventures and associates are included in the financial statements using the equity method of accounting, from the date that joint control and 
significant influence commence, until the date that joint control and significant influence cease. The Income Statement reflects in operating profit, 
the Group’s share of profit after tax of its joint ventures in accordance with IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements. The Group’s interest in its net assets is 
included as investment in joint ventures in the Balance Sheet at an amount representing the Group’s share of the fair value of the identifiable net 
assets at acquisition plus the Group’s share of post-acquisition retained profits or losses and other comprehensive income less dividends received 
from the joint ventures and goodwill arising on the investment and intercompany transactions that are eliminated. 

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1.  Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Business Combinations
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method as at the acquisition date, which is the date on which control is transferred 
to the Group. 

The Group measures goodwill at the acquisition date as:
the fair value of the consideration transferred; plus
• 
the recognised amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree; plus
• 
if the business combination is achieved in stages, the fair value of the pre-existing equity interest in the acquiree; less
• 
the net recognised amount (generally fair value) of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed.
• 

When the excess is negative, a bargain purchase gain is recognised immediately in profit or loss.

The consideration transferred does not include amounts related to the settlement of pre-existing relationships. Such amounts are generally 
recognised in profit or loss.

Transaction costs, other than those associated with the issue of debt or equity securities that the Group incurs in connection with completed 
business combinations are expensed as incurred.

Any deferred contingent consideration payable is measured at fair value at the acquisition date. If the deferred contingent consideration is 
classified as equity, then it is not remeasured and settlement is accounted for within equity. Otherwise, subsequent changes in the fair value  
of the deferred contingent consideration are recognised in profit or loss.

When share-based payment awards (replacement awards) are required to be exchanged for awards held by the acquiree’s employees (acquiree’s 
awards) and relate to past services, then all or a portion of the amount of the acquirer’s replacement awards is included in measuring the 
consideration transferred in the business combination. This determination is based on the market-based value of the replacement awards compared 
with the market-based value of the acquiree’s awards and the extent to which the replacement awards relate to past and/or future service.

Intangible Assets – Acquired
Intangible assets that are acquired by the Group in a business combination are stated at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment 
losses, when separable or arising from contractual or other legal rights and when they can be measured reliably. 

Amortisation is charged to the Income Statement on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the intangible assets. Intangible assets 
are amortised over the following range of periods:
Customer relationships 
Trade names 
Technology 
Contract-based 

6–15 years
2–15 years
3–10 years
6 months–1 year (contractual terms)

Intangible Assets – Computer Software
Computer software, including computer software which is not an integrated part of an item of computer hardware, is stated at cost less any 
accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses. Cost comprises purchase price and any other directly attributable costs. 

Computer software is recognised if it meets the following criteria: 
•  an asset can be separately identified;
• 
• 
• 
• 

it is probable that the asset created will generate future economic benefits; 
the development cost of the asset can be measured reliably;
it is probable that the expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the entity; and 
the cost of the asset can be measured reliably. 

Costs relating to the development of computer software for internal use are capitalised once the recognition criteria outlined above are met. 
Computer software is amortised over its expected useful life, which ranges from three to ten years, by charging equal instalments to the Income 
Statement from the date the assets are ready for use. 

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Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment is reported at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Cost includes expenditure that is 
directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. Depreciation is calculated, on a straight-line basis on cost less estimated residual value,  
to write property, plant and equipment off over their anticipated useful lives using the following annual rates:

Land and buildings: 
– Freehold land 
– Freehold buildings  
Plant and equipment 
Computer equipment 
Motor vehicles 
Assets under construction 

not depreciated
2–7%
10–20%
20–33%
20%
not depreciated

The residual value of assets, if not insignificant, and the useful life of assets are reassessed annually. Gains and losses on disposals are determined 
by comparing the consideration received with the carrying amount at the date of disposal and are included in operating profit.

Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations
Non-current assets and disposal groups that are expected to be recovered primarily through sale rather than continuing use are classified as held 
for sale. These assets are shown in the Balance Sheet at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less any disposal costs. Impairment 
losses on initial classification as assets held for sale and subsequent gains or losses on remeasurement are recognised in the Income Statement.

A discontinued operation is a component of the Group’s business, the operations and cash flows of which can be clearly distinguished from the 
rest of the Group and which:
•  represents a separate major line of business or geographic area of operations;
• 
• 

is part of a single co-ordinated plan to dispose of a separate major line of business or geographic area of operations; or
is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale.

Classification as a discontinued operation occurs at the earlier of disposal or when the operation meets the criteria to be classified as held for sale. 
When an operation is classified as a discontinued operation, the comparative statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income is 
re-presented as if the operation had been discontinued from the start of the comparative year.

Goodwill
Goodwill arises on the acquisition of subsidiaries, and it represents the excess of the consideration transferred for the acquisition, the amount  
of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree and the acquisition date fair value of any previous equity interest in the acquire over the fair value 
of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired. When the fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired exceeds the cost of the 
acquisition, the values are reassessed and any remaining gain is recognised immediately in the Income Statement. Goodwill is subsequently 
carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is allocated to the cash generating units (CGUs) that are expected to benefit from 
the combination’s synergies. This is the lowest level at which goodwill is monitored for internal management purposes. 

Goodwill is subject to impairment testing on an annual basis, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential 
impairment. The carrying value of the CGU containing the goodwill is compared to the recoverable amount, which is the higher of value in use and 
fair value less costs of disposal. Any impairment is recognised immediately as an expense in the Income Statement and is not subsequently reversed.

Where goodwill forms part of a CGU and part of the operation within that CGU is disposed of, the goodwill associated with the operation 
disposed of is included in the carrying amount of the operation when determining the gain or loss on disposal. The goodwill disposed of on  
a partial disposal of a CGU is measured on the basis of the relative values of the operation disposed of and the portion of the CGU retained. 

Impairment Reviews and Testing
The carrying amounts of the Group’s non-financial assets, other than inventories (which are carried at the lower of cost and net realisable value) 
and deferred tax assets (which are recognised based on recoverability), are reviewed on an annual basis to determine whether there is any 
indication of impairment. If such an indication exists, then the asset is tested for impairment.

The recoverable amount of a non-financial asset or CGU is the greater of its fair value less cost to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, 
the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the 
time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. For the purpose of impairment testing, assets are grouped together into the group of 
assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows of other assets or groups of assets (the CGU). An impairment 
loss is recognised if the carrying amount of an asset or its CGU exceeds its estimated recoverable amount.

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1.  Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Impairment Reviews and Testing (continued)
A financial asset is assessed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any objective evidence that it is impaired. A financial asset is 
considered to be impaired if objective evidence indicates that one or more events have had a negative effect on the estimated future cash flows  
of that asset.

An impairment loss in respect of a financial asset measured at amortised cost is calculated as the difference between its carrying amount and the 
present value of the estimated future cash flows discounted at the original effective interest rate. An impairment loss arising on financial assets is 
recognised in the income statement. Individually significant financial assets are tested for impairment on an individual basis. 

An impairment loss, other than in the case of goodwill, is reversed if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable 
amount. An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have 
been determined, net of depreciation or amortisation, if no impairment loss had been recognised.

All impairment losses are recognised in the Income Statement.

Leases
Leases of property, plant and equipment, where the Group assumes substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership, are classified as finance 
leases. Finance leases are capitalised at the inception of the lease at the lower of the fair value of the leased asset and the present value of the 
minimum lease payments. The corresponding rental obligations, net of finance charges, are included in interest-bearing loans and borrowings. 
The interest element of the finance cost is charged to the income statement over the lease period so as to produce a constant periodic rate of 
interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each period. The property, plant and equipment acquired under finance leases are depreciated 
over the shorter of the useful life of the asset or the lease term.

Leases where substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership are retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Payments made 
under operating leases are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.

Inventories
Inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is based on the first in, first out principle and includes all expenditure 
which has been incurred in the normal course of business in bringing the products to their present location and condition. Net realisable value  
is the estimated selling price of inventory on hand in the ordinary course of business less all costs expected to be incurred in marketing, selling 
and distribution. 

Foreign Currency
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currency of the related entity at the foreign exchange rate ruling at the  
date of the transaction. Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured based on historical cost are not subsequently re-translated. 
Non-monetary assets carried at fair value are subsequently remeasured at the exchange rate at the date fair value was determined. Monetary 
assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated into functional currencies at the foreign exchange 
rate ruling at that date. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in the Income Statement, except for qualifying cash 
flow hedges and a financial liability designated as a hedge of the net investment in a foreign operation, which are recognised directly in Other 
Comprehensive Income.

The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on consolidation, are translated to US dollars 
at the foreign exchange rates ruling at the balance sheet date. The revenues and expenses of foreign operations are translated to US dollars at 
the average exchange rate for the financial period. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation of foreign operations, including those 
arising on long-term intra-Group loans deemed to be quasi-equity in nature, are recognised in Other Comprehensive Income and accumulated  
in the foreign exchange reserve within Equity.

When a foreign operation is disposed of such that control, significant influence or joint control is lost, the cumulative amount in the translation 
reserve related to that foreign operation is reclassified to profit or loss as part of the gain or loss on disposal. When the Group disposes of only 
part of its interest in a subsidiary that includes a foreign operation while retaining control, the relevant proportion of the cumulative amount is 
reattributed to non-controlling interests. When the Group disposes of only part of its investment in an associate or joint venture that includes  
a foreign operation while retaining significant influence or joint control, the relevant proportion of the cumulative amount is reclassified to profit 
or loss. 

Hedge of Net Investment in Foreign Operation
Foreign currency differences arising on the retranslation of a financial liability designated as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation 
are recognised in Other Comprehensive Income to the extent that the hedge is effective and are presented within Equity in the foreign exchange 
translation reserve. To the extent that the hedge is ineffective, such differences are recognised in profit or loss. When the hedged part of a net 
investment is disposed of, the associated cumulative amount in equity is transferred to profit or loss as an adjustment to the profit or loss on disposal.

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Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Financial Guarantee Contracts
Where the Group enters into financial guarantee contracts to guarantee the indebtedness of other parties, the Group considers these to be 
insurance arrangements and accounts for them as such. The Group treats the guarantee contract as a contingent liability until such time as it 
becomes probable that the Group will be required to make a payment under the guarantee.

Revenue Recognition 
Revenue represents the fair value of consideration received or receivable (net of returns, trade discounts and rebates) for products and services 
provided in the course of ordinary activity to third party clients in the financial reporting period. The fair value of sales is exclusive of value added 
tax and after allowances for discounts and is recognised in the Income Statement when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have been 
transferred to the buyer, the consideration can be measured reliably and it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Group. 
Discounts granted to clients are recognised as a reduction in sales revenue at the time of the sale based on management’s estimate of the likely 
discount to be awarded to clients.

Revenue from services rendered is recognised in the Income Statement in proportion to the stage of completion of the related contract or fully 
when no further obligations exist on the related service contract. Where the outcome of the contract can be measured reliably, stage of 
completion is measured by reference to services completed to date as a percentage of total services to be performed. Where services are to  
be performed rateably over a period of time, revenue is recognised on a straight-line basis over the period of the contract.

When the Group acts in the capacity of an agent rather than as the principal in a transaction, the revenue recognised is the net amount of 
commission earned by the Group.

Exceptional Items 
The Group has applied an income statement format which seeks to highlight significant items within Group results for the year. Such items  
may include significant restructuring and onerous lease provisions, fair value movements in contingent consideration, profit or loss on disposal or 
termination of operations, litigation costs and settlements, termination benefits including settlement of share-based payments, profit or loss on 
disposal of investments and impairment of assets. The Group exercises judgement in assessing the particular items which, by virtue of their scale 
and nature, should be disclosed in the Income Statement and related notes as exceptional items. The Group believes that such a presentation 
provides a more helpful analysis as it highlights material items of a non-recurring nature.

Finance Income and Expense
Finance income comprises interest income on funds invested, changes in the fair value of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, and 
gains on hedging instruments that are recognised in profit or loss. Interest income is recognised as it accrues in profit or loss, using the effective 
interest method.

Finance expense comprises interest expense on borrowings, unwinding of the discount on provisions, changes in the fair value of financial assets 
and losses on hedging instruments that are recognised in profit or loss. All borrowing costs are recognised in profit or loss using the effective 
interest rate method.

Employee Benefits
Pension Obligations
A defined contribution pension plan is a post-employment benefit plan under which an entity pays fixed contributions into a separate entity and 
will have no legal or constructive obligation to pay further amounts. Obligations for contributions to defined contribution pension plans are 
recognised as an expense in the Income Statement as incurred.

A defined benefit plan is a post-employment plan other than a defined contribution plan. The Group’s net obligation in respect of defined benefit 
pension plans is calculated separately for each plan by estimating the amount of future benefit that employees have earned in the current and 
prior years, discounting that amount and deducting the fair value of any plan assets. The calculation of defined benefit obligations is performed 
annually by a qualified actuary using the projected unit credit method. When the calculation results in a potential asset for the Group, the 
recognised asset is limited to the present value of economic benefits available in the form of any future refunds from the plan or reductions in 
future contributions to the plan. To calculate the present value of economic benefits, consideration is given to any applicable minimum funding 
requirements.

Remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability, which comprise actuarial gains and losses, the return on plan assets (excluding interest) and 
the effect of the asset ceiling (if any, excluding interest), are recognised immediately in Other Comprehensive Income. The Group determines the 
net interest expense/(income) on the net benefit liability/(asset) for the year by applying the discount rate used to measure the defined benefit 
obligation at the beginning of the year to the then net benefit liability/(asset), taking into account any changes in the net defined benefit liability/
(asset) during the year as a result of contributions and benefit payments. The discount rate applied is the yield at the balance sheet date on 
high-quality corporate bonds that have maturity dates approximating the terms of the Group’s obligations.

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1.  Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Employee Benefits (continued)
Net interest expense and other expenses related to defined benefit plans are recognised in profit or loss. When the benefits of a plan are changed 
or when a plan is curtailed, the resulting change in benefit that relates to past service or the gain or loss on curtailment is recognised immediately 
in the profit or loss. The Group recognises gains and losses on the settlement of a defined benefit plan when the settlement occurs. 

Performance-Related Incentive Plans
The Group recognises the present value of a liability for short-term employee benefits, including costs associated with performance-related 
incentive plans, in the Income Statement when an employee has rendered service in exchange for these benefits and a constructive obligation  
to pay those benefits arises.

Share-based Payment Transactions
The Group operates a Long-Term Incentive Plan and share option scheme which allow executive directors and employees acquire shares in the 
Company. All schemes are equity settled arrangements under IFRS 2 Share-based Payments. 

The grant-date fair value of share-based payment awards granted to employees is recognised as an employee expense, with a corresponding 
increase in equity, over the period that the employees become unconditionally entitled to the awards. The amount recognised as an expense  
is adjusted to reflect the number of awards for which the related service and non-market performance conditions are expected to be met,  
such that the amount ultimately recognised as an expense is based on the number of awards that meet the related service and non-market 
performance conditions at the vesting date. For share-based payment awards with market-based vesting conditions, the grant-date fair value of 
the share-based payment is measured to reflect such conditions and there is no true-up for differences between expected and actual outcomes.

Income Tax Expense
Income tax expense for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Taxation is recognised in the Income Statement except to the extent that  
it relates to items recognised directly in Equity or Other Comprehensive Income, in which case the related tax is recognised directly in Equity  
or Other Comprehensive Income.

Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively 
enacted at the balance sheet date and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.

Deferred tax is provided using the balance sheet liability method, providing for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets 
and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. 

If the deferred tax arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the 
transaction does not affect accounting nor taxable profit or loss, it is not recognised. The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the 
expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted  
at the balance sheet date.

A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can  
be utilised. Deferred tax assets are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realised.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax liabilities and assets, and they relate to 
income taxes levied by the same tax authority on the same tax entity or on different tax entities, but they intend to settle current tax liabilities  
and assets on a net basis.

Segmental Reporting
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the Chief Operating Decision Maker (CODM) 
who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments. Following the disposal of Aquilant, the Group 
has determined that it has two reportable operating segments: Ashfield and Sharp. 

Cash and Cash Equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and deposits, including bank deposits of less than six months’ maturity from the 
commencement date. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the Group’s cash management are included  
as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the Group and Company Cash Flow Statements.

Trade and Other Receivables
Trade and other receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method 
less provision for impairment.

A provision for impairment of trade receivables is established when there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all 
amounts due according to the original terms of receivables. Significant financial difficulties of the debtor, probability that the debtor will enter 

114

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Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)bankruptcy or financial reorganisation, and default in payments are considered indicators that the trade receivable is impaired. The amount  
of the provision is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows. The amount of the 
provision is recognised in the Group Income Statement.

Financial Instruments
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Group uses derivative financial instruments to hedge its exposure to foreign exchange and interest rate risks arising from operating, 
financing and investment activities. In accordance with its treasury policy, the Group does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments  
for trading purposes. However, derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are accounted for as trading instruments.

Derivative financial instruments are recognised at fair value. The gain or loss on remeasurement to fair value is recognised immediately in the 
Income Statement, except where derivatives qualify for hedge accounting, in which case recognition of any resultant gain or loss depends on the 
nature of the item being hedged, as set out below.

The fair value of interest rate swaps is the estimated amount that the Group would receive or pay to terminate the swap at the balance sheet date, 
taking into account current interest rates and the current creditworthiness of the swap counterparties. 

Cash Flow Hedges
Where a derivative financial instrument is designated as a hedge of the variability in cash flows of a recognised asset or liability, or a highly 
probable forecasted transaction, the effective part of changes in the fair value of the derivative financial instrument is recognised directly in 
Other Comprehensive Income in the cash flow hedge reserve. When the forecasted transaction results in the recognition of a non-financial asset 
or non-financial liability, the associated cumulative gain or loss is removed from Equity and included in the initial cost or other carrying amount of 
the non-financial asset or liability. In other cases, the associated cumulative gain or loss is removed from equity and recognised in the Income 
Statement in the same period or periods during which the hedged item affects profit or loss. The ineffective part of any gain or loss is recognised 
immediately in the Income Statement.

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, or the entity revokes designation of the hedge relationship but the hedged 
forecasted, transaction is still expected to occur, then hedge accounting is ceased prospectively and the cumulative gain or loss at that point 
remains in Equity and is recognised in accordance with the above policy when the transaction occurs. If the hedged transaction is no longer 
expected to take place, the cumulative unrealised gain or loss recognised in Equity is reclassified immediately to the Income Statement.

Fair Value Hedges
Where a derivative financial instrument is designated as a hedge of a change in the fair value of an asset or liability, gains or losses arising from 
the remeasurement of the hedging instrument to fair value are reported in the Income Statement. In addition, any changes in the fair value of  
the hedged item which is attributable to the hedged risk is adjusted against the carrying amount of the hedged item and reflected in the Income 
Statement. Where the adjustment is to the carrying amount of a hedged interest-bearing financial instrument, the adjustment is amortised to the 
Income Statement with the objective of achieving full amortisation by maturity.

Non-derivative Financial Instruments
Non-derivative financial instruments comprise trade and other receivables, cash and cash equivalents, loans and borrowings, and trade and 
other payables. Non-derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost.

A financial instrument is recognised when the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets are 
derecognised if the Group’s contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial assets expire or if the Group transfers the financial asset to 
another party without retaining control of substantially all risks and rewards of the asset. Purchases and sales of financial assets are accounted 
for at trade date, i.e. the date that the Group commits itself to purchase or sell the asset. Financial liabilities are de-recognised if the Group’s 
obligations specified in the contract expire, are discharged or cancelled.

Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings are recognised initially at fair value less attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, 
interest-bearing loans and borrowings, other than those accounted for under the fair value hedging model outlined above, are stated at 
amortised cost with any difference between cost and redemption value being recognised in the Income Statement over the period of the 
borrowings on an effective interest basis. Effective interest rate is calculated by taking into account any issue costs and any expected discount  
or premium on settlement.

Provisions
A provision is recognised in the Balance Sheet when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event, and it is 
probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation which can be measured reliably. If the effect is material, 
provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time 
value of money and the risks specific to the liability.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

115

1.  Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Share Capital
Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of ordinary shares and share options are recognised 
as a deduction from equity, net of any tax effects.

Where share capital recognised as equity is repurchased, the amount of the consideration paid, including directly attributable costs, net of any tax 
effects, is recognised as a deduction from equity. Repurchased shares are classified as treasury shares and are presented as a deduction from total equity.

2.  Significant Accounting Estimates and Judgements
Income Tax Expense (Note 8)
The Group is subject to income tax in a number of jurisdictions, and significant judgement and degree of estimation is required in determining 
the worldwide provision for taxes. There are many transactions and calculations during the ordinary course of business, for which the ultimate 
tax determination is uncertain and the complexity of the tax treatment may be such that the final tax charge may not be determined until formal 
resolution has been concluded with the relevant tax authority which may take extended time periods to conclude. Also, the Group can be subject 
to uncertainties, including tax audits in any of the jurisdictions in which it operates, which are frequently complex taking many years to conclude. 
Amounts accrued for anticipated tax authority reviews are based on estimates of whether any additional amounts of tax may be due. Such 
estimates are determined based on a number of factors including management judgement, interpretation of relevant tax laws, correspondence 
with the tax authorities, advice from external tax professionals and a probability weighted expected value.

The ultimate tax charge may, therefore, be different from that which initially is reflected in the Group’s consolidated tax charge and provision and 
any such differences could have a material impact on the Group’s income tax charge and consequently financial performance. Where the final tax 
charge is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences are recognised in the income tax provision in the period in 
which such determination is made. 

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Note 13 and Note 14)
The Group annually tests whether there is any impairment in goodwill, in accordance with the accounting policy outlined in Note 1. Determining 
whether goodwill is impaired requires comparison of the value in use for the relevant CGUs to the net assets attributable to these CGUs. The 
value in use calculation is based on an estimate of future cash flows expected to arise from the CGUs and these are discounted to net present 
value using an appropriate discount rate. In calculating value in use, management judgement is required in forecasting cash flows of cash 
generating units, in determining terminal growth values and in calculating an appropriate discount rate. The goodwill impairment test  
is sensitive to these estimates. The Group has performed sensitivity analysis over the value in use calculation with respect to the key estimates. 
Sensitivities to changes in assumptions are detailed in Note 13. 

Determining the useful life of intangible assets requires judgement. Management regularly reviews these useful lives and changes them if 
necessary to reflect current conditions. Changes in useful lives can have a significant impact on the amortisation charge for the year. The 
amortisation expense in the year by class of intangible asset and the weighted average remaining useful lives for each category of intangible 
assets are disclosed in Note 14.

Inventories (Note 16)
Inventory comprises raw materials, work in progress and finished goods. Provisions are made against slow-moving, obsolete and damaged 
inventories for which the net realisable value is estimated to be less than cost. Determining the net realisable value of inventory requires 
judgement to be applied to determine the likely saleability of products and the potential prices that can be achieved. Estimates of net realisable 
value are based on the most reliable evidence, taking into consideration product obsolescence or perishability (which are generally low given the 
nature of the Group’s inventory) and the purpose for which the inventory is held. The actual realisable value of inventory may differ from the 
estimated value on which the provision is based. 

Trade and Other Receivables (Note 17)
The Group trades with a large and varied number of clients on credit terms. Provision for impairment is made when there is objective evidence 
that the Group will not be in a position to collect the associated trade debts. Significant financial difficulties of the debtor, probability that the 
debtor will enter bankruptcy or financial reorganisation, and default in payments are considered indicators that the trade receivable is impaired. 
The Group uses estimates based on historical experience and current information in determining the level of debts for which a provision for 
impairment is required. The amount of the provision is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated 
future cash flows. The level of provision required is reviewed on an ongoing basis. The movement in the allowance for impairment of trade 
debtors together with the aging of trade debtors and the aging of the allowance for impairment are outlined in Note 17.

Provisions and Deferred Contingent Consideration (Note 26)
The amounts recognised as a provision are management’s best estimate of the expenditure required to settle present obligations at the balance 
sheet date. The outcome depends on future events which are by their nature uncertain. In assessing the likely outcome, management bases its 
assessment on historical experience and other factors that are believed to be reasonable in the circumstances. If the effect is material, provisions 
are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of 
money and the risks specific to the liability. Further details on provisions by category including the movement in provisions and expected maturity 
of provisions are outlined in Note 26.

116

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Deferred contingent consideration are recognised in the Group Balance Sheet as provisions. The expected payment is determined separately  
in respect of each individual contingent consideration agreement taking into consideration the expected level of profitability of each acquisition. 
Deferred contingent consideration is recognised at fair value at the acquisition date and included in the costs of the acquisition. Deferred 
contingent consideration arrangements are based on earn-out agreements providing for future payment if certain profit targets of the acquiree 
are achieved. The fair value of deferred contingent consideration is estimated using an income-based approach of estimating the expected 
payment from forecasts of performance of acquired businesses and discounting the expected payment on the contingent consideration to 
present value using an appropriate discount rate. The movement in deferred contingent consideration in the period is outlined in Note 26. 
Further details on measurement of contingent consideration and sensitivities are disclosed in Note 31.

Employee Benefits (Note 30)
Retirement Benefit Obligations 
The estimation of and accounting for retirement benefit obligations involves judgements made in conjunction with independent actuaries. The 
present value of the pension obligations depends on a number of factors that are determined on an actuarial basis. These involve estimates about 
uncertain future events based on the environment in different countries, including life expectancy of scheme members, future salary and pension 
increases and inflation as well as discount rates. The assumptions used in determining the net cost (income) for pensions include the discount 
rate. The assumptions used by the Group and a sensitivity analysis of a change in these assumptions are described in Note 30. 

Share-based Payments 
The fair value of the Executive Share Option Scheme has been measured using the Black Scholes formula or the binomial formula. The fair value 
of the LTIP has been measured using the Black Scholes formula or the Monte Carlo Simulation. The inputs used in the measurement of the fair 
values at grant date are disclosed in Note 30. 

3.  Revenue

Goods for resale
Services
Commission income

Total revenue

2018 
$’000

72,579
1,237,821
4,786

2017 
$’000

87,659
1,127,169
4,927

1,315,186

1,219,755

Commission income relates to the sale of products where the Group acts as an agent in the transaction rather than as a principal. 

4.  Segmental Information
Segmental information is presented in respect of the Group’s operating segments and geographical regions. The operating segments are based 
on the Group’s management and internal reporting structure. Inter-segment pricing is determined on an arm’s length basis. Segment results, 
assets and liabilities include items directly attributable to a segment as well as those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis. Due to the nature 
of certain liabilities and assets, which are not segment specific, they have not been allocated to a segment but rather have been disclosed in 
aggregate immediately after the relevant segment note. Segment capital expenditure is the total cost incurred during the year to acquire segment 
assets that are expected to be used for more than one year and is comprised of property, plant and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets.

UDG Healthcare is a leading global healthcare services provider. IFRS 8 Operating Segments requires the reporting information for operating 
segments to reflect the Group’s management structure and the way financial information is regularly reviewed by the Group’s CODM, which the 
Group has defined as Brendan McAtamney (Chief Executive Officer). The segmental information of the business as presented corresponds with 
these requirements. Operating profit before transaction costs, amortisation of acquired intangible assets and exceptional items (adjusted 
operating profit) represents the key measure utilised in assessing the performance of operating segments. 

The Group’s operations are divided into the following operating segments:

Ashfield – Ashfield is a global leader in commercialisation services for the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry, operating across three broad 
areas of activity: advisory, communications and commercial & clinical services. It focuses on supporting healthcare professionals and patients at 
all stages of the product life cycle. The division provides field and contact centre sales teams, healthcare communications, patient support, audit, 
advisory, medical information and event management services to over 300 healthcare companies.

Sharp – Sharp is a global leader in contract packaging and clinical trial packaging services for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, 
operating from state-of-the-art facilities in the US and Europe. 

Aquilant – During the year, the Group disposed of Aquilant (Note 7). Aquilant is a leading provider of outsourced sales, marketing, distribution 
and engineering services to the medical and scientific sectors in the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

117

4.  Segmental Information (continued)
Geographical Analysis
The Group operates in four principal geographical regions being the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom, North America and the Rest of 
World. In presenting information on the basis of geographical segment, segment revenue is based on the geographical location of the Group’s 
subsidiaries. Segment assets are based on the geographical location of the assets.

Inter-segment revenue is not material and thus not subject to disclosure.

Revenue and results – 2018

Segment revenue 

Adjusted operating profit*
Amortisation of acquired intangibles
Transaction costs
Exceptional items

Operating profit/(loss)
Finance income
Finance expense

Profit before tax
Income tax expense

Profit for the financial year

*   Excluding amortisation of acquired intangibles, transaction costs and exceptional items.

Revenue and results – 2017

Segment revenue

Adjusted operating profit*
Amortisation of acquired intangibles
Transaction costs

Operating profit
Finance income
Finance expense

Profit before tax
Income tax expense

Profit for the financial year

*   Excluding amortisation of acquired intangibles and transaction costs.

Ashfield 
2018 
$’000

Sharp 
2018 
$’000

Aquilant 
2018 
$’000

Group total 
2018 
$’000

921,406

311,073

82,707

1,315,186

98,451
(29,021)
(2,277)
(13,855)

53,298

45,775
(1,980)
(97)
(4,081)

39,617

3,280
–
–
(90,694)

(87,414)

147,506
(31,001)
(2,374)
(108,630)

5,501
16,811
(13,926)

8,386
(4,529)

3,857

Ashfield 
2017 
$’000

821,412

81,567
(20,040)
(3,758)

57,769

Sharp 
2017 
$’000

Aquilant 
2017 
$’000

Group total 
2017 
$’000

302,076

96,267

1,219,755

41,304
(2,026)
(270)

39,008

6,409
–
–

6,409

129,280
(22,066)
(4,028)

103,186
18,905
(29,257)

92,834
(20,976)

71,858

118

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Segmental assets and liabilities – 2018

Segment assets
Unallocated assets

Segment liabilities
Unallocated liabilities

Segmental assets and liabilities – 2017

Segment assets
Unallocated assets

Segment liabilities
Unallocated liabilities

Ashfield 
2018 
$’000

Sharp 
2018 
$’000

Aquilant 
2018 
$’000

1,029,065

428,612

(288,721)

(81,661)

–

–

Ashfield 
2017 
$’000

Sharp 
2017 
$’000

Aquilant 
2017 
$’000

947,326

358,007

126,550

(261,143)

(70,755)

(34,669)

Group total 
2018 
$’000

1,457,677
69,480

1,527,157

(370,382)
(271,432)

(641,814)

Group total 
2017 
$’000

1,431,883
88,066

1,519,949

(366,567)
(272,726)

(639,293)

Unallocated assets and liabilities comprises amounts relating to interest-bearing loans and borrowings, derivative financial instruments, current 
income tax, deferred income tax, employee benefits and cash held at Group. The decrease in unallocated assets during the year reflects a 
reduction in Group cash balances due to acquisition activity.

Other segmental information

Depreciation

Capital expenditure*

Amortisation of acquired intangibles

Amortisation of computer software

Share-based payment expense

Other segmental information 2017

Depreciation

Capital expenditure*

Amortisation of acquired intangibles

Amortisation of computer software

Share-based payment expense

Ashfield 
2018
$’000

7,913

105,390

29,021

4,351

3,798

Ashfield 
2017 
$’000

6,298

289,257

20,040

2,180

2,585

Sharp 
2018
$’000

15,383

32,164

1,980

1,620

1,218

Sharp 
2017 
$’000

13,362

38,210

2,026

1,123

920

Aquilant 
2018
$’000

1,181

1,032

–

65

53

Aquilant 
2017 
$’000

1,561

1,556

–

81

108

Group total 
2018
$’000

24,477

138,586

31,001

6,036

5,069

Group total 
2017 
$’000

21,221

329,023

22,066

3,384

3,613

*   Capital expenditure comprises acquisition of computer software, property, plant and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets.

The results and assets of joint ventures and associates are included within the individual business segment in which they are included for internal 
reporting, which relate to the Ashfield division.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

119

4.  Segmental Information (continued)
The following represents a geographical analysis of the segment information in accordance with IFRS 8, which requires disclosure of information 
about the country of domicile (Republic of Ireland) and countries with material revenue and non-current assets. 

Geographical analysis

Revenue

Total assets

Capital expenditure*

Revenue 

Total assets

Capital expenditure*

Republic of 
Ireland 
2018 
$’000

38,724

28,706

503

Republic of 
Ireland 
2017 
$’000

42,178

97,315

205

United 
Kingdom 
2018 
$’000

305,677

491,181

27,604

United 
Kingdom 
2017 
$’000

318,934

554,885

128,017

North 
America 
2018 
$’000

715,792

820,944

101,365

North 
America 
2017 
$’000

629,001

684,879

182,947

Rest of 
World 
2018 
$’000

Group 
total 
2018 
$’000

254,993

1,315,186

186,326

1,527,157

9,114

138,586

Rest of 
World 
2017 
$’000

229,642

182,870

17,854

Group 
total 
2017 
$’000

1,219,755

1,519,949

329,023

*   Capital expenditure comprises acquisition of computer software, property, plant and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets.

5.  Statutory and Other Information

Operating profit is stated after charging/(crediting):
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
(Profit)/Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets:
– Amortisation of acquired intangibles
– Amortisation of computer software 
Employee benefits
Operating lease rentals:
– Land and buildings
– Other assets
Foreign exchange gain

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

24,477
(340)

31,001
6,036
614,181

17,025
16,152
(1,049)

21,221
55

22,066
3,384
511,108 

13,646
15,412
(2,293)

Details of directors’ remuneration, pension entitlements and interests in share options are set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Report.

Auditor’s remuneration

Fees payable to the Group auditors and to member firms of the Group auditors are as follows: 
Description of services
Audit services:
– Group
– Company
Other assurance services:
– Group
– Company
Tax advisory services:
– Group
– Company
Other non-audit services:
– Group
– Company

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

1,356
9

–
–

–
–

28
–

1,393

887
9

–
–

–
–

2
–

898

Group audit consists of fees payable for the consolidated and statutory audits of the Group and its subsidiaries. Included in Group audit are total 
fees of $9,000 (2017: $9,000) which were paid to the Group’s auditor in respect of the parent company. 

120

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Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Included in the above fees are the following amounts payable to the Group auditors outside of Ireland:

Audit services
Other assurance services
Tax advisory services
Other non-audit services

6.  Finance Income and Expense

Finance income
Income arising from cash deposits
Fair value adjustment to guaranteed senior unsecured loan notes
Foreign currency gain on retranslation of guaranteed senior unsecured loan notes
Ineffective portion of cash flow hedges
Net finance income on pension scheme obligations

Finance expense
Interest on overdrafts 
Interest on bank loans and other loans:
– Wholly repayable within five years
– Wholly repayable after five years
Interest on finance leases
Unwinding of discount on provisions
Fair value adjustments to fair value hedges
Fair value of cash flow hedges transferred to equity
Ineffective portion of cash flow hedges

Net finance expense, pre-exceptional items
Finance income relating to exceptional items (Note 9)

Net finance income/(expense)

2018 
$’000

739
–
–

739

2018 
$’000

1,763
213
3,032
–
227

5,235

2017 
$’000

593
–
–

593

2017 
$’000

1,057
2,840
14,865
76
67

18,905

(95)

(46)

(7,510)
(1,997)
(3)
(840)
(213)
(3,032)
(236)

(5,482)
(5,641)
(3)
(380)
(2,840)
(14,865)
–

(13,926)

(29,257)

(8,691)
11,576

2,885

(10,352)
–

(10,352)

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

121

7. Disposal of Subsidiaries
On 8 August 2018 the Group completed the disposal of Aquilant. The following tables summarise the consideration received, loss on disposal and 
the net cash flow arising on the disposal of Aquilant:

Consideration
Cash consideration received 
Deferred consideration

Total consideration received

Assets and liabilities disposed of
Property, plant and equipment
Goodwill
Deferred tax assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Trade and other payables
Cash and cash equivalents

Net assets disposed of

Loss on disposal
Total consideration received
Net assets disposed of
Reclassification of foreign currency translation reserve on disposal
Disposal costs

Net loss on disposal of subsidiaries

Net cash flow from disposal of subsidiaries
Cash and cash equivalents received 
Cash and cash equivalents disposed of

Net cash inflow from disposal of subsidiaries

2018 
$’000

22,389
580

22,969

3,871
7,703
333
18,923
16,266
(18,634)
1,343

29,805

22,969
(29,805)
(33,383)
(1,683)

(41,902)

22,389
(1,343)

21,046

The cash inflow from disposal of subsidiaries is presented within cash flows from investing activities in the Group Cash Flow Statement.

The net loss on disposal is presented as an exceptional item (Note 9) within other operating expenses. The net loss on disposal includes the 
reclassification of the foreign currency translation reserve of $33,383,000. This is the cumulative foreign translation difference arising from the 
translation of the net assets of Aquilant denominated in euro and sterling, to US dollars in each reporting period. As these exchange differences 
were previously recognised in the Group’s other comprehensive income and the foreign exchange reserve, this charge has a $nil impact on 
shareholder’s equity. The recycling of the foreign currency translation reserve had a $nil impact on the Group’s adjusted diluted EPS.

An impairment charge of $57,648,000 arose on the carrying value of the goodwill in Aquilant in the six-month period to 31 March 2018 as 
previously disclosed in the 2018 interim results. This is presented as an exceptional item in Note 9.

The operating results of Aquilant, excluding exceptional items, which are outlined for the current and prior year in the segmental information  
in Note 4, are not considered to be a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations and therefore has not been separately 
presented in the Group Income Statement as a discontinued operation. The impairment charge and loss on disposal are separately presented 
within exceptional items (Note 9). 

122

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)8.  Income Tax Expense
Recognised in the income statement

Current income tax
Ireland
Adjustment in respect of prior years
Current year income tax on profit for the year

Overseas
Adjustment in respect of prior years
Current year income tax on profit for the year

Total current income tax expense

Deferred income tax
Origination and reversal of temporary differences:
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Tax deductible goodwill
Employee benefits
Short-term temporary differences

Total deferred income tax credit/(expense)

Income tax expense

2018 
$’000

2017
$’000

715
(1,034)

(319)

4,021
(20,322)

(16,301)

(16,620)

(1,118)
1,793
6,139
1,260
4,017

12,091

2,442
(589)

1,853

(108)
(18,710)

(18,818)

(16,965)

(2,508)
5,070
(5,099)
332
(1,806)

(4,011)

(4,529)

(20,976)

Other temporary differences primarily relate to short-term temporary differences.

Factors Affecting the Tax Charge in Future Years
The total tax charge for future periods will be affected by changes to applicable tax rates in force in jurisdictions in which the Group operates and 
other changes in tax legislation applicable to the Group’s businesses.

Reconciliation of effective tax rate

Profit before tax
Taxation based on Irish corporation tax rate
Expenses not deductible for tax purposes
Loss on disposal of subsidiary not deductible
Impairment of goodwill not deductible
Tax on income from joint ventures
Losses recognised
Differences in foreign tax rates
Impact of changes in US tax rates
Adjustments in respect of prior years

2018
%

12.5

2018 
$’000

8,386
(1,048)
(1,022)
(5,238)
(7,206)
120
2,422
(7,048)
9,715
4,776

(4,529)

2017
%

12.5

2017 
$’000

92,834
(11,604)
(1,318)
–
–
83
–
(10,893)
–
2,756

(20,976)

The enactment of the ‘Tax Cuts and Jobs Act’ in the US during the year resulted in a deferred tax credit of $9,715,000 to the income statement 
shown as part of the exceptional items (Note 9) and a deferred tax credit of $408,000 to other comprehensive income.

The Group’s share of joint ventures’ profit after tax includes a tax charge of $572,000 (2017: $366,000).

Recognised in other comprehensive income

Deferred tax
Defined benefit schemes
Cash flow hedges

2018 
$’000

221
433

654

2017 
$’000

(599)
51

(548)

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

123

9.  Exceptional Items
Exceptional items are those which, in management’s judgement, should be disclosed separately by virtue of their nature or amount. These 
exceptional items are separately presented in the Income Statement caption to which they relate. An analysis of exceptional items is disclosed below.

Contract terminations
Impairment of goodwill
Loss on disposal of subsidiary
Restructuring costs and other
Onerous lease
Impairment of property, plant and equipment 

Net operating exceptional items
Deferred contingent consideration

Net exceptional items before taxation
Exceptional items tax credit
Deferred tax

Net exceptional items after taxation

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d) 
(e)
(f)

(g)

(h)

2018 
$’000

(8,882)
57,648
41,902
14,536
2,924
502

108,630
(11,576)

97,054
(1,548)
(9,715)

85,791

(a) Contract termination costs
On 22 December 2017, Aquilant exited the VSI contract for a consideration of $10,135,000 in respect of the contract termination to include 
certain assets of the trade including stock. On 29 March 2018, Aquilant exited the Link contract and received consideration of $4,930,000 in 
respect of the contract termination to include certain assets of the trade. Exiting these contracts included the transfer of stock and other assets  
of $5,658,000 and resulted in restructuring costs of $525,000, primarily relating to redundancy costs. The total exceptional cash inflow net of 
costs and net of stock transferred in the year was $8,865,000 and the expected total net cash inflow is $9,021,000. A tax charge of $1,010,000 
was incurred in relation to these items. 

(b) Impairment of goodwill
A goodwill impairment charge of $57,648,000 arose during the six month period to 31 March 2018, as the Group wrote down the carrying  
value of goodwill in relation to Aquilant (Note 13). This impairment resulted from the loss of contracts in the period, and an anticipated reduction 
in future earnings and resultant cashflows from the lower base. Aquilant was subsequently disposed of on 8 August 2018 (Note 7).

(c) Loss on disposal of subsidiary 
On 8 August 2018 the Group announced the disposal of Aquilant and incurred a loss on disposal of $41,902,000 which is detailed in Note 7. 

(d) Restructuring costs and other 
During the year, the Group implemented a restructuring of its internal operating structures in Ashfield and Sharp, with a view to achieving 
greater flexibility, accountability and performance. Restructuring costs and other includes redundancy costs of $12,623,000 and accelerated 
share-based payment expense of $1,574,000. The balance of $339,000 relates to other costs associated with the restructuring. A tax credit of 
$2,770,000 arose in respect of restructuring costs including redundancy, $nil in respect of accelerated share-based payments expense and 
$76,000 in respect of other costs associated with restructuring the business.

(e) Onerous lease 
Onerous lease costs were incurred in relation to the exit of leased properties as a consequence of the organisation restructuring during the year.  
A tax credit of $639,000 arose in respect of the onerous lease costs.

(f) Impairment of property, plant and equipment 
Impairment of property, plant and equipment arose due to the exit of properties as a result of the realignment of the Group’s structure.  
A tax credit of $78,000 arose in respect of the impairment of property, plant and equipment. 

(g) Deferred contingent consideration 
Deferred contingent consideration of $3,469,000 in respect of Cambridge BioMarketing, $5,250,000 in respect of MicroMass Communications 
and $2,857,000 in respect of Sellxpert was released in the year following a review of expected performance against earn-out targets. A tax charge 
of $1,005,000 arose as a result of the release of contingent consideration presented within exceptional item tax line.

124

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(h)  Deferred tax
The exceptional credit to the Group Income Statement of $9,715,000 reflects the one-off benefit of a reduction in the Group’s deferred tax 
liabilities following the enactment of the US Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. A credit of $408,000 also arises in the Group Statement of Comprehensive 
Income as a further consequence of this legislation.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the exceptional costs to the Group Income Statement:

Cost of sales 
$’000

Selling and 
distribution 
expenses 
$’000

Administration 
expenses 
$’000

–
–
–
3,366
1,990
350
–

5,706

–
–
–
9,956
934
152
–

11,042

–
–
–
1,214
–
–
–

1,214

Other 
operating 
expenses 
$’000

–
57,648
41,902
–
–
–
–

Other 
operating 
income 
$’000

(8,882)
–
–
–
–
–
–

Finance 
income 
$’000

–
–
–
–
–
–
(11,576)

Total 
exceptional 
items 
$’000

(8,882)
57,648
41,902
14,536
2,924
502
(11,576)

99,550

(8,882)

(11,576)

97,054

Contract terminations
Impairment of goodwill
Loss on disposal of subsidiary
Restructuring costs and other
Onerous leases
Impairment of property, plant and equipment
Deferred contingent consideration

Net exceptional items before taxation

Exceptional items tax credit
Deferred tax

Net exceptional items after taxation

10.  Dividends – Equity Shares 

Dividends paid
Final dividend for 2017 of 9.72 $ cent (2016: 9.04 $ cent) per share 
Interim dividend for 2018 of 4.25 $ cent (2017: 3.58 $ cent) per share

Total dividends

(1,548)
(9,715)

85,791

2018
$’000

2017
$’000

24,137
10,568

22,388
8,891

34,705

31,279

The directors have proposed a final dividend for 2018 of 11.75 $ cent per share (2017: 9.72 $ cent per share) amounting to $29,224,000  
(2017: $24,137,000), subject to shareholder approval at the upcoming AGM. The total dividend for the year, subject to shareholder approval,  
is 16.00 $ cent (2017: 13.30 $ cent) per share.

The final dividend for 2018 has not been provided for in the Balance Sheet at 30 September 2018, as there was no present obligation to pay the 
dividend at year end.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

125

11.   Earnings Per Ordinary Share

Profit attributable to owners of the parent
Adjustment for amortisation of acquired intangible assets (net of tax)
Adjustment for transaction costs (net of tax)
Adjustment for exceptional items (net of tax)

Adjusted profit attributable to owners of the parent

Weighted average number of shares
Number of dilutive shares under options

Weighted average number of shares, including share options

Basic earnings per share – $ cent
Diluted earnings per share – $ cent
Adjusted basic earnings per share – $ cent 1
Adjusted diluted earnings per share – $ cent 1

Total 
2018 
$’000

3,795
23,287
2,194
85,791

115,067

Total 
2017 
$’000

71,858
16,996
3,658
–

92,512

2018 
Number of shares

2017 
Number of shares

248,517,745
1,947,043

248,001,114
1,238,273

250,464,788

249,239,387

2018

1.53
1.52
46.30
45.94

2017

28.97
28.83
37.30
37.12

1 

Adjusted profit attributable to equity holders of the parent is stated before the amortisation of acquired intangible assets ($23.3 million, net of tax), transaction costs ($2.2 million,  
net of tax), loss on disposal of Aquilant ($41.9 million) and other exceptional items ($43.9 million, net of tax).

Non–IFRS Information
The Group reports certain financial measurements that are not required under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) which 
represent the generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) under which the Group reports. The Group believes that the presentation  
of these non–GAAP measurements provides useful supplemental information which, when viewed in conjunction with our IFRS financial 
information, provides investors with a more meaningful understanding of the underlying financial and operating performance of the Group and 
its divisions. These measurements are also used internally to evaluate the historical and planned future performance of the Group’s operations 
and to measure executive management’s performance-based remuneration. 

Treasury shares have been excluded from the weighted average number of shares in issue used in the calculation of earnings per share. 1,357,684 
(2017: 2,567,081) anti–dilutive share options have been excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share.

The average market value of the Company’s shares for the purposes of calculating the dilutive effect of share options was based on quoted 
market prices for the year.

12.  Property, Plant and Equipment

Year ended 30 September 2018
Opening net book amount
Additions in year
Arising on acquisition
Depreciation charge
Impairment
Disposals in year
Reclassifications
Translation adjustment

At 30 September 2018

At 30 September 2018
Cost or deemed cost
Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

126

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Land and 
buildings 
$’000

Plant and 
equipment 
$’000

Motor 
vehicles 
$’000

Computer 
equipment 
$’000

Assets under 
construction 
$’000

Total 
$’000

76,463
3,637
–
(5,412)
(502)
(355)
(1,778)
(522)

80,564
17,016
70
(13,727)
(188)
(4,033)
2,521
(549)

71,531

81,674

271
6
–
(45)
–
(24)
(55)
(1)

152

10,014
1,962
108
(5,293)
–
(668)
55
(139)

1,091
19,849
–
–
–
–
(743)
–

168,403
42,470
178
(24,477)
(690)
(5,080)
–
(1,211)

6,039

20,197

179,593

104,783
(33,252)

160,280
(78,606)

71,531

81,674

331
(179)

152

25,332
(19,293)

20,197
–

310,923
(131,330)

6,039

20,197

179,593

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Year ended 30 September 2017 
Opening net book amount
Additions in year
Arising on acquisition 
Depreciation charge
Disposals in year
Transfer to intangibles
Reclassifications
Translation adjustment

At 30 September 2017

At 30 September 2017
Cost or deemed cost
Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

Land and 
buildings 
$’000

Plant and 
equipment 
$’000

Motor 
vehicles 
$’000

Computer 
equipment 
$’000

Assets under 
construction 
$’000

Total 
$’000

61,093
4,151
15,692
(4,935)
(97)
–
(561)
1,120

65,013
20,780
5,153
(11,620)
(14)
–
163
1,089

76,463

80,564

290
30
–
(62)
–
–
–
13

271

10,481
3,414
593
(4,604)
(90)
(393)
398
215

–
1,091
–
–
–
–
–
–

136,877
29,466
21,438
(21,221)
(201)
(393)
–
2,437

10,014

1,091

168,403

106,815
(30,352)

157,112
(76,548)

738
(467)

27,558
(17,544)

1,091
–

293,314
(124,911)

76,463

80,564

271

10,014

1,091

168,403

No borrowings are secured on the above assets with the exception of the leased assets noted below.

Leased Property, Plant and Equipment
The net book value of land and buildings includes long leaseholds of $1,005,263 (2017: $1,027,559). The Group leases items of property, plant 
and equipment under a number of finance lease agreements. At 30 September 2018, the carrying amount of property, plant and equipment held 
under finance leases was $30,748 (2017: $164,000) and related depreciation amounted to $90,094 (2017: $86,000).

13.  Goodwill

Cost
At 1 October
Arising on acquisition (Note 29)
Measurement period adjustment
Impairment (Note 9)
Disposals of subsidiaries (Note 7)
Translation adjustment

At 30 September

2018
$’000

2017 
$’000

542,554
42,041
–
(57,648)
(7,703)
(3,290)

515,954

384,520
140,626
1,844
–
–
15,564

542,554

Goodwill arises on acquisitions. The goodwill acquired during the year relates to the acquisition of Create NYC and SmartAnalyst (Note 29).  
In the prior year, there was a measurement period adjustment of $1,844,000 on finalisation of business combination accounting.

Goodwill acquired through business combinations has been allocated to CGUs for the purpose of impairment testing. The CGUs represent  
the lowest level within the Group at which associated goodwill is monitored for management purposes and is not bigger than the segments 
determined in accordance with IFRS 8 Operating Segments. Significant under-performance in any of the Group’s major CGUs may give rise  
to a material write-down of goodwill which would have a substantial impact on the Group’s income and equity. A total of eight (2017: nine) CGUs 
have been identified. The change in the number of CGUs identified is a result of the disposal of Aquilant during the year. Aquilant was considered 
a CGU for the purposes of impairment testing.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

127

13.  Goodwill (continued)
The carrying value of goodwill and the number of CGUs are analysed between the operating segments in the Group below.

Ashfield 
Sharp 
Aquilant

2018 
$’000

Number of 
CGUs

2017 
$’000

Number of 
CGUs

426,093
89,861
–

515,954

6
2
–

8

389,029
90,541
62,984

542,554

6
2
1

9

In accordance with IAS 36 Impairment of Assets, the CGUs to which significant amounts of goodwill (greater than 10% of the total value) have 
been allocated are as follows:

2018
$’000

2017 
$’000

Ashfield Healthcare Communications Group 1
Ashfield Advisory Group 2
Aquilant Group
Ashfield EUCAN Group 
Sharp Commercial Packaging Group

1 
2 

Includes goodwill relating to Create NYC LLC which was acquired during the year (Note 29). 
Includes goodwill relating to SmartAnalyst Inc which was acquired during the year (Note 29). 

197,627
79,941
–
53,193
50,504

168,842
67,032
62,984
54,181
50,847

Impairment Testing of CGUs Containing Goodwill 
The Group tests goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if there is an indication that the goodwill may be impaired. This 
testing involves determining the CGU’s value in use and comparing this to the carrying amount of the CGU. Where the value in use exceeds the 
carrying value of the CGU, the asset is not impaired, but where the carrying amount exceeds the value in use, an impairment loss is recognised  
to reduce the carrying amount of the CGU to its value in use. Estimates of value in use are key judgemental estimates in the financial statements. 
A number of key assumptions have been made as a basis for the impairment tests. In each case, these key assumptions have been made by 
management reflecting past experience and are consistent with relevant external sources of information. 

Value in Use Calculations
Where a value in use approach is used to assess the recoverable amount of the CGU, calculations use pre-tax cash flow projections based  
on financial budgets and projections covering a five-year period. The cash flow forecasts used for the value in use computations exclude 
incremental profits and other cash flows derived from planned acquisition activities. For individual CGUs, the cash flow forecasts employed in  
the computations are based on a four-year plan, which has been approved by senior management. The remaining year’s forecasts have been 
extrapolated using growth rates consistent with the four-year plan. A long-term growth rate reflecting the long-term economic growth rates for 
the countries of operation of the CGUs have been applied to the year five cash flows. The long-term growth rates applied to value in use 
calculations range from 2.0% to 2.3% (2017: 2.5%). The value in use of each CGU is calculated using a discount rate representing the Group’s 
estimated weighted average cost of capital, adjusted to reflect risks associated with each CGU. The pre-tax discount rates range from 9.1% to 11% 
(2017: 8.1% to 12.5%). The pre-tax discount rates and long-term growth rates used for significant CGUs are detailed in the table below.

Ashfield Healthcare Communications Group
Ashfield Advisory Group
Aquilant Group 
Ashfield EUCAN Group
Sharp Commercial Packaging Group 

Discount rate (pre-tax)

Long-term growth rate

2018

10.1%
9.5%
–
10.7%
10.6%

2017

8.5%
8.5%
8.1%
9.8%
11.1%

2018

2.1%
2.1%
–
2.3%
2.2%

2017

2.5%
2.5%
2.5%
2.5%
2.5%

The key assumptions used for the value in use computations are that the markets will grow in accordance with publicly available data, the Group 
will maintain its current market share, gross margins will be maintained at current levels and overheads will increase in line with expected levels 
of inflation. The cash flow forecasts assume appropriate levels of capital expenditure and investment in working capital to support the growth in 
individual CGUs.

128

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued) 
Impairment
There was no impairment charge arising from the Group’s annual goodwill impairment test. An impairment was recognised during the year in 
respect of goodwill in the Aquilant Group arising from an impairment test of the Aquilant Group at 31 March 2018 as a result of impairment 
indicators identified. The impairment resulted from the loss of contracts in Aquilant during the period and an anticipated slower build in earnings 
and resultant cash flows from the lower base. A goodwill impairment expense of $57,648,000 was recognised as disclosed in the 2018 interim 
results and is presented within other operating expenses as an exceptional item (Note 9). The recoverable amount of the Aquilant Group was 
determined based on value in use calculations as outlined above on the basis of continuing use. A pre-tax discount rate of 9.5% (30 September 
2017: 8.1%) and terminal growth rate of 2.0% (30 September 2017: 2.5%) were applied. The Aquilant Group has since been disposed of and the 
remaining goodwill of the Aquilant Group was derecognised on disposal (Note 7).

Additional Sensitivity Analysis
The Group has conducted a sensitivity analysis on each of the CGUs by increasing the discount rate by 2%, reducing the long-term growth rates 
by 0.5% and decreasing cash flow forecasts by 10%. Applying these sensitivities did not indicate an impairment in any CGU. 

14.  Intangible Assets

Year ended 30 September 2018
Opening net book amount
Additions in year
Arising on acquisition
Amortisation of acquired intangible assets
Amortisation of computer software
Translation adjustment

At 30 September 2018

At 30 September 2018
Cost or deemed cost
Accumulated amortisation 

Net book amount

Year ended 30 September 2017
Opening net book amount
Additions in year
Arising on acquisition
Amortisation of acquired intangible assets
Amortisation of computer software
Transfer from property, plant and equipment
Measurement period adjustment
Translation adjustment

At 30 September 2017

At 30 September 2017
Cost or deemed cost
Accumulated amortisation 

Net book amount

Computer 
software 
$’000

Customer 
relationships 
$’000

Trade names 
$’000

Contract-
based 
$’000

Technology 
$’000

Total 
$’000

39,770
21,047
9
–
(6,036)
(992)

126,974
–
21,560
(19,843)
–
(1,408)

47,555
–
8,502
(5,390)
–
(286)

1,167
–
2,710
(2,435)
–
–

12,151
–
–
(3,333)
–
(184)

227,617
21,047
32,781
(31,001)
(6,036)
(2,870)

53,798

127,283

50,381

1,442

8,634

241,538

71,016
231,717
(17,218) (104,434)

82,949
(32,568)

15,563
(14,121)

18,724
419,969
(10,090) (178,431)

53,798

127,283

50,381

1,442

8,634

241,538

Computer 
software 
$’000

Customer 
relationships 
$’000

Trade names 
$’000

Contract-
based 
$’000

Technology 
$’000

Total 
$’000

18,962
21,884
77
–
(3,384)
393
–
1,838

76,736
–
62,734
(16,275)
–
–
(1,005)
4,784

11,333
–
37,924
(2,751)
–
–
–
1,049

–
–
1,400
(233)
–
–
–
–

1,291
–
12,635
(2,807)
–
–
–
1,032

108,322
21,884
114,770
(22,066)
(3,384)
393
(1,005)
8,703

39,770

126,974

47,555

1,167

12,151

227,617

51,445
(11,675)

218,720
(91,746)

79,653
(32,098)

22,039
(20,872)

19,144
(6,993)

391,001
(163,384)

39,770

126,974

47,555

1,167

12,151

227,617

The amortisation charge for the year has been charged to other operating expenses in the Income Statement. Intangible assets are amortised 
over their useful lives, ranging from six months to 15 years, depending on the nature of the asset.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

129

14.  Intangible Assets (continued)

Weighted average remaining amortisation period

At 30 September 2018

At 30 September 2017

Computer 
software

Customer 
relationships

7.9

6.6

6.7

6.6

Trade names

Contract-based

Technology

7.9

9.6

1.0

1.0

2.6

3.6

15.  Investment in Joint Ventures and Associates
The Group’s interest in its joint ventures and associates, all of which are unlisted, is set out below.

