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- Tasks: Lead and manage healthcare service contracts, focusing on ophthalmic services and NHS provision.
- Company: Optical Express, a trusted provider of eye care services for over 35 years.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 29 days leave, pension scheme, private healthcare, and discounts on treatments.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare by leading contract management and improving patient services.
- Qualifications: Experience in NHS contracting, strong negotiation skills, and relevant qualifications preferred.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Reporting to: Clinical Services Director & Director of Care & Quality
Location: Glasgow HO – Open to other locations
Salary: Commensurate with position and experience
Optical Express is a provider of ophthalmology services, including laser eye surgery, cataract surgery, and lens replacement surgery in the United Kingdom and Europe. For over 35 years, millions of patients have trusted Optical Express with their eye care. We are focused on delivering exceptional patient care, outstanding clinical outcomes, and continued investment in our people and technology.
Our group healthcare brands, headed by Optical Express, also includes ACES, sk:n clinics and The Harley Medical Group, which are now promoting and providing services to NHS patients. As a result, we are looking to recruit a Head of Contracts.
About the Role
We are seeking a strategic and experienced Head of Contracts to lead the development, negotiation, and management of healthcare service contracts, with a particular focus on ophthalmic services and broader NHS provision. This pivotal role will oversee relationships with NHS providers and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), ensuring high-quality, cost-effective service delivery across the region.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the full lifecycle of healthcare contracts, including commissioning, negotiation, performance monitoring, and renewal.
- Manage a portfolio of contracts across our healthcare brands offerings.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with NHS providers, ICBs, and other stakeholders.
- Ensure compliance with NHS contracting regulations and financial governance frameworks.
- Provide strategic input into service redesign, procurement planning, and contract variation processes.
- Present contract performance reports and recommendations to senior leadership and governance boards.
- Lead and develop a high-performing contracts team, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
- Collaborate with Contracts and Finance teams on data and income reporting.
- Oversee NHS finance and data reporting.
- Manage all coding activity and NHS data submissions.
About You
You’ll be a confident leader with a deep understanding of NHS contracting and commissioning processes. You’ll bring:
- Proven experience in managing complex healthcare contracts within the NHS or similar environment.
- Strong knowledge of ophthalmic services and primary care commissioning.
- Excellent negotiation, stakeholder engagement, and analytical skills.
- Ability to interpret and apply NHS financial and performance frameworks (e.g., PbR, HRG, KPIs).
- A strategic mindset with the ability to influence service delivery, transformation, and commercial awareness.
- Relevant qualifications (e.g., Master’s degree, APMP, CIPFA) are highly desirable.
Benefits
- A competitive salary commensurate with your experience.
- 29 days annual leave per year, increasing with length of service.
- Pension Scheme.
- Private Healthcare.
- Complimentary or discounted Laser Eye Surgery, Intraocular Lens surgery or Lipiflow treatment.
- Generous Optical Express Friends and Family Discount scheme.
- Discounts on other group companies products & procedures.
Head of Contracts employer: Optical Express
Contact Detail:
Optical Express Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Contracts
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the healthcare sector, especially those involved with NHS contracts. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Optical Express and its services. Understand their approach to patient care and how they manage contracts. This will help you showcase your knowledge and passion during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Head of Contracts position. We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Contracts
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Contracts role. Highlight your experience with NHS contracts and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your achievements in contract management and stakeholder engagement that relate to our needs.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Head of Contracts, leadership is key. In your application, emphasise your experience in leading teams and driving performance. We love to see candidates who can inspire and foster collaboration!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Optical Express!
How to prepare for a job interview at Optical Express
✨Know Your NHS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of NHS contracting and commissioning processes. Familiarise yourself with the latest regulations and frameworks, as this will show your potential employer that you're not just experienced but also up-to-date with current practices.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Contracts, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in high-pressure situations. Think about times when you fostered collaboration and excellence within your team.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Expect to discuss negotiation strategies during your interview. Be ready to share specific examples of complex contracts you've managed, focusing on your approach to negotiations and how you achieved successful outcomes. This will highlight your analytical and strategic mindset.
✨Build Relationships Before You Even Start
Think about how you can build rapport with stakeholders, especially NHS providers and ICBs. During the interview, mention any existing relationships you have or how you plan to establish strong connections. This shows that you understand the importance of stakeholder engagement in this role.
