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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead clinical operations and shape innovative eye care strategies across multiple locations.
- Company: Join a leading NHS and private ophthalmology provider in a modern Bristol site.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, performance bonuses, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patient care and mentor the next generation of ophthalmic professionals.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified optometrist with 10+ years of experience in senior clinical roles.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career growth and a supportive team environment.
We are working with a leading NHS and private ophthalmology provider to recruit an experienced Head of Clinical Services to join their friendly, forward-thinking team at a modern site in Bristol (Aztec West). This is a unique opportunity to shape and deliver clinical strategy, drive professional development, and ensure regulatory compliance across multiple locations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and implementation of clinical protocols, standards, and training programmes, including Ophthalmic Technician, pre-reg, and IP placements.
- Oversee professional registration, CPD compliance, and audit readiness.
- Attend Clinical Governance Committees and represent the organisation at industry forums, conferences, and practice locations.
- Drive adoption of advanced diagnostic technologies (OCT, biometry, fundus imaging, glaucoma management).
- Mentor ophthalmic technicians and support talent development pathways.
- Collaborate with external agencies to advise on enhanced eye care services.
- Monitor clinical KPIs, patient outcomes, and lead quality improvement initiatives.
- Oversee all planned outpatient clinical activity across all sites.
- Manage and develop a large, multi-disciplinary clinical team.
- Build relationships with stakeholders (ICBs, NHS Trusts, Health Boards, Primary Care) to optimise patient care.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Fully qualified optometrist registered with the GOC.
- Minimum 10 years post-qualification experience, including 5+ years in senior clinical roles.
- Proven track record in clinical governance, audit, and training delivery.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Confident with Office 365 and tech systems (training provided).
- Ability to manage competing priorities calmly and clearly.
- Understanding of CQC standards, NHS standards, and ICB criteria.
Desirable:
- Experience in multi-site optical practices, NHS/ISP ophthalmology services, or ICB commissioning.
- Higher qualifications (MOptom, Professional Certificate in Glaucoma, IP qualification).
- Published research or contributions to optometric journals.
- Familiarity with patient electronic medical management systems (e.g., Open Eyes).
- Strategic thinker with commercial awareness.
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary: £75,000 - £90,000 per annum
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays (increasing with service)
- Performance bonus
- Pension scheme
- Enhanced family leave and sick pay
- Employee Assistance Programme 24/7 confidential support
- Perks & discounts (private healthcare/dental care, retail savings)
- GOC fees paid + generous CPD allowance
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Opportunity to shape national clinical strategy in a growing, innovative group
- Hours: 40 hours per week, 100% office based.
Head of Clinical Operations in Bristol employer: Alexander Mae (HR) Ltd
Contact Detail:
Alexander Mae (HR) Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Clinical Operations in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, conferences, and forums where you can meet key players in ophthalmology. Building relationships with stakeholders can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a personal brand on platforms like LinkedIn by sharing insights on clinical governance and advancements in eye care. This not only highlights your knowledge but also attracts attention from potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! When you find a role that excites you, reach out directly to the hiring manager or team members. A friendly message expressing your enthusiasm can make you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Utilise our website for applications! We’ve got a streamlined process that makes it easy for you to apply for roles like Head of Clinical Operations. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our innovative team!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Clinical Operations in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in clinical governance and leadership. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of Head of Clinical Operations, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive quality improvement and manage multi-disciplinary teams. We love numbers, so if you can quantify your successes, even better!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Alexander Mae (HR) Ltd
✨Know Your Clinical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest clinical protocols and standards in ophthalmology. Be ready to discuss your experience with advanced diagnostic technologies and how you've implemented training programmes in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led multi-disciplinary teams and managed competing priorities. Highlight your communication skills and how you've built relationships with stakeholders in previous roles.
✨Understand Regulatory Compliance
Familiarise yourself with CQC standards and NHS regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in your previous positions and how you would approach this in the new role.
✨Be a Strategic Thinker
Think about how you can contribute to shaping the clinical strategy for the organisation. Prepare to share your insights on enhancing eye care services and any innovative ideas you have for quality improvement initiatives.