At 1 October 2016 
Share of profit after tax
Translation adjustment

At 30 September 2017 
Share of profit after tax 
Translation adjustment 

At 30 September 2018

$’000

9,067
667
(896)

8,838
958
(67)

9,729

The Group has classified the joint venture arrangement with Magir Limited (‘Magir’) as an asset held for sale. The carrying value of the investment 
in Magir is $nil (2017: $nil). During the year, the Group’s ownership interest in Magir reduced to 25% (from 31.62% at 30 September 2017) and in 
addition the Group’s guarantee to Magir’s bankers was released. The investment is available for immediate sale in its present condition and the 
Group is committed to its sale as soon as practicable. 

Set out below is the summarised financial information for the Group’s joint ventures, which are accounted for using the equity method. The 
information below reflects the amounts presented in the financial statements of the joint venture reconciled to the carrying value of the Group’s 
interest in joint ventures.

Joint venture balance sheet (100%)
Non-current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Other current assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities

Net assets

Reconciliation of the carrying value of the Group’s interest in joint ventures:
Group’s equity interest
Group’s share of net assets
Goodwill

Carrying value of Group’s interest in joint ventures

Revenue 
Expenses, net of tax

Profit after tax

Group’s equity interest

Group’s share of profit after tax 

130

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

1,706
3,742
14,651
(2,532)
(8,825)

8,742

49.99%
4,370
5,359

9,729

2018 
$’000

66,271
(64,355)

1,916

49.99%

958

2,265
2,292
13,879
(4,199)
(7,315)

6,922

49.99%
3,460
5,378

8,838

2017 
$’000

61,883
(60,549)

1,334

49.99%

667

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Capital Commitments
At 30 September 2018, the Group’s share of authorised but not contracted for capital expenditure was $nil (2017: $nil).

The following joint venture of UDG Healthcare plc is classified as an asset held for sale.

Name

Nature of business

Magir Limited (trading as Medicare)

Healthcare and retail organisation 

Group share

25% 

Magir Limited has its registered office at  
44 Montgomery Road, Belfast, BT6 9ML

The following joint venture of UDG Healthcare plc is included within the Ashfield operating segment.

Name

CMIC Ashfield Co., Ltd 

Nature of business

Contract sales outsourcing 

Group share

49.99% 

CMIC Ashfield Co., Ltd has its registered office at 
7–10–4 Nishi-Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan

All shares held are ordinary shares.

UDG Healthcare plc accounts for Magir Limited and CMIC Ashfield Co. Limited as joint ventures on the basis of contractual arrangements which 
establish joint control between the Group and the remaining shareholders. These contractual arrangements outline the requirement for all 
significant strategic, financial and operational decisions to be jointly approved by both parties to the respective agreements.

The Group has considered the impact of IFRS 12, Disclosure of Interest in Other Entities in the Group financial statements. Given that neither 
joint venture is individually material to the results or financial position of the Group as at 30 September 2018 or 2017, no separate summary 
information for the respective joint ventures has been disclosed.

16.  Inventories

Raw materials
Work in progress
Finished goods

2018 
$’000

17,048
7,295
6,905

31,248

2017 
$’000

13,921
6,159
34,980

55,060

In 2018, raw materials, work in progress and finished goods recognised as cost of sales amounted to $231,752,000 (2017: $207,803,000). 

Estimates of net realisable value are based on the most reliable evidence, taking into consideration product obsolescence or perishability (which 
are generally low given the nature of the Group’s inventory) and the purpose for which the inventory is held.

Current replacement cost does not differ materially from historical cost.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

131

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
17.   Trade and Other Receivables

Current
Trade receivables
Other receivables
Accrued income
Prepayments

The maximum exposure to credit risk for trade receivables at the reporting date by geographical region was:

Geographical analysis of risk
Republic of Ireland
United Kingdom
North America
Rest of World

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

222,376
32,233
63,730
28,853

347,192

215,140
24,121
50,050
18,077

307,388

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

2,839
26,144
131,053
62,340

222,376

7,191
39,023
104,577
64,349

215,140

There is no material concentration of credit risk with regard to individual clients included in Group trade receivables. Details of how the Group 
manages credit risk are set out in Note 31.

The ageing of trade receivables at 30 September 2018 and 2017 was:

Not past due 

Past due
0–30 days
31–90 days
91–180 days
+181 days

Gross value 
$’000

187,657

22,554
10,654
2,461
1,706

2018

Impairment 
$’000

Net 
$’000

(187)

187,470

(30)
(30)
(703)
(1,706)

22,524
10,624
1,758
–

Gross value 
$’000

186,146

19,213
8,923
2,099
1,315

225,032

(2,656)

222,376

217,696

The movement in the allowance for impairment in respect of trade receivables during the year was as follows:

At beginning of the year
Disposals in year
Bad debts written off during the year
Impairment loss recognised during the year
Translation adjustment

At end of year

2017 

Impairment 
$’000

Net 
$’000

(200)

185,946

(58)
(457)
(526)
(1,315)

(2,556)

2018 
$’000

2,556
(109)
(228)
484
(47)

2,656

19,155
8,466
1,573
–

215,140

2017 
$’000

2,916
–
(562)
104
98

2,556

Trade receivables are assessed individually for impairment. The Group trades with a large and varied number of clients on credit terms.  
Provision for impairment is made when there is objective evidence that the Group will not be in a position to collect the associated trade debts. 
Impairments are recorded in the Group Income Statement on identification. The general economic climate being experienced by clients of the 
Group remains consistent with 2017 and is closely monitored by the Group.

132

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)18.  Equity Share Capital

Equity share capital

Authorised
Ordinary shares of €0.05 each 
Redeemable ordinary shares of €0.05 each

Allotted, called up and fully paid
Ordinary shares of €0.05 each
Redeemable ordinary shares of €0.05 each

In issue at 30 September

Number of 
shares 
2018

2018 
$’000

Number of 
shares 
2017

367,471,934
7,528,066

21,605
492

367,471,934
7,528,066

375,000,000

22,097

375,000,000

248,712,639
7,528,066

14,151
492

248,326,744
7,528,066

256,240,705

14,643

255,854,810

2017 
$’000

21,605
492

22,097

14,128
492

14,620

The redeemable ordinary shares do not rank for dividends and do not carry voting rights. The redeemable ordinary shares can be redeemed by 
the Company with the agreement of holders of such shares. All redeemable ordinary shares are held by the Group and are treated as treasury 
shares in accordance with the requirements of company law. 

The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to attend, speak, ask questions and 
have one vote per share at general meetings of the Company. All shares rank equally with regard to the Company’s residual assets.

In issue at beginning of year
Exercise of share options
Issued in business combination 

In issue at end of year

Number of ordinary shares

Number of redeemable ordinary shares

2018

2017

2018

2017

248,326,744
385,895
–

246,764,469
837,278
724,997

7,528,066
–
–

7,528,066
–
–

248,712,639

248,326,744

7,528,066

7,528,066

19.  Profit Attributable to UDG Healthcare plc
The profit recorded in the financial statements of the holding Company for the year ended 30 September 2018 was €31,526,000 (2017: 
€76,437,000). As permitted by Section 304 (2) of the Companies Act 2014, the Income Statement of the Company has not been separately 
presented – the exemption is afforded by Section 304. 

20.  Share Premium

At 1 October
Premium arising on shares issued
Issued in business combination 

At 30 September

2018 
$’000

196,496
1,341
–

197,837

2017 
$’000

187,355
3,129
6,012

196,496

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

133

21.  Other Reserves

At 1 October 2017 
Effective portion of cash flow hedges 
Deferred tax on cash flow hedges
Share-based payment expense
Release from share-based payment reserve
Translation adjustment
Reclassification on loss of control of subsidiary 
undertakings

Cash flow hedge 
$’000

Share-based 
payment 
$’000

Foreign exchange 
$’000

Treasury shares 
$’000

(12,854)
(3,465)
433
–
–
–

8,992
–
–
6,643
(827)
–

(155,465)
–
–
–
–
(5,466)

(7,676)
–
–
–
–
–

–

–

33,383

–

At 30 September 2018

(15,886)

14,808

(127,548)

(7,676)

At 1 October 2016 
Effective portion of cash flow hedges 
Deferred tax on cash flow hedges
Share-based payment expense
Release from share-based payment reserve
Translation adjustment

At 30 September 2017

Cash flow hedge 
$’000

Share-based 
payment 
$’000

(12,499) 
(406)
51
–
–
–

(12,854)

5,956
–
–
3,613
(577)
–

8,992

Foreign exchange 
$’000

Treasury shares 
$’000

(165,574) 

(7,676) 

–
–
–
–
10,109

–
–
–
–
–

(155,465)

(7,676)

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
$’000

347
–
–
–
–
–

–

347

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
$’000

347
–
–
–
–
–

347

Total 
$’000

(166,656)
(3,465)
433
6,643
(827)
(5,466)

33,383

(135,955)

Total 
$’000

(179,446)
(406)
51
3,613
(577)
10,109

(166,656)

Cash Flow Hedge Reserve
The cash flow hedge reserve comprises the effective portion of the cumulative net change in the fair value of cash flow hedging instruments 
related to hedged transactions that have not yet occurred.

Share-based Payment Reserve
This reserve comprises amounts expensed in the Income Statement in connection with share-based payments, net of transfers to retained 
earnings on the exercise, lapsing or forfeiting of share awards.

Foreign Exchange Reserve
The currency translation reserve comprises all foreign exchange differences arising from the translation of the net assets of the Group’s non-US 
dollar-denominated operations, including the translation of the profits of such operations from the average exchange rate for the year to the 
exchange rate at the balance sheet date.

The reserve also includes all foreign exchange differences arising from the translation of liabilities that hedge the Group’s net investment in 
foreign operations.

Capital Redemption Reserve
The capital redemption reserve is a legal reserve which has arisen from the company buying back and cancelling its ordinary shares.

Treasury Shares
Dublin Drug Company Limited
During the year ended 30 September 1998, the Group acquired Dublin Drug Company Limited for consideration of $13,118,000 which at the  
date of its acquisition held 2,225,438 ordinary shares in UDG Healthcare plc which had a nominal value of $790,000 and at the date of their 
acquisition represented 9.84% of the Company’s issued ordinary share capital. Subsequent to the acquisition, these ordinary shares were 
converted into redeemable ordinary shares.

On 29 January 2002, 1,150,000 of these redeemable ordinary shares were redeemed at their market value both out of the proceeds of a placing  
in the market of 1,150,000 new ordinary shares and the distributable reserves of the Company, in accordance with Article 3A of the Articles of 
Association of the Company and Section 207 of the Companies Act 1990, and immediately thereafter were cancelled.

During the year ended 30 September 2003, the Company’s shareholders approved a seven for one split of the ordinary share capital and 
redeemable ordinary share capital of the Company. At 30 September 2018, Dublin Drug Company Limited continued to hold 7,528,066 redeemable 
ordinary shares and they have been treated as treasury shares in the Balance Sheet in accordance with the requirements of company law.

134

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Summary
At 30 September 2018 7,528,066 (2017: 7,528,066) treasury shares were held by the Group, representing 2.94% (2017: 2.94%) of the issued 
ordinary and redeemable ordinary share capital of the Company.

22.  Retained Earnings

At beginning of year
Net income recognised directly in the Income Statement
Net income recognised directly in Other Comprehensive Income: 
– Remeasurement gain on Group defined benefit schemes 
– Deferred tax on Group defined benefit schemes
Dividends paid to equity holders
Release from share-based payment reserve

At end of year

23.  Non-controlling Interests

At 1 October
Acquired during the year
Share of profit for the financial year 
Translation adjustment

At 30 September

2018 
$’000

836,087
3,795

2,422
221
(34,705)
827

2017 
$’000

784,432
71,858

11,098
(599)
(31,279)
577

808,647

836,087

2018 
$’000

109
–
62
–

171

2017 
$’000

–
110
–
(1)

109

The non-controlling interests relate to Sellxpert AG, a company registered in Switzerland. The Group acquired a 50% shareholding in Sellxpert 
AG on 10 July 2017.

24.  Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings

Non-current
Guaranteed senior unsecured notes
Finance leases

Current
Guaranteed senior unsecured notes
Bank borrowings
Finance leases

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

243,091
8

243,099

244,043
34

244,077

(100)
327
45

272

(142)
70
130

58

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

135

24.  Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings (continued)
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings are repayable as follows:

Bank borrowings, overdrafts and guaranteed senior unsecured notes
Within one year
After one but within two years
After two but within five years
After five years
Finance leases
Within one year
After one but within two years

Non-current
Current

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

227
65,045
118,729
59,317

45
8

243,371

243,099
272

243,371

(72)
(95)
65,362
178,776

130
34

244,135

244,077
58

244,135

In September 2010, the Group completed a $130 million debt financing in the US Private Placement Market. The following notes 
remain outstanding:

5.25% Series ‘B’ guaranteed senior unsecured notes, 2020

2018 
$’000

65,000

65,000

2017 
$’000

65,000

65,000

In September 2013, the Group completed a $140 million and €23 million debt financing in the US Private Placement Market. The following  
notes remain outstanding:

4.48% Series ‘A’ guaranteed senior unsecured notes, 2023
4.59% Series ‘B’ guaranteed senior unsecured notes, 2025

3.45% Series ‘C’ guaranteed senior unsecured notes, 2023
3.50% Series ‘D’ guaranteed senior unsecured notes, 2025

2018 
$’000

105,000
35,000

140,000

2018 
€’000

12,000
11,000

23,000

2017 
$’000

105,000
35,000

140,000

2017 
€’000

12,000
11,000

23,000

In September 2014, the Group completed a €10 million debt financing in the US Private Placement Market. The following note 
remains outstanding:

2.64% Series ‘A’ guaranteed senior unsecured note, 2023

2018 
€’000

10,000

10,000

2017 
€’000

10,000

10,000

All the loan notes were issued by UDG Healthcare Finance Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary, and have been guaranteed by UDG Healthcare 
plc and other Group undertakings.

US dollar loan note issuance proceeds were swapped into euro and the US dollar fixed interest rates applicable to the debt were swapped into 
predominantly fixed euro rate debt to generate the desired interest profile.

These loans are repayable in full on maturity.

136

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Borrowing Facilities
In September 2014, the Group renewed its senior bank debt facility extending the term to November 2019.

At year end the Group has $244,062,000 (2017: $247,926,000) of committed, undrawn multi-currency senior debt loan facilities with a maturity 
date of November 2019. The Group also has $11,622,000 (2017: $11,806,000) of undrawn overdraft facilities.

Covenants
The unsecured loan notes and senior bank facilities are subject to compliance with certain covenants including a leverage covenant (net debt to 
EBITDA) not to exceed 3.5:1 and an interest cover covenant (EBITDA to net interest expense) to be at least 3.0:1. 

25.  Trade and Other Payables

Current
Trade payables
Accruals 
Deferred income
Other payables
PAYE, VAT and social welfare

Non-current
Other payables

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

39,920
86,709
61,880
19,827
17,190

58,145
97,526
58,968
12,594
20,912

225,526

248,145

5,451

–

230,977

248,145

Other payables in non-current liabilities primarily relate to lease incentives.

26.  Provisions

At the beginning of the year
(Release)/charge to income statement
Arising on acquisitions (Note 29)
Utilised during the year
Unwinding of discount
Measurement period adjustment
Translation adjustment

At end of year

Non-current
Current

Total

Deferred 
contingent 
consideration 
2018 
$’000

Onerous leases 
2018 
$’000

Restructuring and 
other costs 
2018 
$’000

71,878
(11,576)
42,408
(5,911)
840
–
(724)

96,915

67,409
29,506

324
2,924
–
(331)
–
–
(21)

2,896

1,455
1,441

173
12,962
–
(4,306)
–
–
(195)

8,634

36
8,598

Total 
2018 
$’000

72,375
4,310
42,408
(10,548)
840
–
(940)

108,445

68,900
39,545

Total 
2017 
$’000

16,067
–
65,939
(14,430)
380
999
3,420

72,375

58,470
13,905

96,915

2,896

8,634

108,445

72,375

Deferred Contingent Consideration
The deferred contingent consideration liability represents the fair value of amounts which may become payable over the period from October 
2018 to October 2023 in connection with the acquisition of subsidiaries. Payment is dependent on achieving predetermined targets based  
on future performance and profitability. During the year, payments were made of $5,911,000 (2017: $14,265,000) with respect to prior year 
acquisitions. Deferred contingent consideration of $11,576,000 (2017: $nil) in respect of prior year acquisitions was released in the year following  
a review of expected performance against earn-out targets. Further details on the measurement of contingent consideration and sensitivities are 
disclosed in Note 31.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

137

26.  Provisions (continued)
Onerous Leases 
The onerous leases relate to properties that the Group remains committed to following the integration of the businesses acquired in prior years. 
The properties are being proactively managed. In calculating the provisions, the Group made certain estimates and assumptions in assessing the 
amount provided. The provisions were calculated by taking into consideration the committed rental charges associated with the premises and the 
period of time to the earliest date at which the Group can exit from the leases. The cash outflows will be incurred during the period from October 
2018 to April 2021. 

Restructuring and Other Costs
This provision primarily relates to redundancy costs associated with the implementation of the restructuring of the Group’s internal operating 
structures in Ashfield and Sharp. The Group restructuring provision recognised in the year includes redundancy costs of $12,623,000 and other 
costs of $339,000 associated with restructuring the business. The majority of the provision is expected to be settled within one year.

27.  Operating Leases
Leases as Lessee
Non-cancellable operating lease rentals are payable as set out below. These amounts represent the minimum future lease payments, in 
aggregate, the Group is required to make under existing lease agreements.

Less than one year
Between one and five years
More than five years

2018 
$’000

24,602
62,451
40,002

2017 
$’000

27,121
52,729
23,305

127,055

103,155

The Group leases certain property, plant and equipment under operating leases. The leases typically run for an initial lease period with the 
potential to renew the leases after the initial period.

28.  Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities
The following is an analysis of the movement in the major categories of deferred tax assets/(liabilities) recognised by the Group for the year 
ended 30 September 2018:

At 1 October 2017
Recognised in Income Statement
Recognised in Other Comprehensive Income
Arising on acquisition
Exchange differences and other

Property, plant 
and equipment 
$’000

Intangible assets 
$’000

Tax deductible 
goodwill 
$’000

(9,147)
(1,118)
–
49
(471)

(15,921)
1,793
–
(2,435)
334

(29,613)
6,139
–
–
45

At 30 September 2018

(10,687)

(16,229)

(23,429)

Analysed as:
Deferred tax asset
Deferred tax liability

189
(10,876)

(10,687)

–
(16,229)

(16,229)

–
(23,429)

(23,429)

Retirement 
benefit 
obligation 
$’000

Short-term 
temporary 
differences and 
other differences 
$’000

(4,421)
1,260
221
–
9

(2,931)

–
(2,931)

(2,931)

8,848
4,017
433
–
25

13,323

5,083
8,240

13,323

Total 
$’000

(50,254)
12,091
654
(2,386)
(58)

(39,953)

5,272
(45,225)

(39,953)

138

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued) 
The following is an analysis of the movement in the major categories of deferred tax assets/(liabilities) recognised by the Group for the year 
ended 30 September 2017.

