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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead clinical strategy and mentor a dynamic multi-disciplinary team in ophthalmology.
- Company: Join a leading NHS and private ophthalmology provider in a modern Bristol site.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, performance bonuses, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape national clinical strategy and make a real impact in eye care services.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified optometrist with 10+ years of experience and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with perks like private healthcare and discounts.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 90000 £ per year.
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 Services 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 Services in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the ophthalmology field. Attend industry events, join relevant forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or at networking events, share your insights on clinical governance and advanced diagnostic technologies. This will help you stand out as a knowledgeable candidate who’s ready to lead.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your leadership and stakeholder management skills. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase how you’ve successfully managed teams and improved patient care. We want to see that you can drive change!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our organisation. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Of Clinical Services in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your leadership roles and any relevant clinical governance experience to show us you're the right fit for the Head of Clinical Services position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about ophthalmology and how your background aligns with our goals. Don’t forget to mention specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead and innovate.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We’re looking for someone who can manage a multi-disciplinary team effectively. In your application, share examples of how you've mentored others or led successful projects. This will help us see your potential to drive professional development within our team.
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details and can consider you for this exciting opportunity!
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 a multi-disciplinary team and mentored others. Highlight your communication skills and how you've built relationships with stakeholders to optimise patient care.
✨Understand Regulatory Compliance
Familiarise yourself with CQC standards, NHS guidelines, and ICB criteria. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured audit readiness and compliance in your previous roles.
✨Be a Strategic Thinker
Think about how you can contribute to shaping the clinical strategy for the organisation. Bring ideas on quality improvement initiatives and how you can drive professional development within the team.
