Deputy Practice Manager

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Deputy Practice Manager to join our busy GP practice. You will support the Practice Manager in the day-to-day operational running of the surgery, helping to ensure the smooth delivery of high-quality patient services. The role includes overseeing administrative and reception teams, supporting HR processes such as recruitment and rota management, assisting with finance and reporting, and ensuring compliance with NHS and CQC standards. You will also play a key role in improving systems, supporting patient experience initiatives, and stepping in to manage the practice in the absence of the Practice Manager.

We are looking for someone with strong organisational and leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and experience working in a GP or healthcare setting. This is a great opportunity to contribute to a supportive team and make a meaningful impact on patient care and service development.

The Corner Surgery is a friendly, well-established GP practice serving a patient population of approximately 6,000 people in the heart of Brixton. We are a close-knit, community-focused team who take pride in delivering high-quality, compassionate care to a diverse and vibrant local population. Our team is made up of experienced GPs, nurses, healthcare assistants, and a dedicated non-clinical team who work closely together to keep the practice running smoothly. We value collaboration, mutual support, and clear communication, and we maintain a culture where everyone's contribution is recognised and respected. The atmosphere at the practice is warm, professional, and welcoming. Despite being a busy surgery, we place strong emphasis on teamwork and maintaining a supportive working environment. We encourage openness, problem-solving, and continuous improvement, and we work together to find practical solutions that benefit both patients and staff. Our work ethic is centred around providing safe, effective, and patient-focused care while maintaining efficiency and high standards across all areas of practice management. We are committed to learning, development, and adapting to the changing needs of primary care, while keeping patient experience at the heart of everything we do.

Job responsibilities

• Operational Management
  • Support the day-to-day running of the practice to ensure smooth service delivery
  • Assist in managing workflows across reception, administration, and clinical support services
  • Help maintain effective appointment systems and patient access processes
  • Deputise for the Practice Manager when required
  • Contribute to business continuity planning and operational resilience
• Staff Management & HR Support
  • Support recruitment, onboarding, and induction of new staff
  • Assist with staff rotas, attendance monitoring, and annual leave planning
  • Support performance management processes and staff development
  • Promote a positive, supportive, and collaborative team culture
• Finance & Administration
  • Assist with financial processes including invoicing, expenses, and basic budget monitoring
  • Support reporting requirements for the practice and external stakeholders
  • Maintain accurate records and ensure administrative systems are efficient
• Compliance & Governance
  • Ensure compliance with NHS contractual requirements and CQC standards
  • Support GDPR and data protection compliance across the practice
  • Assist with audits, policy updates, and governance processes
• Patient Services
  • Support the management of patient feedback, complaints, and concerns
  • Contribute to improving patient access and experience
  • Help develop and improve patient-facing services and communication
• Systems & Service Improvement
  • Support the use and development of clinical and administrative systems
  • Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and workflows
  • Contribute to service development and quality improvement initiatives
  • Support QOF (Quality and Outcomes Framework) and other performance-related reporting where required
• Stakeholder Engagement
  • Liaise with external partners including Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), NHS suppliers, and community services
  • Support effective communication with internal and external stakeholders

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience working in a GP practice or healthcare setting
• Strong organisational and administrative skills
• Experience supporting or supervising staff
• Good understanding of NHS primary care systems and processes
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a busy environment
• Proficient in IT systems and clinical software used in general practice

Desirable

• Previous experience in a Deputy Practice Manager or similar role
• Knowledge of CQC requirements and NHS contractual frameworks
• Experience in HR, finance, or operational management within primary care

Personal Qualities

• Approachable, supportive, and team-oriented
• Proactive and solution-focused
• Calm under pressure
• Committed to high standards of patient care and service delivery
• Willing to learn and develop professionally

Qualifications

• Good standard of general education (GCSEs or equivalent, including English and Maths)
• Proven experience working in a GP practice or primary care setting
• Evidence of continued professional development (CPD) relevant to healthcare, management, or administration