At 1 October 2016
Recognised in Income Statement
Recognised in Other Comprehensive Income
Arising on acquisition
Exchange differences and other

At 30 September 2017

Analysed as:
Deferred tax asset
Deferred tax liability

Property, plant and 
equipment 
$’000

Intangible assets 
$’000

Tax deductible 
goodwill 
$’000

Retirement 
benefit 
obligation 
$’000

Short-term 
temporary 
differences and 
other differences 
$’000

(6,894) 
(2,508)
–
(22)
277

(9,147)

7
(9,154)

(9,147)

184 
5,070
–
(19,989)
(1,186)

(15,921)

–
(15,921)

(15,921)

(24,439)
(5,099)
–
–
(75)

(29,613)

–
(29,613)

(29,613)

(4,148) 
332
(599)
–
(6)

(4,421)

234
(4,655)

(4,421)

8,585
(1,806)
51
1,932
86

8,848

3,784
5,064

8,848

Total 
$’000

(26,712) 
(4,011)
(548)
(18,079)
(904)

(50,254)

4,025
(54,279)

(50,254)

No deferred income tax is recognised on the unremitted earnings of overseas subsidiaries and joint ventures as the Group does not anticipate 
additional tax on any ultimate remittance.

As at 30 September 2018, the Group has unused tax losses and other timing differences of $26,482,000 (2017: $34,714,000) in respect of which 
no deferred tax asset has been recognised as it is not considered probable that there will be future taxable profits available. Included in the tax 
losses not recognised for deferred tax purposes are losses of $15,113,000 (2017: $14,728,000) which will expire within the next nine years. The 
remaining tax losses carry forward indefinitely. 

29.  Acquisition of Subsidiary Undertakings 
On 1 July 2018, the Group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Create NYC LLC, an innovative New York-based healthcare creative 
communications agency, offering the tactical execution of sales and marketing materials for its international pharmaceutical clients. Create NYC’s 
offering comprises a unique, disruptive model which gives its clients high-impact, on-demand flexible marketing support with a flat fee structure. 
The acquisition of Create NYC is in line with Ashfield’s strategy to expand into areas of differentiated but aligned adjacencies to its core scientific 
communication capabilities. The combination of Create NYC with Ashfield Healthcare Communications provides the opportunity to diversify 
Create NYC’s client base and expand internationally.

The Group acquired 100% of SmartAnalyst Inc on 1 July 2018. SmartAnalyst is a US-based strategic consulting and analytics business focused on 
the pharmaceutical and biotech sector with operations in New York, London and Gurgaon, India. The acquisition of SmartAnalyst is in line with 
Ashfield’s strategy to expand its advisory service proposition for its healthcare clients. Ashfield will provide leverage and opportunities to grow 
SmartAnalyst’s customer base outside the US through Ashfield’s global business.

The initial assignment of fair values to identifiable net assets acquired has been performed on a provisional basis in respect of the above listed 
acquisitions due to the timing of recent acquisitions. Any amendments to these acquisition fair values within the 12-month timeframe from the 
date of acquisition will be disclosed in the 2019 Annual Report as stipulated by IFRS 3 Business Combinations.

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

139

29.  Acquisition of Subsidiary Undertakings (continued)

Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets – arising on acquisition
Intangible assets – computer software
Deferred tax assets
Trade and other receivables
Trade and other payables
Current tax liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Cash acquired

Net assets acquired
Goodwill

Consideration

Satisfied by:
Cash consideration
Deferred contingent consideration

Total consideration

Net cash outflow – arising on acquisitions
Cash consideration
Less: Cash and cash equivalents

Net cash outflow

Create NYC 
$’000

SmartAnalyst 
$’000

5
23,030
–
–
3,046
(738)
–
–
3,533

28,876
27,928

56,804

20,044
36,760

56,804

20,044
(3,533)

16,511

173
9,742
9
49
3,524
(2,509)
(50)
(2,435)
7,748

16,251
14,113

30,364

24,716
5,648

30,364

24,716
(7,748)

16,968

Total 
$’000

178
32,772
9
49
6,570
(3,247)
(50)
(2,435)
11,281

45,127
42,041

87,168

44,760
42,408

87,168

44,760
(11,281)

33,479

Goodwill is attributable to the future economic benefits arising from assets which are not capable of being individually identified and separately 
recognised. The significant factors giving rise to the goodwill include the value of the workforce and management teams within the businesses 
acquired, the enhancement of the competitive position of the Group in the marketplace and the strategic premium paid by UDG Healthcare plc 
to create the combined Group. The goodwill arising from acquisitions that is expected to be tax deductible is $27,928,000.

The intangible assets arising on the acquisitions are primarily related to trade names, client relationships, technology and client contracts 
(Note 14).

The gross contractual value of trade and other receivables are not different from fair value of trade and other receivables outlined  
in the table above. No contingent liabilities were recognised on the acquisitions completed during the financial year.

The total transaction related costs for completed and aborted acquisitions amount to $2,374,000 (2017: $4,028,000). These are presented 
separately in the Group Income Statement. 

Contingent consideration is payable to the sellers of Create NYC based on achievement of revenue and adjusted profit targets over a three-year 
and five-year performance period. Contingent consideration payable to the sellers of SmartAnalyst is based on the achievement of gross profit 
and adjusted profit targets over 18-month and 36-month performance periods. The fair value of contingent consideration recognised at the date 
of acquisition is calculated by discounting the expected future payment to present value at the acquisition date. For contingent consideration  
to become payable, the pre-defined results thresholds must be achieved by the acquired businesses. On an undiscounted basis, the future 
payments for which the Group may be liable in respect of current year acquisitions ranges from $nil to $47,378,000.

The Group’s results for the year ended 30 September 2018 included the following amounts in respect of the businesses acquired during the year: 

Revenue

Profit for the year

2018 
Total 
$’000

7,430

210

The proforma revenue and profit of the Group for the year ended 30 September 2018 would have been $1,336,483,000 and $3,018,000 
respectively had the acquisitions taken place at the start of the reporting period. The proforma results for the year includes the estimate of  
tax expense and amortisation of intangible assets recognised on acquisition.

140

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)30.  Employee Benefits 
The aggregate employee costs recognised in the Income Statement are as follows:

Wages and salaries
Social security contributions
Pension costs – defined contribution schemes
Pension costs – defined benefit schemes
Share-based payment expense
Termination benefits

2018 
$’000

524,481
57,242
11,313
1,445
6,643
13,057

614,181

2017 
$’000

447,088
51,233
9,515
(341)
3,613
–

511,108

During the year the Group capitalised employee costs amounting to $1,572,000 (2017: $2,702,000) relating to intangible assets – computer 
software. The Group also capitalised employee costs amounting to $904,000 (2017: $1,022,000) relating to tangible assets.

The average number of employees, including executive directors, during the year was as follows:

Marketing, distribution and selling
Operational 
Administration

2018 
Number

6,647
1,334
74

8,055

2017 
Number

6,570
1,275
76

7,921

A further 1,217 (2017: 1,191) personnel are employed in the Group’s joint ventures.

(i) Defined contribution schemes
The Group makes contributions to a number of defined contribution schemes, the assets of which are vested in independent trustees for the 
benefit of members and their dependants.

(ii) Defined benefit schemes
The following amounts were recognised on the Balance Sheet of the Group in respect of employee benefit schemes as at 30 September:

Employee benefit asset
Employee benefit liability

The Group operates a number of defined benefit schemes as at 30 September as follows:

United States defined benefit scheme (US scheme)
Republic of Ireland defined benefit schemes (ROI schemes)

Net surplus

2018 
$’000

12,935
–

12,935

2018 
$’000

11,273
1,662

12,935

2017 
$’000

12,379
(3,162)

9,217

2017 
$’000

12,379
(3,162)

9,217

On 1 April 2016 the Group completed the disposal of United Drug Supply Chain Services, United Drug Sangers, TCP Group and MASTA. Under 
the terms of the disposal, the Group retained responsibility for the funding requirements in respect of the ROI schemes. Pension accruals under 
the ROI schemes ceased on 31 December 2015. 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

141

30.  Employee Benefits (continued)
Each of the defined benefit schemes operated by the Group are funded by the payment of contributions to separately administered trust funds. 
The contributions to the schemes are determined with the advice of independent qualified actuaries obtained at regular intervals using the 
projected unit method of funding. Each defined benefit scheme is independently funded and the assets are vested in the independent trustees for 
the benefit of members and their dependants. The valuations are not available for public inspection but the results are advised to members of the 
schemes. The most recent full actuarial valuations for the principal schemes were conducted as at 31 December 2017 for the ROI schemes and 
1 January 2018 for the US scheme. Assumed medical costs are not a component of the pension obligations of any of the Group’s pension 
obligations. 

The principal long-term financial assumptions used by the Group’s actuaries in the computation of the defined benefit liabilities arising on 
pension schemes as at 30 September are as follows:

Increase in salaries
Increase in pensions
Inflation rate
Discount rate

ROI schemes 

US scheme

2018

2017

2018

2017

n/a
0–1.60%
1.60%
2.00%

n/a 2.75%–4.00%
0.00%
2.75%
4.10%

0–1.65%
1.65%
2.05%

2.75–4.00%
0.00%
2.75%
3.60%

The ROI schemes have a remeasurement gain in the current year which comprises of higher than expected returns on plan assets and changes in 
the assumptions used to measure liabilities of the plan. The US scheme has a remeasurement gain in the year arising from a higher than expected 
return on plan assets, and a change in financial assumptions. In the ROI schemes, there is no longer a salary increase assumption due to the 
accrual of pension benefit ceasing from 1 December 2015. 

All schemes used certain mortality rate assumptions when calculating scheme obligations. These are based on advice from published statistics 
and experience in each geographic region. These assumptions will continue to be monitored in light of general trends in mortality experience. 
The average life expectancy of a pensioner at age 65, in years, is as follows: 

Current pensioners
Male
Female

Future pensioners
Male
Female

The market value of the assets in the pension schemes at 30 September 2018 were:

Equities:
– Developed markets
– Emerging markets
Bonds:
– Government
– Non-government
Property
Cash

Fair value of scheme assets
Present value of scheme obligations

Employee benefits asset
Deferred income tax liability

Net asset

142

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

ROI schemes

US scheme

2018

2017

2018

21.0
24.6

21.4
25.2

%

51
2

29
17
–
1

100

21.5
24.0

23.9
26.0

%

12
–

56
–
2
30

100

21.4
23.9

23.8
25.9

ROI 
2018 
$’000

3,871
–

18,161
–
654
9,723

32,409
(30,747)

1,662
(390)

1,272

2017

21.1
24.7

21.5
25.3

US 
2018 
$’000

17,332
705

9,929
5,732
–
233

33,931
(22,658)

11,273
(2,540)

8,733

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)The market value of the assets in the pension schemes at 30 September 2017 were:

Equities:
– Developed markets
– Emerging markets
Bonds:
– Government
– Non-government
Property
Cash

Fair value of scheme assets
Present value of scheme obligations

Employee benefits (liability)/asset
Deferred income tax asset/(liability)

Net (liability)/asset

Movements in Fair Value of Plan Assets

At beginning of year
Interest income on plan assets
Employer contributions
Benefit payments
Return on plan assets excluding interest income
Settlements
Translation adjustment

At end of year

ROI 
2018 
$’000

34,292
723
2,578
(1,136)
359
(3,904)
(503)

32,409

Movements in Present Value of Defined Benefit Obligations

At beginning of year
Current service costs
Interest on scheme obligations
Benefit payments
Remeasurement (gain)/loss
Effect of changes in actuarial assumptions
Settlements 
Translation adjustment

At end of year

ROI 
2018
$’000

37,454
–
762
(1,136)
(551)
149
(5,492)
(439)

30,747

US 
2018 
$’000

32,488
969
–
(492)
966
–
–

33,931

US
2018
$’000

20,109
3,033
703
(492)
387
(1,082)
–
–

22,658

%

34
–

40
–
3
23

100

Total 
2018 
$’000

66,780
1,692
2,578
(1,628)
1,325
(3,904)
(503)

66,340

Total 
2018
$’000

57,563
3,033
1,465
(1,628)
(164)
(933)
(5,492)
(439)

53,405

ROI 
2017 
$’000

11,652
–

13,668
–
1,145
7,827

34,292
(37,454)

(3,162)
234

(2,928)

ROI 
2017 
$’000

39,457
429
4,218
(1,022)
2,068
(12,663)
1,805

34,292

ROI 
2017
$’000

59,899
–
638
(1,022)
(3,105)
(5,374)
(15,391)
1,809

37,454

%

49
2

31
18
–
–

100

US 
2017 
$’000

30,404
798
–
(496)
1,782
–
–

32,488

US 
2017
$’000

16,465
2,387
522
(496)
624
607
–
–

20,109

US 
2017 
$’000

15,889
657

10,153
5,761
–
28

32,488
(20,109)

12,379
(4,655)

7,724

Total 
2017 
$’000

69,861
1,227
4,218
(1,518)
3,850
(12,663)
1,805

66,780

Total 
2017 
$’000

76,364
2,387
1,160
(1,518)
(2,481)
(4,767)
(15,391)
1,809

57,563

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

143

30.  Employee Benefits (continued)
The remeasurement gain on the plan assets and present value of the defined benefit obligation are as follows:

Return on plan assets excluding interest income
Remeasurement gain on experience variations
Effect of changes in actuarial assumptions:
– Changes in demographic assumptions 
– Changes in financial assumptions 

Total included in Group Statement of Comprehensive Income

Defined Benefit Pension Credit/(Expense) Recognised in the Income Statement
The employee benefit credit/(expense) is analysed as:

Current service costs
Settlements
Interest cost on scheme obligations
Interest income on scheme assets

Current service costs
Settlements
Interest cost on scheme obligations
Interest income on scheme assets

2018 
$’000 

1,325
164

17
916

2,422

US 
2018 
$’000

(3,033)
–
(703)
969

(2,767)

US 
2017 
$’000

(2,387)
–
(522)
798

(2,111)

2017 
$’000 

3,850
2,481

29
4,738

11,098

Total 
2018 
$’000

(3,033)
1,588
(1,465)
1,692

(1,218)

Total 
2017 
$’000

(2,387)
2,728
(1,160)
1,227

408

ROI 
2018 
$’000

–
1,588
(762)
723

1,549

ROI 
2017 
$’000

–
2,728
(638)
429

2,519

Accrual of pension benefits within the ROI schemes ceased with effect from 31 December 2015.

During the current and prior year a general offer was made to the members of the ROI schemes to transfer their accrued benefits from the 
schemes in exchange for a fixed monetary amount. Acceptance of the offer was at the discretion of individual members and resulted in a 
settlement gain of $1,588,000 (2017: $2,728,000). 

The tax effect relating to these items is disclosed in Note 28.

The expected employer’s contribution for the year ended 30 September 2019 is $1,743,000.

Expected Maturity Analysis of Undiscounted Pension Benefits

Less than 
1 year 
$’000

912
1,892

2,804

868
1,326

2,194

Between 
1–2 years 
$’000

982
1,604

2,586

960
1,365

2,325

Between 
2–5 years 
$’000

Over 5 years 
$’000

3,235
6,069

9,304

3,223
5,145

8,368

6,057
88,302

94,359

6,199
80,181

86,380

Total 
$’000

11,186
97,867

109,053

11,250
88,017

99,267

ROI schemes
US scheme

At 30 September 2018

ROI schemes
US scheme

At 30 September 2017

144

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued) 
 
 
Sensitivity Analysis for Principal Assumptions Used to Measure Scheme Liabilities
There are inherent uncertainties surrounding the financial assumptions adopted in calculating the actuarial valuation of the Group’s defined 
benefit pension schemes. The following table analyses, for the Group’s pension schemes, the estimated impact on plan obligations resulting  
from changes to key actuarial assumptions, whilst holding all other assumptions constant. The impact on the defined benefit obligation at 
30 September 2018 is calculated on the basis that only one assumption is changed with all other assumptions remaining unchanged. The 
assessment of the sensitivity analysis below could therefore be limited as a change in one assumption may not occur in isolation as assumptions 
may be correlated.

Change in assumption 

Impact on ROI plan liabilities

Impact on US plan liabilities

Increase/Decrease by 0.25%
Increase/Decrease by 0.25%
Increase by one year

↑↓ by 4.4%
↑↓ by 2.0%
↑ by 3.9%

↑↓ by 2.0%
↑↓ by 0.0%
↑ by 0.3%

Assumption 

Discount rate
Price inflation 
Mortality 

Share-based Payment

Executive Share Option Plan expense
LTIP expense

Pre-exceptional Share-based payment expense
LTIP accelerated Share-based payment expense (Note 9)

Total share-based payment expense

2018 
$’000

176
4,893

5,069
1,574

6,643

2017 
$’000

163
3,450

3,613
–

3,613

$1,669,000 (2017: $863,000) of the total share-based payment expense recognised in the Group Income Statement relates to the directors.

Executive Share Option Plan/Executive Share Option Scheme
The company’s Executive Share Option Plan (ESOP) was established during 2010. Under the ESOP share options may be granted to 
management which may entitle them to purchase shares in the company so as to provide an incentive to perform strongly over an extended 
period and to encourage alignment of their interests with those of shareholders. Share options granted under the ESOP are exercisable for  
a period of four years from the third anniversary of the grant date, if adjusted diluted EPS growth is not less than the movement in the Irish 
Consumer Price Index, plus 3% compounded, over the performance period. There were no share options granted under the ESOP in the  
current year (2017: nil). In accordance with the terms of the ESOP, share options granted are exercisable at the market price of the underlying 
share on the last dealing day preceding the date of grant.

The number and weighted average exercise price of outstanding share options under the ESOP are as follows: 

Outstanding at beginning of year
Forfeited during the year
Exercised during the year

Outstanding at end of year

Exercisable at end of year

Weighted average 
exercise price 
2018  
$

Number of share 
options 
2018  
’000 

Weighted average 
exercise price 
2017 
$

Number of share 
options 
2017  
‘000

6.69
6.24
6.24

6.95

6.23

809
(28)
(270)

511

106

5.79
7.15
4.72

6.69

6.23

1,769
(123)
(837)

809

181

The weighted average share price at the date of exercise of share options during the year was $11.07 (2017: $9.05). The weighted average 
remaining contractual life for the share options outstanding at 30 September 2018 was 4.54 years (2017: 4.76 years).

At 30 September 2018, the range of exercise prices of outstanding share options was from $4.30 to $7.78 (2017: $4.30 to $7.78).

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

145

30.  Employee Benefits (continued)
Analysis of ESOP Share Options Outstanding at Year End
Share option by exercise price:

Total options outstanding – sterling denominated

Exercise price 
£

Number of options 
2018 
‘000

5.13
2.68
3.73

237
1
273

511

Number of 
options 
2017 
‘000

238
1
570

809

LTIP
The Company’s LTIP was established during 2010. The terms of share options granted under the LTIP during the year are set out in the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report on pages 79 to 91. During the year 690,672 (2017: 914,344) share options were granted under the LTIP. In accordance 
with the terms of the LTIP, share options awarded are exercisable at the nominal value of the underlying share as at the date of grant.

A summary of the details in respect of share options granted under the LTIP in 2018 and 2017 is set out below.

