Deputy Practice Manager

We are seeking an enthusiastic, motivated, and highly organised Deputy Practice Manager to join our busy and forward-thinking NHS GP Practice. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced healthcare administrator or supervisor looking to take the next step in their management career within Primary Care. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the day-to-day operational management of the Practice, ensuring the delivery of safe, effective, and high-quality services to our patients.

Working closely with the Practice Manager and clinical leadership team, you will help oversee administrative functions, staff management, patient experience, and service improvement initiatives. We are looking for someone with excellent communication and organisational skills, strong leadership qualities, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. Previous experience within General Practice or NHS Primary Care is highly desirable, along with knowledge of clinical systems, patient services, and operational processes.

In return, we offer a supportive and collaborative working environment, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to make a meaningful impact within a dedicated healthcare team serving the local community. If you are proactive, adaptable, and passionate about delivering high standards of patient care and operational excellence, we would love to hear from you.

Main duties of the job

The Deputy Practice Manager will support the Practice Manager in the day-to-day operational running of the Practice, helping to ensure the delivery of high-quality, safe, and efficient patient services. The role includes supporting the management and supervision of administrative and reception teams, assisting with rota coordination, patient services, and maintaining effective practice systems and processes.

The successful candidate will work closely with clinicians and staff to support service delivery, patient experience, and continuous improvement across the Practice. Responsibilities will also include assisting with HR processes, staff training and development, handling patient queries and complaints, and ensuring compliance with NHS and Practice policies and procedures.

This is a varied and rewarding role suited to an individual who is organised, proactive, and able to work effectively in a busy Primary Care environment while maintaining excellent communication and leadership skills.

About us

We are a large GP practice in Pimlico, caring for over 15,000 patients, and a founding member of the newly formed Independent PCN - Westminster Living Well. Our clinical team consists of 5 Partners, 1 Salaried GP, 2 Advanced Clinical Practitioners, 3 Nurses, and 2 Healthcare Assistants, supported by a large reception/administrative team. As part of the Westminster Living Well Primary Care Network (PCN), we have additional support from the Home Visiting Team, Dietitians, Health & Wellbeing Coaches, Podiatrists, Care-Coordinators, Clinical Pharmacists, and a Social Prescribing Team.

Job responsibilities

Job Summary

The Deputy Practice Manager will support the Practice Manager in the operational and administrative management of the Practice, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, safe, effective, and efficient services to patients. The post holder will assist in overseeing the smooth day-to-day running of the Practice, support staff management, and contribute to the continuous development and improvement of services in line with NHS regulations and Practice objectives.

The Deputy Practice Manager will work closely with the Practice Manager, Partners, clinicians, and administrative teams to maintain excellent standards of patient care and operational performance.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Support the day-to-day operational management of the Practice.
• Assist in ensuring the Practice operates efficiently and effectively at all times.
• Support the implementation and review of Practice policies, procedures, and systems.
• Monitor and maintain administrative processes to support patient services.
• Assist with premises and facilities management issues where required.

Staff Management and Leadership

• Support the supervision and management of reception and administrative staff.
• Assist with staff rotas, annual leave coordination, and workforce planning.
• Support staff training, induction, and ongoing development.
• Provide guidance and support to staff in the absence of the Practice Manager.
• Promote a positive, supportive, and professional working environment.
• Support the delivery of high standards of patient care and customer service.
• Assist in responding to patient concerns, feedback, and complaints in accordance with Practice procedures.
• Work collaboratively with clinical and non-clinical staff to improve patient experience and access to services.

HR and Governance

• Assist with recruitment, onboarding, and HR administration processes.
• Support compliance with employment policies, NHS regulations, CQC standards, and Practice protocols.
• Maintain confidentiality and ensure compliance with GDPR and information governance requirements.
• Support health and safety processes and risk management activities.

Finance and Performance

• Assist with monitoring Practice performance targets and contractual requirements.
• Support administrative processes relating to QOF, enhanced services, and other NHS initiatives.
• Assist the Practice Manager with reporting, audits, and data monitoring where required.

IT and Systems

• Support the effective use of clinical systems and Practice IT infrastructure.
• Assist in identifying opportunities to improve systems, workflows, and digital processes.
• Ensure accurate record keeping and data quality standards are maintained.

General Responsibilities

• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding patient and Practice information.
• Participate in Practice meetings, training, and development activities.
• Demonstrate flexibility and undertake additional duties appropriate to the role.
• Work in accordance with Practice policies, procedures, and NHS guidelines.

Experience

• Experience working within an NHS GP Practice or Primary Care setting.
• Experience supervising or managing administrative teams.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Ability to prioritise workload and work under pressure.
• Good understanding of NHS Primary Care operations and patient services.
• Proficient IT skills, including clinical systems and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Previous experience in a management or deputy management role.
• Knowledge of QOF, enhanced services, and CQC requirements.
• Experience with HR processes and staff development.
• Understanding of financial and operational performance monitoring.

Personal Attributes

• Professional and approachable manner.
• Strong leadership and problem-solving skills.
• Proactive and adaptable approach to work.
• Commitment to high standards of patient care and service delivery.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

Qualifications

• GCSEs (or equivalent) including English and Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above.
• Evidence of continued professional development.
• Good standard of literacy and numeracy.
• Proficient IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications.

Experience

• Previous experience working within an NHS GP Practice, Primary Care, or healthcare setting.
• Experience supervising, managing, or supporting administrative/reception teams.
• Experience dealing with patients, healthcare professionals, and external agencies in a professional manner.
• Experience managing competing priorities and working within a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge and understanding of NHS Primary Care services and processes.
• Experience using clinical systems such as EMIS Web, SystmOne, Docman, or similar.
• Experience handling confidential and sensitive information in line with GDPR and information governance requirements.
• Experience supporting operational processes, staff coordination, and service delivery.
• Strong organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills.