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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, generous 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 the chance to influence national clinical strategy.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 81000 £ 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.
Whats 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 Ltd
Contact Detail:
Alexander Mae 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! 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 to potential colleagues 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 hiring managers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience in clinical governance and training delivery. Share specific examples of how you've driven quality improvement initiatives in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a role that excites you, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm. It shows initiative and can help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the unexpected! Interviews can throw curveballs, so brush up on your knowledge of CQC standards and NHS criteria. Think about how you can apply your strategic thinking to enhance patient care and be ready to discuss it confidently.
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 Services, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive quality improvement and manage multi-disciplinary teams. Use metrics where possible to illustrate your impact – numbers speak volumes!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role, and make sure to proofread for any typos or errors before hitting send.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Alexander Mae Ltd
✨Know Your Clinical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest clinical protocols and standards in ophthalmology. Familiarise yourself with advanced diagnostic technologies like OCT and biometry, as well as CQC and NHS standards. This will show that you're not just experienced but also up-to-date with current practices.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams and driven professional development in your previous roles. Think about specific instances where you mentored others or implemented training programmes. This is your chance to demonstrate your exceptional leadership and communication skills.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Research the organisation's goals and how they align with the wider healthcare landscape. Be ready to discuss how you can optimise patient care through collaboration with stakeholders like ICBs and NHS Trusts. Showing that you understand the strategic side of the role will set you apart.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about their approach to clinical governance or how they envision the future of eye care services. It shows you're genuinely interested and engaged, which is always a plus!