2018 
Non-market- 
based awards

2018 
Non-market- 
based awards

2018 
Market-based 
awards

2018 
Non-market- 
based awards

2018 
Market-based 
awards

23/05/2018
$11.09
$11.76
$0.06
23.0%
5 years
1.10%
Black-Scholes 
Option Pricing 
Model
3 years
3 years

26/02/2018
$11.21
$11.73
$0.06
23.0%
3 years
0.91%
Black-Scholes 
Option Pricing 
Model
3 years
3 years

05/12/2017
$5.54
$11.42
$0.06
19.32%
6 years
0.98%
Monte Carlo 
Simulation

3 years
5 years

05/12/2017
$10.57
$11.42
$0.06
19.32%
6 years
0.98%
Monte Carlo 
option pricing 
model
3 years
5 years

05/12/2017
$5.73
$11.42
$0.06
19.32%
4 years
0.71%
Monte Carlo 
Simulation

3 years
3 years

2018  
Non-market- based 
awards

2018
Market-based 
awards 

2018  
Non-market- 
based awards

2018  
Non-market- 
based awards

2018  
Non-market- 
based awards

05/12/2017
$10.88
$11.42
$0.06
19.32%
4 years
0.71%
Monte Carlo 
option pricing 
model
3 years
3 years

05/12/2017
$5.73
$11.42
$0.06
19.32%
5 years
0.89%
Monte Carlo 
Simulation

3 years
3 years

05/12/2017
$10.88
$11.42
$0.06
19.32%
5 years
0.89%
Monte Carlo 
option pricing 
model
3 years
3 years

05/12/2017
$10.79
$11.42
$0.06
19.32%
4 years
0.71%
Monte Carlo 
option pricing 
model
3 years
3 years

05/12/2017
$10.56
$11.42
$0.06
19.32%
5 years
0.89%
Monte Carlo 
option pricing 
model
3 years
3 years

Grant date
Fair value at grant date
Share price at grant date
Exercise price
Expected volatility
Expected life
Risk-free interest rate
Valuation model

Performance period
Vesting period

Grant date
Fair value at grant date
Share price at grant date
Exercise price
Expected volatility
Expected life
Risk-free interest rate
Valuation model

Performance period
Vesting period

146

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Grant date
Fair value at  
grant date
Share price at  
grant date
Exercise price
Expected volatility
Expected life
Risk-free interest rate
Valuation model

2017 
Market-based 
awards

2017 
Market-based 
awards 

2017 
Non-market-
based awards 

2017 
Market-based 
awards 

2017 
Market-based 
awards

2017 
Non-market-
based awards 

2017 
Market-based 
awards 

2017 
Non-market-
based awards

25/07/2017  25/05/2017
$6.53

$6.35

25/05/2017
$10.13

08/12/2016
$5.48

08/12/2016
$5.84

08/12/2016
$8.80

08/12/2016
$5.92

08/12/2016
$8.80

$10.86

$10.18

$10.18

$8.79

$8.79

$8.79

$8.79

$8.79

$0.06
21.59%
3 years
0.92%
Monte Carlo 
Simulation

$0.06
24.11%
5 years
0.59%
Monte Carlo 
Simulation

$0.06
24.11%
5 years
0.59%
Monte Carlo 
option pricing 
model
3 years
3 years

$0.05
37.91%
5 years
0.36%
Monte Carlo 
Simulation

$0.05
37.91%
6 years
0.49%
Monte Carlo 
Simulation

3 years
3 years

3 years
5 years

$0.05
37.91%
6 years
0.49%
Monte Carlo 
option pricing 
model
3 years
5 years

$0.05
37.91%
5 years
0.36%
Monte Carlo 
Simulation

3 years
3 years

$0.05
37.91%
5 years
0.36%
Monte Carlo 
option pricing 
model
3 years
3 years

Performance period
Vesting period

3 years
3 years

3 years
3 years

The number and weighted average exercise price of outstanding share options under the LTIP are as follows:

Outstanding at beginning of year
Forfeited during the year
Exercised during the year
Granted during the year

Outstanding at end of year

Exercisable at end of year

Weighted average 
exercise price 
2018 
$

Number of share 
options 
2018 
‘000

Weighted average 
exercise price 
2017 
$

Number of share 
options 
2017 
‘000

0.06
0.06
0.06
0.06

0.06

0.06

2,922
(259)
(116)
691

3,238

476

0.06
0.06
0.06
0.06

0.06

0.06

2,079
(71)
–
914

2,922

116

The weighted average share price at the date of exercise of share options during the year was $10.94 (2017: $nil). The weighted average 
remaining contractual life for the share options outstanding at 30 September 2018 was 4.35 years (2017: 4.86 years).

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

147

31.  Financial Instruments and Financial Risk
Fair Values Versus Carrying Amounts
The fair value of financial assets and liabilities together with the carrying amounts shown in the Balance Sheet are as follows:

30 September 2018

Trade and other receivables (Note 17)
Derivative financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other payables (Note 25)
Derivative financial liabilities 
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings (Note 24)
Finance lease liabilities (Note 24)
Deferred contingent consideration (Note 26)

30 September 2017

Trade and other receivables (Note 17)
Derivative financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other payables (Note 25)
Derivative financial liabilities 
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings (Note 24)
Finance lease liabilities (Note 24)
Deferred contingent consideration (Note 26)

Cash flow 
hedges 
$’000

–
1,860
–

1,860

–
319
–
–
–

319

Cash flow 
hedges 
$’000

–
2,581
–

2,581

–
352
–
–
–

352

Fair value 
through profit 
or loss 
$’000

–
944
–

944

–
–
–
–
96,915

96,915

Fair value 
through profit 
or loss 
$’000

–
1,171
–

1,171

–
–
–
–
71,878

71,878

Receivables 
$’000

318,339
–
180,099

498,438

–
–
–
–
–

–

Receivables 
$’000

289,311
–
187,469

476,780

–
–
–
–
–

–

Liabilities at 
amortised 
cost 
$’000

–
–
–

– 

163,646
–
243,318
53
–

407,017

Liabilities at 
amortised 
cost 
$’000

–
–
–

–

189,177
–
243,971
164
–

433,312

Total 
carrying 
value 
$’000

318,339
2,804
180,099

501,242

163,646
319
243,318
53
96,915

504,251

Total 
carrying 
value 
$’000

289,311
3,752
187,469

480,532

189,177
352
243,971
164
71,878

505,542

Fair value 
$’000

318,339
2,804
180,099

501,242

163,646
319
247,088
53
96,915

508,021

Fair value 
$’000

289,311
3,752
187,469

480,532

189,177
352
248,987
164
71,878

510,558

The fair values of the financial assets and liabilities not measured at fair value disclosed in the above tables have been determined using the 
methods and assumptions set out below. 

Trade and Other Receivables/Payables
For receivables and payables, the carrying value less impairment provision is deemed to reflect fair value, where appropriate.

Cash and Cash Equivalents
For cash and cash equivalents, the nominal amount is deemed to reflect fair value. 

Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings (Excluding Finance Lease Liabilities)
The fair value of interest-bearing loans and borrowings is based on the fair value of the expected future principal and interest cash flows 
discounted at interest rates effective at the balance sheet date and adjusted for movements in credit spreads.

Finance Lease Liabilities
For finance lease liabilities, fair value is the present value of future cash flows discounted at current market rates.

Valuation Techniques and Significant Unobservable Inputs
Fair Value Hierarchy of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value
The Group has adopted the following fair value hierarchy in relation to its financial instruments that are carried in the balance sheet at the fair 
values at the year end:
•  Level 1 – quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
•  Level 2 – inputs, other than quoted prices included within Level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability either directly (as prices)  

or indirectly (derived from prices); and

•  Level 3 – inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs).

148

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)The following table sets out the fair value of all financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value:

Fair value measurement as at 30 September 2018

Assets measured at fair value
Designated as hedging instruments
Cross-currency interest rate swaps

Liabilities measured at fair value
Designated hedging instruments 
Cross-currency interest rate swaps
At fair value through profit or loss
Deferred contingent consideration

Fair value measurement as at 30 September 2017

Assets measured at fair value
Designated as hedging instruments
Cross-currency interest rate swaps

Liabilities measured at fair value
Designated hedging instruments 
Cross-currency interest rate swaps
At fair value through profit or loss
Deferred contingent consideration

Derivative Financial Instruments

Derivative financial assets

Current
Non-current

Derivative financial liabilities
Non-current

Net derivative financial asset

Level 1 
$’000

Level 2 
$’000

Level 3 
$’000

Total 
$’000

–

–

–

–

–

2,804

2,804

319

–

319

–

–

–

96,915

96,915

2,804

2,804

319

96,915

97,234

Level 1 
$’000

Level 2 
$’000

Level 3 
$’000

Total 
$’000

–

–

–

–

–

3,752

3,752

352

–

352

–

–

–

71,878

71,878

2018 
$’000

2,474
330

2,804

319

319

2,485

3,752

3,752

352

71,878

72,230

2017 
$’000

2,450
1,302

3,752

352

352

3,400

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

149

31.  Financial Instruments and Financial Risk (continued)
Summary of derivatives:

Derivative financial assets
Derivative financial liabilities

Amount of 
financial assets/
liabilities as 
presented in the 
Balance Sheet 
$’000

2,804
319

Related amounts 
not offset in the 
Balance Sheet 
$’000

–
–

Amount of 
financial assets/
liabilities as 
presented in the 
Balance Sheet 
$’000

3,752
352

2018 
Net 
$’000

2,804
319

Related amounts 
not offset in the 
Balance Sheet 
$’000

–
–

2017 
Net 
$’000

3,752
352

All derivatives entered into by the Group are included in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and consist of cross-currency interest rate swaps.  
The fair value of cross-currency interest rate swaps are calculated at the present value of the estimated future cash flows based on the terms and 
maturity of each contract using forward currency rates and market interest rates as applicable for a similar instrument at the measurement date. 
Fair values reflect the credit risk of the instrument and include, where appropriate, adjustments to take account of the credit risk of the Group 
entity and counterparty.

The fair value of cross-currency interest rate swaps is the estimated amount that the Group would receive or pay to terminate the swap at the 
balance sheet date, taking into account current interest rates.

The swaps are a mixture of fixed to fixed and fixed to floating rate swaps. The Group classifies the fixed to floating swap as a fair value hedge  
and has stated it at its fair value with a corresponding opposite adjustment to the underlying debt for the risk being hedged. Both of these 
adjustments are recorded within the Income Statement and to the extent they do not offset, this represents the ineffective portion of the fair  
value hedge. The fair value of this swap at 30 September 2018 was a net asset of $944,000 (2017: net asset of $1,171,000).

The fixed to fixed rate cross-currency interest rate swaps are classified as cash flow hedges and are stated at their fair value. The fair value of 
these swaps at 30 September 2018 was a net asset of $1,541,000 (2017: net asset of $2,229,000), and the effective portion of this adjustment  
was accounted for in the cash flow hedge reserve. 

The interest element of the cash flow hedges will be recognised in the Income Statement in the periods to 30 September 2025, as the associated 
interest on the hedged debt is recognised.

Deferred Contingent Consideration
Deferred contingent consideration is included in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Details of the movement in the year are included in Note 26. 
The fair value is determined considering the expected payment, discounted to present value using a risk adjusted discount rate. The expected 
payment is determined separately in respect of each individual earn-out agreement taking into consideration the expected level of profitability  
of each acquisition. The provision for deferred contingent consideration is principally in respect of acquisitions completed during 2016 to 2018.

The significant unobservable inputs are:
• 
•  risk adjusted discount rate 0.02%–2.75% (2017: 0.02%–1.55%). 

forecast weighted average EBIT growth rate 24% (2017: 26%); and

Inter-relationship Between Significant Unobservable Inputs and Fair Value Measurement
The estimated fair value would increase/(decrease) if:
the EBIT growth rate was higher/(lower); and
• 
the risk adjusted discount rate was lower/(higher).
• 

For the fair value of deferred contingent consideration, a reasonably possible change to one of the significant unobservable inputs at 
30 September 2018, holding the other inputs constant, would have the following effects: 

Effect of change in assumption on income statement:
Annual EBIT growth rate (1% movement)
Risk-adjusted discount rate (1% movement)

Increase 
$’000

Decrease 
$’000

134
655

(134)
(522)

150

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Capital Management
The Board considers capital to consist of equity (share capital, share premium and retained earnings) and net debt. The Board’s policy is to 
maintain a strong capital base to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain the ongoing development of the Group. The 
directors periodically review the capital structure of the Group, considering the cost of capital and the risks associated with each class of capital. 
The Board monitors the return on equity generated by the Group and the level of dividends paid to shareholders. There were no changes to the 
Board’s approach to capital management during the year. 

Capital and reserves attributable to the equity holders of the Company
Net debt

Capital and net debt

2018 
$’000

885,172
60,787

945,959

2017 
$’000

880,547
53,266

933,813

Financial Ratios
Financial covenants in our principal debt facilities are based on net debt to EBITDA being less than 3.5 times and EBITDA interest cover being 
greater than three times.

Net debt to EBITDA
EBITDA interest cover

2018 
Times

0.34
22.0

2017 
Times

0.32
16.3

Financial Risk Management
The Group’s multinational operations expose it to different financial risks that include foreign exchange rate risks, credit risks, liquidity risks  
and interest rate risks. The Group has a risk management programme in place which seeks to limit the impact of these risks on the financial 
performance of the Group. The Board has determined the policies for managing these risks as set out below.

Credit Risk
The Group has detailed procedures for monitoring and managing the credit risk related to its trade receivables based on experience, clients’ 
track record and historic default rates. Individual credit limits are generally set by client and credit is only extended above such limits in defined 
circumstances. 

The Group establishes an allowance for impairment that represents the best estimate of incurred losses in respect of trade and other receivables 
(Note 17). Where the Group is satisfied that no recovery of the amount owing is possible, the amount is considered irrecoverable and is written 
off directly against the receivable. 

At the balance sheet date there were no significant concentrations of credit risk. The maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the 
carrying amount of each financial asset.

Interest Rate Risk
The majority of the Group’s ongoing operations are financed from a mixture of cash generated from operations and borrowings. Other than the 
US dollar private placement borrowings which are secured at fixed interest rates, borrowings are initially secured at floating interest rates and 
interest rate risk is monitored on an ongoing basis.

A reduction of one hundred basis points in interest rates at the reporting date would have increased profit before tax by the amounts shown 
below assuming all other variables including foreign currency rates remain constant. An increase of 100 basis points on the same basis would 
reduce profit before tax by $145,000 (2017: $261,000).

Effect of reduction of one hundred basis points:

Profit before tax

2018 
$’000

145

2017 
$’000

261

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

151

31.  Financial Instruments and Financial Risk (continued)
Currency Risk
Structural Currency Risk
A significant proportion of the Group’s operations are carried out in the UK and Europe and as a result the Group is exposed to structural 
currency fluctuations in respect of sterling and the euro. Where practical, the Group finances investments through borrowings denominated  
in the same currency in which the related cash flows will be generated. To the extent that the non-US dollar-denominated assets and liabilities  
of the Group do not offset, the Group is exposed to structural currency risk. Such movements are reported through the Group Statement  
of Comprehensive Income.

Euro and sterling-denominated profits are translated into US dollars at the average rate of exchange for the financial year. The average rate  
at which euro profits were translated during the year was $1:€0.8403 (2017: $1:€0.9047) and sterling profits were translated at $1:£0.7436  
(2017: $1:£0.7891). 

The Group is also subject to translational currency risk on the translation of profits earned outside of the US.

Transactional Currency Risk
The euro is the principal currency of the Group’s Irish and Continental European businesses, sterling is the principal currency for the Group’s  
UK businesses and the US dollar is the principal currency for the Group’s US businesses. The Group ensures that its net exposure is kept to an 
acceptable level by buying or selling foreign currencies at spot and forward rates where necessary. Details of the Group’s transactional foreign 
currency risk at 30 September 2018 and 2017 arising from foreign currency transactions are set out in the table below.

Cash and cash equivalents
Trade receivables
Trade and other payables

Cash and cash equivalents
Trade receivables
Trade and other payables

Euro 
2018 
$’000

483
11,760
(1,996)

10,247

Euro 
2017 
$’000

3,906
6,521
(3,755)

6,672

Sterling 
2018 
$’000

167
692
(311)

548

Sterling 
2017 
$’000

2,349
397
(945)

1,801

US dollar 
2018 
$’000

1,330
8,611
(452)

9,489

US dollar 
2017 
$’000

3,385
4,137
(3,131)

4,391

Total 
2018 
$’000

1,980
21,063
(2,759)

20,284

Total 
2017 
$’000

9,640
11,055
(7,831)

12,846

Sensitivity Analysis on Transactional Currency Risk
For the purposes of performing sensitivity analysis on transactional currency risk, financial assets and liabilities outstanding at the balance sheet 
date denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of individual entities, have been aggregated by currency and the impact of a 
5% strengthening of the US dollar against the relevant currency calculated. This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular interest 
rates, remain constant.

Euro:
Based on the value of euro-denominated financial assets and liabilities held by individual entities with a functional currency other than the euro,  
a 5% strengthening of the US dollar against the euro at 30 September 2018 and 30 September 2017 would have increased equity and profit after 
tax by the amounts shown below:

Profit after tax

2018 
$’000

439

2017 
$’000

292

Sterling:
Based on the value of sterling-denominated financial assets and liabilities held by individual entities with a functional currency other than sterling, 
a 5% strengthening of the US dollar against sterling at 30 September 2018 and 30 September 2017 would not have had a material effect on equity 
or profit after tax of the Group.

152

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Funding and Liquidity
Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Group uses a combination of long and 
short-term debt and cash and cash equivalents to meet its liabilities as they fall due. This is in addition to the Group’s strong cash flow generation. 
The Group believes it has sufficient cash resources and bank debt facilities at its disposal, which provides flexibility in financing existing 
operations, acquisitions and other developments.

The following are the undiscounted contractual maturities of financial instruments, including interest payments and excluding the impact of 
netting arrangements:

30 September 2018

Non-derivative financial instruments
Bank borrowings
Finance leases
Floating rate unsecured guaranteed senior notes
Fixed rate unsecured guaranteed senior notes
Trade and other payables
Deferred contingent consideration
Derivative financial instruments
Cash flow hedges
Fair value hedges

30 September 2017

Non-derivative financial instruments
Bank borrowings
Finance leases
Floating rate unsecured guaranteed senior notes
Fixed rate unsecured guaranteed senior notes
Trade and other payables
Deferred contingent consideration
Derivative financial instruments
Cash flow hedges
Fair value hedges

Carrying 
amount 
$’000

Contractual 
cash flow 
$’000

6 months 
or less 
$’000

6–12 
months 
$’000

Between 
1–2 years 
$’000

Between 
2–5 years 
$’000

More than 
5 years 
$’000

327
53
15,090
227,901
163,646
96,915

357
55
14,565
247,929
163,646
102,052

357
33
101
3,979
163,646
26,803

–
13
101
3,979
–
2,800

–
9
14,363
55,066
–
27,792

–
–
–
125,073
–
44,657

–
–
–
59,832
–
–

(1,541)
(944)

(1,685)
(971)

(27)
(7)

(27)
(7)

(374)
(957)

(850)
–

(407)
–

501,447

525,948

194,885

6,859

95,899

168,880

59,425

Carrying 
amount 
$’000

Contractual 
cash flow 
$’000

6 months 
or less 
$’000

6–12 
months 
$’000

Between 
1–2 years 
$’000

Between 
2–5 years 
$’000

More than 
5 years 
$’000

70
164
15,545
228,356
189,177
71,878

73
169
15,002
260,304
189,177
73,076

73
70
103
4,042
189,177
1,119

–
64
103
4,042
–
12,794

–
35
14,796
58,136
–
43,002

–
–
–
17,657
–
16,161

–
–
–
176,427
–
–

(2,229)
(1,171)

(2,559)
(1,220)

(40)
(8)

(40)
(8)

(572)
(1,204)

(174)
–

(1,733)
–

501,790

534,022

194,536

16,955

114,113

33,644

174,694

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

153

31.  Financial Instruments and Financial Risk (continued)
Maturity Profile of Net Debt
In respect of income-earning financial assets and interest-bearing financial liabilities, the following table indicates their effective interest rates at 
the balance sheet date and the periods in which they mature.

30 September 2018

Cash at bank and short-term deposits

Other loans and borrowings

Finance leases

Floating rate unsecured guaranteed senior notes
Fixed rate unsecured guaranteed senior notes

Total loan notes

Total before derivatives

Derivatives

Net (debt)/cash

30 September 2017

Cash at bank and short-term deposits

Other loans and borrowings

Finance leases

Floating rate unsecured guaranteed senior notes
Fixed rate unsecured guaranteed senior notes

Total loan notes

Total before derivatives

Derivatives

Net (debt)/cash

Effective 
interest rate

Total 
$’000

Less than 
1 year 
$’000

Between 
1–2 years 
$’000

Between 
2–5 years 
$’000

More than 
5 years 
$’000

1.18%

18.00%

1.51%

1.43%
3.78%

180,099

180,099

(327)

(53)

(15,090)
(227,901)

(242,991)

(327)

(45)

28
72

100

–

–

(8)

–

–

–

(15,118)
(49,927)

–
(118,729)

(65,045)

(118,729)

(63,272)

179,827

(65,053)

(118,729)

2,485

2,474

1,697

111

–

–

–

–
(59,317)

(59,317)

(59,317)

(1,797)

(60,787)

182,301

(63,356)

(118,618)

(61,114)

Effective 
interest rate

Total 
$’000

Less than 
1 year 
$’000

Between 
1–2 years 
$’000

Between 
2–5 years 
$’000

More than 
5 years 
$’000

0.33%

7.00%

1.51%

1.29%
3.73%

187,469

187,469

(70)

(164)

(15,545)
(228,356)

(243,901)

(70)

(130)

17
125

142

(56,666)

187,411

3,400

2,450

(53,266)

189,861

–

–

(34)

6
89

95

61

1,299

1,360

–

–

–

–

–

–

(15,568)
(49,794)

–
(178,776)

(65,362)

(178,776)

(65,362)

(178,776)

3,713

(4,062)

(61,649)

(182,838)

The effect of the derivatives included above has been to swap US dollar-denominated debt to euro-denominated debt and to partially swap fixed 
rate interest into floating rate interest.

154

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Movements of Liabilities Within Cash Flows from Financing Activities

At the beginning of the year 
Changes from financing cash flows:
– Repayments of interest-bearing loans and borrowings
– Proceeds from interest-bearing loans and borrowings
– Capital repayments of finance leases
Currency translation adjustment

At end of year

Presented as
Current 
Non-current

2018

2017

Interest-bearing 
loans and liabilities 
2018 
$’000

Interest-bearing 
loans and liabilities
2017 
$’000

244,135

306,990

(2,118)
2,507
(111)
(1,042)

(63,266)
–
(3)
414

243,371

244,135

272
243,099

243,371

58
244,077

244,135

32.  Capital Commitments
Capital expenditure authorised but not contracted for amounted to $8,502,000 (2017: $18,900,000) at the balance sheet date. 

33.  Related Parties
The Group trades in the normal course of business with its joint venture undertakings. The aggregate value of these transactions is not material 
in the context of the Group’s financial results. 

Magir Limited, the Group’s joint venture investment, has been classified as an asset held for sale at 30 September 2018. The Group has provided 
a loan to Magir, gross of interest, of Stg£11,371,000 (2017: Stg£10,997,000). 

IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures requires the disclosure of compensation paid to the Group’s key management personnel. Key management 
personnel are those persons having authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the Group. UDG 
Healthcare plc classifies directors, the Company Secretary and members of its SET as key management personnel. The SET is the body of senior 
executives that formulates business strategy along with the directors, follows through on implementation of that strategy and directs and 
controls the activities of the Group on a day-to-day basis. 

In addition to the executive directors, the following individuals were members of the SET during the year ended 30 September 2018: 

Name 

Eleanor Garvey
Eimear Kenny
Liam Logue
Mike O’Hara
Damien Moynagh 
Julian Tompkins
Doug Burcin
Rob Wood
Sean Coyle
Jez Moulding

Title

Group Head of Quality and Compliance
Group Head of Human Resources
Executive Vice President, Corporate Development
Managing Director of Sharp 
General Counsel and Company Secretary
President of Ashfield Commercial and Clinical
President of Ashfield Healthcare Communications
Global President of Advisory Services and Business Development
Managing Director of Aquilant and Group Finance Director
Executive Vice President of Ashfield and Group Chief Operating Officer

Remuneration of Key Management Personnel

Salaries and other short-term benefits
Post-employment benefits
Share-based payment (calculated in accordance with the principles disclosed in Note 30)
Termination benefits

2018 
$’000

7,480
966
3,588
559

2017 
$’000

7,882
882
1,823
–

12,593

10,587

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

155

33.  Related Parties (continued)
Details of the remuneration of the Group’s individual directors, together with the number of UDG Healthcare plc shares owned by them and their 
outstanding share options, are set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Report.

34.  Contingent Liabilities
The Group is subject to various claims that arise in the ordinary course of business. During the year, the Group received a claim from McKesson 
arising from its purchase of United Drug from the Group in 2016. At present, while the Group continues to engage with McKesson to investigate 
the claim, the merit of the claim, likely outcome, timing and potential impact on the Group cannot be determined. Accordingly, and as a result of 
these uncertainties, the Group cannot make any assessment of the likely outcome or estimate the financial effect of any such claim as at the date 
of approval of the financial statements. 

35.  Events After the Balance Sheet Date 
There have been no significant events after the balance sheet date which require disclosure.

156

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Group Financial Statements (continued)Company Statement of Comprehensive Income
for the year end 30 September 2018

Profit for the financial year
Other comprehensive income/(expense):
Company defined benefit pension schemes:
– Remeasurement gain on defined benefit pension schemes
– Deferred tax on defined benefit pension schemes

Other comprehensive income for the financial year

Total comprehensive income for the financial year

Note

43
38

2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

31,526

76,437

–
–

–

9,542
(354)

9,188

31,526

85,625

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

157

Company Statement of Changes in Equity
for the year ended 30 September 2018

At 1 October 2017

12,792

164,525

56,895

365,175

599,387

Equity share 
capital 
€’000

Share premium 
€’000

Other reserves 
€’000

Retained earnings 
€’000

Total equity 
€’000

Profit for the financial year
Other comprehensive income/(expense):

Total comprehensive income for the year
Transactions with shareholders:
New shares issued
Share-based payment expense
Dividends paid to equity holders
Release from share-based payment reserve

–

–

19
–
–
–

–

–

1,127
–
–
–

–

–

31,526

31,526

31,526

31,526

–
5,582
–
(824)

–
–
(28,945)
824

1,146
5,582
(28,945)
–

At 30 September 2018

12,811

165,652

61,653

368,580

608,696

for the year ended 30 September 2017

Equity share 
capital 
€’000

Share premium 
€’000

Other reserves 
€’000

Retained earnings 
€’000

Total equity 
€’000

At 1 October 2016

12,715

156,084

54,123

308,038

530,960

Profit for the financial year
Other comprehensive income/(expense):
Remeasurement gain on defined benefit pension schemes
Deferred tax on defined benefit pension schemes

Total comprehensive income for the year
Transactions with shareholders:
New shares issued
Issued in business combination
Share-based payment expense
Dividends paid to equity holders
Release from share-based payment reserve

–

–
–

–

41
36
–
–
–

–

–
–

–

2,831
5,610
–
–
–

–

–
–

–

–
–
3,269
–
(497)

At 30 September 2017

12,792

164,525

56,895

76,437

76,437

9,542
(354)

9,542
(354)

85,625

85,625

–
–
–
(28,985)
497

365,175

2,872
5,646
3,269
(28,985)
–

599,387

158

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Company Balance Sheet
as at 30 September 2018

ASSETS
Non-current
Investment in subsidiary undertakings

Total non-current assets

Current
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalents

Total current assets

Total assets

EQUITY
Equity share capital
Share premium
Other reserves
Retained earnings

Capital and reserves attributable to equity holders of the parent

LIABILITIES
Current
Trade and other payables
Current income tax liabilities

Total current liabilities

Total liabilities

Total equity and liabilities

Note

37

39

40
40

42

2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

291,486

291,486

393,345
34,567

427,912

719,398

12,811
165,652
61,653
368,580

608,696

110,054
648

110,702

110, 702

719,398

289,593

289,593

369,347
44,634

413,981

703,574

12,792
164,525
56,895
365,175

599,387

103,249
938

104,187

104,187

703,574

As permitted by section 304 of the Companies Act 2014, the company is availing of the exemption from presenting its separate Income Statement 
in the financial statements and from filing it with the Registrar of Companies. The company’s profit for the financial year is €31,526,000  
(2017: €76,437,000). 

On behalf of the Board

P. Gray 
Director 

B. McAtamney
Director

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

159

 
2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

31,235
(6)
12
–

31,241
(4,259)
(17,464)
18,944
(12)
–

28,450

6
–
–
(13,162)
2,438

76,596
(1)
191
7,678 

84,464
(6,190)
(17,234)
–
(2)
962

62,000

1
1,084
5,647
(116,051)
–

(10,718)

(109,319)

1,146
(28,945)

(27,799)

(10,067)
44,634

34,567

2,872
(28,985)

(26,113)

(73,432)
118,066

44,634

34,567

34,567

44,634

44,634

Company Cash Flow Statement
for the year ended 30 September 2018

Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before tax
Finance income
Finance expense
Transfer of defined benefit pension obligations

Operating profit
Increase in trade and other receivables
Decrease in trade payables, provisions and other payables
Loss on disposal of investments
Interest paid
Income taxes received

Net cash inflow from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities
Interest received
Disposal of property, plant and equipment
Disposal of intangible assets – computer software
Investment in subsidiary undertakings
Disposal of investment in subsidiary undertakings

Net cash outflow from investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issue of shares (including share premium thereon)
Dividends paid to equity holders of the company

Net cash outflow from financing activities

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

Cash and cash equivalents is comprised of:
Cash at bank and short-term deposits

160

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Notes forming part of the Company Financial Statements

36.  Loss on Disposal
On 8 August 2018 the Group completed the disposal of Aquilant.

UDG Healthcare plc was the immediate parent of Aquilant Scientific (ROI) Limited and Aquilant Analytical Sciences Limited. The below table 
outlines the loss on disposal which was recognised in the Company’s income statement during the year.

Cash consideration
Deferred consideration

Total consideration received 

Disposal of investments
Disposal costs

Loss on disposal 

37.  Investment in Subsidiary Undertakings

Cost
At beginning of year
Additions in year
Disposals in year
Impairment
Share options granted to employees of subsidiary undertakings

At end of year

2018 
€’000

2,438
65

2,503

(21,292)
(155)

(18,944)

2017 
€’000

–
–

–

–
–

–

2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

289,593
37,276
(40,965)
–
5,582

291,486

152,193
134,131
–
–
3,269

289,593

The additions to investment in subsidiary undertakings during the year of €37,276,000, were comprised of cash consideration of €13,162,000 
and non-cash considerations of €24,114,000. 

In the prior year, the additions to investment in subsidiary undertakings during the year of €134,131,000, were comprised primarily of cash 
consideration. 

The disposal during the year related to Aquilant of €21,292,000 and other subsidiary undertakings of €19,673,000.

38.  Deferred Income Tax Assets

At beginning of year

Temporary differences – arising in income
Employee benefits – arising in other comprehensive income

At end of year

39.  Trade and Other Receivables

Current
Amounts due from subsidiary undertakings
Other receivables
Prepayments 

Amounts due from subsidiary undertakings are repayable on demand.

2018 
$’000

–

–
–

–

2017 
$’000

1,336

(982)
(354)

–

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

393,161
184
–

393,345

368,712
635
–

369,347

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

161

Notes forming part of the Company Financial Statements (continued)

40.  Capital and Reserves

At 30 September 2016
Profit for the financial year
Release from share-based payment reserve
Dividends paid to equity holders
Remeasurement loss on defined benefit pension scheme
Deferred tax on defined benefit pension scheme
Share-based payment expense

At 30 September 2017
Profit for the financial year
Release from share-based payment reserve
Dividends paid to equity holders
Share-based payment expense

At 30 September 2018

Other reserves 
€’000

Retained earnings 
€’000

54,123
–
(497)
–
–
–
3,269

56,895
–
(824)
–
5,582

308,038
76,437
497
(28,985)
9,542
(354)
–

365,175
31,526
824
(28,945)
–

61,653

368,580

Other reserves represents a share-based payment reserve of €11,570,000 (2017: €6,812,000), a treasury shares reserve of (€5,742,000) (2017: 
(€5,742,000)), a goodwill reserve of (€93,000) (2017: (€93,000)), a non-distributable reserve of €55,668,000 (2017: €55,668,000) and a 
capital redemption reserve of €250,000 (2017: €250,000).

The Company’s non-distributable reserve consists of €16,762,000 (2017: €16,762,000) transferred from the share premium account against 
which goodwill, arising from acquisitions in financial periods prior to 1 October 1999, is offset on consolidation and a transfer from the income 
statement of €38,906,000 (2017: €38,906,000), arising on the restructuring of Group activities.

Details of equity share capital are set out in Note 18.

41.  Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings
Details of how the Company manages risk exposures and accounts for financial instruments are set out in Note 31.

Foreign Currency Risk Management
The majority of trade conducted by the Company is in euro. Therefore, the level of transactional foreign exchange exposure is not material  
to the Company.

Funding and Liquidity
The following are the undiscounted contractual maturities of financial instruments, including interest payments and excluding the impact of 
netting arrangements:

30 September 2018

Trade and other payables

30 September 2017

Trade and other payables

Carrying 
amount 
€’000

110,054

110,054

Carrying 
amount 
€’000

103,249

103,249

Contractual 
cash flow 
€’000

110,054

110,054

Contractual 
cash flow 
€’000

103,249

103,249

6 months 
or less 
€’000

110,054

110,054

6 months 
or less 
€’000

103,249

103,249

6–12 
months 
€’000

–

–

6–12 
months 
€’000

–

–

Between 
1–2 years 
€’000

Between 
2–5 years 
€’000

–

–

–

–

Between 
1–2 years 
€’000

Between 
2–5 years 
€’000

–

–

–

–

162

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report 42.  Trade and Other Payables

Current
Amounts due to subsidiary undertakings
Accruals 

Amounts due to subsidiary undertakings are repayable on demand.

43.  Employee Benefits
The aggregate employee costs recognised in the income statement are as follows:

Wages and salaries
Social security contributions
Pension costs – defined contribution schemes

The average number of employees, including executive directors, during the year was as follows:

Administration

2018 
€’000

2017 
€’000

109,889
165

110,054

103,089
160

103,249

2018 
€’000

216
6
8

230

2017 
€’000

270
14
9

293

2018 
Number

2017 
Number

2

2

2

2

(i)  Defined Contribution Schemes
The Company makes contributions to a number of defined contribution schemes, the assets of which are vested in independent trustees  
for the benefit of members and their dependants.

(ii) Defined Benefit Schemes
On 30 September 2017, the Company transferred the duties and obligations of the schemes to UDG Healthcare Ireland Limited by executing  
a deed of substitution.

The principal long-term financial assumptions used by the Company’s actuaries in the computation of the defined benefit liabilities arising  
on pension schemes as at 30 September 2017 are as follows:

Increase in salaries
Increase in pensions
Inflation rate
Discount rate

The composition of the Company scheme assets in the prior year is detailed below.

Movements in Fair Value of Plan Assets

At beginning of year
Interest income on plan assets
Employer contributions
Benefit payments
Return on plan assets excluding interest income
Settlements
Transfer of plan assets to subsidiary undertaking

At end of year

2018

2017

–
–
–
–

n/a 
0–1.65%
1.65%
2.05%

2018 
$’000

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–

2017 
$’000

35,352
388
3,816
(925)
1,871
(11,457)
(29,045)

–

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

163

Notes forming part of the Company Financial Statements (continued)

43.  Employee Benefits (continued)
Movements in Present Value of Defined Benefit Obligations

At beginning of year
Interest cost on scheme obligations
Revaluation gain on experience variations
Benefit payments
Effect of changes in actuarial assumptions
Settlements
Transfer of defined benefit obligations to subsidiary undertaking

At end of year

Reconciliation of the measurement gain to the plan assets and present value of the defined benefit obligation is as follows:

Remeasurement gain on experience variations
Return on plan assets excluding interest cost
Effect of changes in actuarial assumptions:
– Changes in financial assumptions

Total included in Company statement of comprehensive income

2018 
$’000

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–

2018 
$’000

–
–

–

–

2017 
$’000

53,667
577
(2,809)
(925)
(4,862)
(13,925)
(31,723)

–

2017 
$’000

2,809
1,871

4,862

9,542

44.  Related Party Transactions
The Company has related party relationships with its subsidiaries and with the directors of the Company. Details of the remuneration of the 
Company’s individual directors, together with the number of shares in the Company owned by them and their outstanding share options,  
are set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Report.

Transactions with Subsidiary Undertakings
Details of balances outstanding with subsidiary undertakings are provided in Notes 39 and 42. 

IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures requires the disclosure of compensation paid to the Company’s key management personnel. The details on key 
management personnel are outlined in Note 33. 

In 2015 the Company transferred a significant element of its business activities to a subsidiary, UDG Healthcare Ireland Limited. The key 
management personnel engaged in the business throughout the year were employed by UDG Healthcare Ireland Limited. 

45.  Principal Subsidiaries
Incorporated in the ROI

Name

Ashfield Healthcare (Ireland) Limited
UDG Healthcare Ayrtons (Dublin) Limited*
UDG Healthcare Finance Limited*
UDG Healthcare (US) Holdings Limited*
UDG Healthcare Distributors Limited* 
UDG Healthcare Ireland Limited
United Care Limited

Nature of business

Contract sales outsourcing
Investment holding company
Financial services
Investment holding company
Investment holding company
Investment holding company
Investment holding company

Group share

100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%

All of the above companies have their registered office at 20 Riverwalk, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24, NR23 D24.

All shares held are ordinary shares.

*   Subsidiary undertakings owned directly by UDG Healthcare plc.

164

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Incorporated in the UK

Name

Ashfield Healthcare Limited 1
Ashfield Insight & Performance Limited 1
Ashfield Meetings & Events Limited 1
Galliard Healthcare Communications Limited 1
Ashfield Healthcare Communications Group Limited 1
Pegasus Public Relations Limited 1
Sharp Clinical Services (UK) Limited 1
UDG Healthcare (UK) Holdings Limited 1
STEM Healthcare Limited 2

Nature of business

Group share

100%
Contract sales outsourcing
100%
Sales force effectiveness training services provider
100%
Event management services provider
Specialist healthcare and scientific public relations provider
100%
Healthcare communications and consultancy services provider 100%
100%
Healthcare communications provider
100%
Clinical trials services provider
100%
Investment holding company
100%
Commercial, marketing and medical audit services provider

This company has its registered office at Ashfield House, Resolution Road, Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire, LE65 1HW.

1 
2  This company has its registered office at 1.04 Power Road Studios, 114 Power Road, Chiswick, London W4 5PY.

