Head of Clinical Services

At Newmedica in Bristol, we believe better sight changes lives. We’re one of England’s top providers of NHS and Private ophthalmology services, delivering outpatient care, diagnostic testing, and advanced eye surgery to thousands of patients every year. With a growing network of specialist clinics across the UK, we’re on a mission to make world‑class eye care more accessible for everyone. We’re proud to be officially certified as a Great Place to Work® for the third consecutive year, based on independent feedback from our colleagues. This recognition reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive, collaborative, and empowering workplace where people can thrive.

As Head of Clinical Services, you will be a figurehead of the organisation, reporting directly to the clinical directors. You will shape and deliver the clinical vision, drive professional development, and ensure regulatory compliance across all our practices. This role is permanent and full‑time (40 hours), based at our Bristol locations – Aztec West, Clifton and Langford.

What You’ll Do

• 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 ICB audit readiness.
• Attend our Clinical Governance Committee and represent the group at industry forums (including CPD events, conferences and in stores/practices).
• 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 (e.g. glaucoma referral refinement, cataract, YAG/SLT pathways).
• Monitor clinical KPIs and patient outcomes, lead quality improvement initiatives.
• Oversee all planned outpatient clinical activity across all locations.
• Manage and develop a large multi‑disciplinary clinical team.
• Build relations with various stakeholders (such as ICBs/NHS trusts/Health Boards/Primary Care) to optimise patient care.

What We’re Looking For

• Fully qualified optometrist registered with the General Optical Council (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 use of Office 365 and tech systems (training provided).
• Great communication skills, both written and verbal.
• A team player with a proactive, solution‑focused approach and mentality.
• Ability to manage competing priorities with calm and clarity.
• An understanding of CQC standards, NHS Standards and ICB criteria.
• Experience in multi‑site optical stores/practices, NHS / ISP ophthalmology services or ICB commissioning.
• Higher qualifications (e.g., MOptom, Professional Certificate in Glaucoma, IP qualification) strongly preferred.
• Published research or contributions to optometric journals.
• Familiarity with patient electronic medical management systems (e.g. Open Eyes).
• Strategic thinker with commercial awareness.

What You’ll Get in Return

• Competitive Salary: £75,000 – £90,000 per annum FTE (based on experience).
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays (increasing with service).
• Performance bonus.
• Company pension scheme.
• Enhanced family leave and sick pay.
• Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 confidential support.
• Perks & Discounts – from private healthcare/dental care to retail savings.
• GOC fees paid + generous CPD allowance.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Opportunity to shape Newmedica national clinical strategy in a growing, innovative group.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a covering letter (maximum 1 page) outlining your leadership philosophy and key clinical achievements to bristol.hr@newmedica.co.uk or via the advert on our careers page https://newmedica.bamboohr.com/careers. We very much look forward to hearing and hopefully, meeting with you soon.

Our employment offers are subject to receipt of satisfactory pre‑employment checks. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK and a Disclosure and Barring Service check will be necessary in the event of a successful application, which we will pay for. If you would like an informal chat about the opportunity or to request a job description, please contact Bristol.hr@newmedica.co.uk.

At Newmedica, we actively promote diversity and equal opportunities, and we are committed to this in both the running of our services and how we recruit our staff. We actively encourage applications from everyone with the essential requirements of the job, regardless of any protected characteristics. Newmedica is fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of all people, irrespective of gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, race, language, religion, ethnic or social origin.

This role closes on 4th January 2026, with interviews scheduled for throughout January. However, we reserve the right to close the vacancy earlier if we receive a high volume of applications. If you are unavailable to interview during the month of January, we still encourage you to apply – we’ll do our best to arrange a suitable alternative date.