At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a dynamic reception team, ensuring high-quality patient services.
- Company: Join The Barkantine Practice, a progressive NHS GP practice near Canary Wharf.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a culture focused on innovation and service improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in General Practice with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for an ambitious, operationally strong and people-focused leader to join The Barkantine Practice as our Reception Manager. This is a key leadership position within our Senior Leadership Team (SLT), responsible for shaping and driving the delivery of high-quality patient-facing services in a fast-paced, forward-thinking NHS practice serving 27,700 patients. If you are an experienced General Practice professional with strong supervisory skills, a passion for service improvement, and the confidence to lead from the front, this is an opportunity to make real impact. The post is 37.5 hours over 5 days, Monday to Friday.
Main duties of the job:
- Lead and develop our Patient Adviser team and take full operational responsibility for the smooth running of reception and patient-facing services.
- Lead, motivate and performance-manage the reception team.
- Manage staffing rotas and ensure safe, efficient service delivery.
- Manage appointment systems and clinical session structure.
- Ensure workflow, correspondence and daily operational tasks are effectively coordinated.
- Act as the central communication link between patients, clinicians and administrative teams.
- Drive high standards of professionalism and patient experience.
- Monitor attendance, sickness and performance.
- Support recruitment, induction and staff development.
- Ensure compliance with practice protocols and policies.
- Identify and implement service improvements.
- Work closely with the Practice Manager and Deputy Practice Manager to support operational strategy.
This is a visible leadership role requiring resilience, initiative and a hands-on approach. You will be expected to set standards, role-model behaviours and contribute actively to continuous improvement.
About us:
The Barkantine Practice is a large, progressive and rapidly developing NHS GP practice based near Canary Wharf in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. We care for approximately 27,700 patients, deliver PCN Enhanced Access services for eight local GP practices, host a Same Day Access Hub supporting NHS 111, and are actively implementing the Modern General Practice Access model. We have a strong culture of quality improvement and service transformation. We are committed to innovation, operational excellence, and supporting our staff to grow into future leaders within primary care.
Person Specification:
- Minimum GCSE (AC) in English and Maths (or equivalent).
- Minimum 3 years experience within General Practice.
- Experience supervising or managing staff.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and under pressure.
- Commitment to equality, diversity and patient-centred care.
- Understanding of health inequalities within inner-city populations.
- Ability to triage/signpost appropriately.
- Evidence of ongoing professional development.
- Experience supporting service redesign or operational improvements.
- Experience contributing to recruitment and training.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check: This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Reception Manager employer: The Barkantine Practice
The Barkantine Practice is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Tower Hamlets, where you can make a tangible impact on patient care for over 27,700 individuals. With a strong commitment to innovation and quality improvement, we provide our staff with ample opportunities for professional growth and development, fostering a culture that values leadership and collaboration. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking NHS practice that prioritises employee well-being and service excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reception Manager
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like The Barkantine Practice.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at The Barkantine Practice.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
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We think you need these skills to ace Reception Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at The Barkantine Practice.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at The Barkantine Practice.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to The Barkantine Practice. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at The Barkantine Practice. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Barkantine Practice
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research The Barkantine Practice’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