Incorporated in Continental Europe

Name

Nature of business

Group share

Ashfield Healthcare GmbH 4
Ashfield Healthcare GmbH 5
Ashfield Iberia SLU 6
Ashfield Nordic AB 7
Ashfield S.A 8
Ashfield Saglik Hizmetleei Ticaret Limited Sirketi 9
Enestia Belgium N.V. 10
European Packaging Centre B.V. 3
Ashfield Iberia Lda 11
UDG Healthcare Holdings B.V. 3
Sellxpert GmbH & Co KG 12
Selldirekt GmbH 12
Physicians World GmbH 13

Contract sales outsourcing 
Contract sales outsourcing 
Contract sales outsourcing 
Pharmaceutical sales and marketing company 
Contract sales outsourcing 
Pharmaceutical sales and marketing company 
Packaging solutions provider
Contract packaging company
Contract sales outsourcing 
Investment holding company
Contract sales outsourcing 
Contract sales outsourcing
Medical Communications business

3  This company has its registered office at Neptunus, 8448 CN Heerenveen, the Netherlands.
4  This company has its registered office at Euro Plaza, Gebaude F, Technologiestrabe 5, 4. OG, 1120 Vienna, Austria.
5  This company has its registered office at Goldbeckstrasse 5, 69493 Hirschberg, Germany.
6  This company has its registered office at Calle Quintanavides 13, Parque Empresarial Vía Norte, Edificio 1-2a planta, 28050 Madrid, Spain.
7  This company has its registered office at Luntmakargatan 66, 5van, 11351 Stockholm, Sweden.
8  This company has its registered office at Foundation Plaza, Building 501, Belgicastraat 1, 1930 Zaventum, Belgium.
9   This company has its registered office at Büyükdere Caddesi Yapı Kredi Plaza B Blok K:12/D:29 34330 Levent/Istanbul.
10  This company has its registered office at Klocknerslyaat 1, 3930 Hamont-Achel, Belguim.
11   This company has its registered office at Avenida Dom João Ii, Nº 44c – 2.3 Edificio Atlantis, Parque Das Naçoes, 1990–095 Lisboa, Portugal.
12  This company has its registered office at Gutenbergstr. 4, Speyer, 67346 Germany.
13  This company has its registered office at Hauptsr. 161, 68259 Mannheim, Germany.

100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

165

Notes forming part of the Company Financial Statements (continued)

45.  Principal Subsidiaries (continued)
Incorporated in North America

Name

Nature of business

Group share

Ashfield Healthcare LLC 14
Ashfield Healthcare Canada Inc 15

Ashfield Healthcare Communications LLC 18 
Ashfield Meetings & Events Inc. 27
Ashfield Pharmacovigilance, Inc. 16
Informed Direct, Inc. 17
Sharp Clinical Services, Inc. 19
Sharp Corporation 20
Sharp Bethlehem, LLC 22
Vynamic LLC 23
Cambridge BioMarketing Group, LLC 24
MicroMass Communications, Inc. 21
UDG Healthcare US Holdings, Inc. 22
Smart Analyst, Inc 25
Create Group NYC 26

100%

Pharmaceutical sales and marketing company
Marketing, communications and sample and promotional 
material management services provider
100%
Healthcare communications and consultancy services provider 100%
100%
Event management services provider
Safety and risk management services provider
100%
Healthcare communications and consultancy services provider 100%
100%
Clinical trials services provider
100%
Contract packaging company
100%
Contract packaging company
100%
Management consulting 
100%
Healthcare communications business
100%
Healthcare communications business
100%
Investment holding company
100%
Commercialisations, consulting and analytics business
100%
Communications agency

14  This company has its registered office at 1100 Virginia Drive, Suite 200, Ft. Washington, Pennsylvania 19034.
15  This company has its registered office at 263 Labrosse Avenue, Pointe-Claire, Quebec H9R 1A3.
16  This company has its registered office at 5003 South Miami Blvd, Suite 500, Durham, North Carolina 27703.
17  This company has its registered office at 7 Island Dock Road, Suite A, Haddam, Connecticut 06438.
18  This company has its registered office at 125 Chubb Avenue, Lyndhurst, New Jersey 07071.
19  This company has its registered office at 300 Kimberton Road, Phoenixville, Pennslyvania, 19460.
20  This company has its registered office at 23 Carland Road, Conshohocken, Pennslyvania, 19428.
21  This company has its registered office at 100 Regency Forest Drive, Suite 400, Cary, NC, 27518.
22  This company has its registered office at 7451 Keebler Way, Allentown, 18106.
23  This company has its registered office at 1600 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
24  This company has its registered office at 245 First Street, 12th Floor, Cambridge, MA 02142.
25  This company has its registered office at 9 East 38th Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10016.
26  This company has its registered office at 180 Varick Street, Suite 212, New York, NY 10014.
27  This company has its registered office at One Ivybrook Blvd, Suite 170, Iyland, Pennslyvania, 18974.

46.  Auditor Remuneration
The auditor’s remuneration for the audit of the Company is detailed in Note 5.

47.  Section 357 Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities
Guarantees have been given by the Company in respect of the borrowing facilities of certain subsidiary undertakings and clients.

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 357, Companies Act 2014, the Company has guaranteed commitments entered into and liabilities of the 
following subsidiaries for the financial year ended 30 September 2018:, Ashfield Alliance Limited, Ashfield Healthcare (Ireland) Limited, Dublin 
Drug (Investments) Limited, Dublin Drug Company Limited, Dublin Drug Public Limited Company, Marker (U.D.) Ireland Limited, Pharmexx 
Ireland (Sales Solutions) Limited, UDG Healthcare Ireland Limited, United Care Limited, UDG Healthcare (US) Holdings Limited, UDG 
Healthcare Ayrtons (Dublin) Limited, UDG Healthcare Distributors Limited, UDG Healthcare Finance Limited, UDG Healthcare Nordic Limited, 
UDG Healthcare Packaging Group Limited and UDG Healthcare Property Holdings Limited.

48.  Approval of Financial Statements
The Group and Company financial statements were approved by the directors on 3 December 2018.

166

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Financial Calendar

UDG Healthcare plc is an Irish registered company. The Company’s ordinary shares are quoted on the London Stock Exchange.

Ex-dividend date for 2018 final dividend

Record date for 2018 final dividend

AGM

Payment date for 2018 final dividend

Interim Announcement of Results for 2019

Financial year end

Preliminary Announcement of Results for 2019

10 January 2019

11 January 2019

29 January 2019 

4 February 2019

21 May 2019

30 September 2019

26 November 2019

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

167

Additional Information

Key Performance Indicators and Non-IFRS Performance Measures
The Group reports certain financial measurements that are not required under IFRS which represent the GAAP under which the Group reports. 
The Group believes that the presentation of these non-IFRS measurements provides useful supplemental information which, when viewed  
in conjunction with IFRS financial information, provides stakeholders with a more meaningful understanding of the underlying financial and 
operating performance of the Group and its divisions. These measurements are also used internally to evaluate the historical and planned future 
performance of the Group’s operations and to measure executive management’s performance-based remuneration. 

None of the non-IFRS measurements should be considered as an alternative to financial measurements derived in accordance with IFRS. The 
non-IFRS measurements can have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for an analysis of 
results as reported under IFRS.

The principal non-IFRS measurements used by the Group, together with reconciliations where the non-IFRS measurements are not readily 
identifiable from the financial statements, are as follows:

Net Revenue
Definition
This comprises of gross revenue as reported in the Group Income Statement, adjusted for revenue associated with pass-through costs for which 
the Group does not earn a margin.

Calculation

Revenue 
Pass-through revenue

Net revenue 

Income Statement

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

1,315,186
(185,494)

1,219,755
(191,269)

1,129,692

1,028,486

Adjusted Operating Profit
Definition
This comprises of operating profit as reported in the Group Income Statement before amortisation of acquired intangible assets, transaction 
costs and exceptional items (if any).

Calculation

Operating profit 
Transaction costs 
Amortisation of acquired intangible assets 
Exceptional items

Adjusted operating profit 

Income Statement
Income Statement
Note 5 
Note 9

2018 
$’000

5,501
2,374
31,001
108,630

147,506

2017 
$’000

103,186
4,028
22,066
–

129,280

Adjusted Profit Before Tax 
Definition
This comprises profit before tax as reported in the Group Income Statement before amortisation of acquired intangible assets, transaction costs 
and exceptional items (if any).

Calculation

Profit before tax 
Transaction costs
Amortisation of acquired intangible assets 
Exceptional items

Adjusted profit before tax 

Income Statement
Income Statement
Note 5
Note 9

2018 
$’000

8,386
2,374
31,001
97,054

2017 
$’000

92,834
4,028
22,066
–

138,815

118,928

168

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Adjusted Operating Margin 
Definition
Measures the adjusted operating profit as a percentage of revenue.

Calculation

Adjusted operating profit 
Revenue 

Adjusted operating margin 

Per above
Income Statement

Adjusted Net Operating Margin 
Definition
Measures the adjusted operating profit as a percentage of net revenue.

Calculation

Adjusted operating profit 
Net revenue 

Adjusted net operating margin

Per above
Per above

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

147,506
1,315,186

129,280
1,219,755

11.2%

10.6%

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

147,506
1,129,692

129,280
1,028,486

13.1%

12.6%

Adjusted and Annualised EBITDA
Definition
Adjusted EBITDA is included as a new performance measure in 2018 as it is used internally for performance management and is also a useful 
supplemental measure for external shareholders. Adjusted EBITDA is adjusted operating profit (operating profit before amortisation of acquired 
intangible assets, transaction costs and exceptional items) before depreciation, share-based payment expense, amortisation of computer 
software, the share of joint venture profits and profit/(loss) on disposal of property, plant and equipment. 

The annualised EBITDA used for debt covenant compliance purposes, amends adjusted EBITDA to include the annualisation of the EBITDA for 
acquisitions and exclude share-based payment expense, transaction costs and the EBITDA of completed disposals. 

Calculation

Operating profit 
Exceptional items
Transaction costs 
Amortisation of acquired intangible assets 

Income Statement
Note 9
Income Statement
Note 14

Adjusted operating profit 
Share-based payment expense
Depreciation 
Amortisation of computer software 
Joint venture profit share 
(Profit)/Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment Cash Flow Statement

Cash Flow Statement
Cash Flow Statement
Note 14
Income Statement

Adjusted EBITDA
Share-based payment expense
Transaction costs 
EBITDA of completed disposals 
Annualised EBITDA of acquisitions1 

Annualised EBITDA

Cash Flow Statement
Income Statement

2018 
$’000

5,501
108,630
2,374
31,001

147,506
5,069
24,477
6,036
(958)
(340)

181,790
(5,069)
(2,374)
(2,845)
6,079

177,581

2017 
$’000

103,186
–
4,028
22,066

129,280
3,613
21,221
3,384
(667)
55

156,886
(3,613)
(4,028)
–
14,827

164,072

1 

Includes EBITDA for acquisitions which were not part of the Group for the full financial year.

Financial Ratios
Definition
The net debt to EBITDA and EBITDA interest cover ratios disclosed are calculated using annualised EBITDA and adjusted net finance expense 
(net finance expense excluding interest on pension scheme obligations and the unwinding of discount on provisions, see Note 6). Net debt 
represents the net total of current and non-current borrowings, current and non-current derivative financial instruments and cash and cash 
equivalents as presented in the Group Balance Sheet and as calculated in Note 31. 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

169

Additional Information (continued)

Return on Capital Employed (ROCE)
Definition
ROCE is the continuing adjusted operating profit expressed as a percentage of the Group’s net assets employed. Net assets employed is the 
average of the opening and closing net assets in the year excluding net debt adjusted for cumulative historical amortisation of acquired intangible 
assets and restructuring charges.

Calculation

Net assets 
Net debt

Assets before net debt
Historical intangible amortisation
Historical restructuring costs

Total capital employed

Average total capital employed 
Adjusted operating profit 

Return on capital employed 

Balance Sheet
Note 31

Per above

2018 
$’000

885,343
60,787

946,130
189,206
38,365

2017 
$’000

880,656
53,266

933,922
176,997
47,494

1,173,701

1,158,413

1,166,057
147,506

1,006,869
129,280

12.7%

12.8%

Adjusted Effective Tax Rate
Definition
The Group effective tax rate expresses the income tax expense adjusted for the impact of exceptional items, transaction costs and the 
amortisation of acquired intangible assets as a percentage of adjusted profit before tax. 

Calculation

Tax charge 
Tax relief with respect to transaction costs 
Deferred tax credit with respect to intangible amortisation 
Tax relief with respect to exceptional items 
Deferred tax credit associated with the US Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

Income Statement

Income tax expense before exceptional, transaction costs and deferred tax 
attaching to amortisation of intangible assets 
Adjusted profit before tax 

Per above

Adjusted effective tax rate

2018 
$’000

4,529
180
7,715
1,548
9,715

23,687
138,815

17.1%

2017 
$’000

20,976
370
5,070
–
–

26,416
118,928

22.2%

170

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Constant Currency
Definition
The translation of foreign denominated earnings can be impacted by movements in foreign exchange rates versus US dollars, the Group’s 
presentation currency. In order to present a better reflection of underlying performance in the period, the Group retranslates foreign 
denominated prior year earnings at current year exchange rates. 

Revenue – constant currency

Revenue
Currency impact

Revenue – constant currency

Revenue – constant currency increase on 2017
Revenue – constant currency increase on 2017 %

Net revenue – constant currency

Net revenue
Currency impact

Net revenue – constant currency

Net revenue – constant currency increase on 2017
Net revenue – constant currency increase on 2017 %

Adjusted operating profit – constant currency

Adjusted operating profit
Currency impact

Adjusted operating profit – constant currency

Adjusted operating profit – constant currency increase on 2017
Adjusted operating profit – constant currency increase on 2017 %

Adjusted profit before tax – constant currency

Adjusted profit before tax
Currency impact

Adjusted profit before tax – constant currency

Adjusted profit before tax – constant currency increase on 2017
Adjusted profit before tax – constant currency increase on 2017 %

Adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) – constant currency

Adjusted profit attributable to owners of the parent
Currency impact

Adjusted profit attributable to owners of the parent – constant currency

Weighted average number of shares used in diluted EPS calculation
Adjusted diluted EPS – constant currency (cent)
Adjusted diluted EPS – constant currency increase on 2017 (cent)
Adjusted diluted EPS – constant currency increase on 2017 %

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

1,315,186
–

1,219,755
37,176

1,315,186

1,256,931

58,255
5%

$’000

$’000

1,129,692
–

1,028,486
32,340

1,129,692

1,060,826

68,866
6%

$’000

$’000

129,280
2,812

132,092

147,506
–

147,506

15,414
12%

$’000

$’000

118,928
2,019

120,947

$’000

92,512
1,737

94,249

249,239,387
37.81

138,815
–

138,815

17,868
15%

$’000

115,067
–

115,067

250,464,788
45.94
8.13
22%

The dividend per share constant currency increase on 2017 percentage disclosed is the same as actual percentage increase in dividend per share 
as this is based on the disclosed US dollars dividend per share. 

Measurements removed from the additional information section that are shown elsewhere in the preliminary announcement are as follows:
•  Adjusted diluted earnings per share – this measurement is shown in Note 11. 

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

171

 
 
Glossary

AGM

Annual General Meeting

HR

Human Resources

CAGR

Compound Annual Growth Rate

IAASA

Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority 

CDP

CEO

CFO

CGU

Carbon Disclosure Project

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Financial Officer

Cash Generating Unit

CMIC

Current Medical Information Centre

CO2
CODM

Carbon Dioxide

Chief Operating Decision Maker

CRM

Customer Relationship Management

The Code UK Corporate Governance Code 2016 issued by the UK 

Financial Reporting Council

Corporate Social Responsibility

Drug Enforcement Administration

Earnings Before Interest and Tax

CSR

DEA

EBIT

EBITDA

Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and 
Amortisation 

EBR

EHS

Electronic Batch Record

Environmental Health and Safety

EMEA

Europe, the Middle East and Africa

EPS

ERP

ESG

ESOP

ESOS

EU

EY

Earnings per Share

Enterprise Resource Planning

Economic, Social and Governance

Executive Share Option Plan

Executive Share Option Scheme

European Union

Ernst & Young Chartered Accountants and Statutory Audit 
Firm

FDA

Food and Drug Administration

FTSE 100 
Index

Capitalisation – weighted index consisting of the 100 
largest companies listed on the London Stock Exchange 
with the highest market capitalisation

FTSE 250 
Index

Capitalisation – weighted index consisting of the 101st to 
the 350th largest companies on the London Stock 
Exchange

FY2017

Financial Year 2017

FY2018

Financial Year 2018

FY2019

Financial Year 2019

FRC

GAAP

GDPR

HCP

Financial Reporting Council

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles

General Data Protection Regulation

Healthcare Professionals

HEOR

Health Economics and Outcomes Research

HIPAA

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

172

UDG Healthcare plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2018

IAS

IASB

IFRIC

International Accounting Standard 

International Accounting Standards Board

International Financial Reporting Interpretations 
Committee 

IFRS

International Financial Reporting Standards 

Inc.

IRT

IT

ISAs

KPI

LTA

LTIP

MAH

M&A

MES

Incorporated

Interactive Response Technology

Information Technology

International Standards on Auditing

Key Performance Indicator

Lost Time Accidents

Long Term Incentive Plan

Marketing Authorisation Holder

Mergers and Acquisitions

Manufacturing Execution System

MHRA

Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency

MSL

NETS

Medical Science Liaison

Network of Employers for Traffic Safety

NHTSA

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

N/A

NI

PA

PAYE

PBIT

PBT

PLC

PSP

PwC

R&D

RIF

Not Applicable

Northern Ireland

Pennsylvania 

Pay As You Earn

Profit Before Interest and Tax

Profit Before Tax

Public Limited Company

Patient Support Programme

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Research and Development

Risk, Investment and Financing Committee 

ROCE

Return on Capital Employed

ROI

SET

SID

TSR

UK

UN

US

VAT

Return on Investment

Senior Executive Team

Senior Independent non-executive Director

Total Shareholder Return

United Kingdom

United Nations

United States

Value Added Tax

Financial StatementsDirectors’ Report Strategic Report Principal Bankers
Ulster Bank
Ulster Bank Ireland DAC, 
George’s Quay,  
Dublin 2, Ireland

Solicitors
A&L Goodbody
International Financial Services Centre,  
North Wall Quay,  
Dublin 1, Ireland

Pinsent Masons LLP
3 Hardman Street,  
Manchester, M3 3AU, UK

Auditor
Ernst & Young
Harcourt Centre,  
Harcourt Street,  
Dublin 2, Ireland

Website
Further information on UDG Healthcare  
is available on the Group’s website:  
www.udghealthcare.com

Contacts for Shareholders 

Company Secretary  
and Registered Office
Damien Moynagh
UDG Healthcare plc,  
20 Riverwalk,  
Citywest Business Campus, Citywest,  
Dublin 24, Ireland

Tel: +353 1 468 9000
Website: www.udghealthcare.com

Registered Number
12244

Registrar
Enquiries concerning shareholdings  
should be addressed to:

Computershare Investor  
Services (Ireland) Limited
Heron House, Corrig Road,  
Sandyford Industrial Estate,  
Dublin 18, Ireland

Tel: +353 1 447 5100
Fax: +353 1 447 5571
Email: webqueries@computershare.co.uk

Stockbrokers
Jefferies Hoare Govett, a division  
of Jefferies International Limited
Vintners Place, 68 Upper Thames Street, 
London, EC4V 3BJ, UK 

Davy
Davy House, 49 Dawson Street,  
Dublin 2, Ireland

Goodbody Stockbrokers
Ballsbridge Park, Ballsbridge,  
Dublin 4, Ireland

UDG Healthcare plc

UDG Healthcare plc
20 Riverwalk
Citywest Business Campus
Citywest
Dublin 24
Ireland
D24 NR23

T: +353 1 468 9000 
www.udghealthcare.com

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