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- Tasks: Lead a passionate team and ensure exceptional patient care in a thriving optical practice.
- Company: Join a respected independent opticians with a strong community presence since the 1980s.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company pension, staff discounts, and exciting company events.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence growth and work with premium eyewear in a dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Previous optical management experience is essential; qualified dispensing opticians are welcome to apply.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 35000 £ per year.
Independent Opticians in Gateshead are seeking an Optical Practice Manager to lead the team and oversee the day-to-day running of the practice. This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly regarded independent practice with a reputation for outstanding patient care, specialist eyewear, and a personal approach to service.
The Role:
- 5 days per week including Saturday
- Practice open Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5.30pm
- Closed Sundays
- Salary between £28,000 to £35,000 DOE (Up to £32K if Non Qual)
- Leading a small, experienced practice team
- Mix of management, dispensing, and patient-focused responsibilities
- Opportunity to influence the continued growth and development of the practice
The practice offers a wide selection of boutique and designer eyewear sourced from across Europe, alongside premium lens technology and a strong focus on personalised patient care.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leading, motivating, and developing the practice team
- Managing staff rotas and daily workflow
- Delivering an exceptional patient journey
- Supporting dispensing and handling more complex patient queries
- Monitoring sales performance and identifying growth opportunities
- Managing frame and lens stock
- Supporting local marketing initiatives and promotions
- Ensuring compliance with NHS and industry regulations
Requirements:
- Previous Optical Management experience is essential
- Must have worked within an Opticians environment
- Qualified Dispensing Opticians welcome to apply
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Commercially aware and customer focused
- Organised with a proactive approach
- Interest in premium eyewear and fashion beneficial
What's on Offer:
- Salary £28,000 to £35,000 depending on experience and qualification (Up to £32K if non qual)
- Company pension
- Staff discount
- Company events
- Supportive independent environment
- Opportunity to play a key role within a respected practice
To apply for this Optical Practice Manager job in Gateshead, please send your CV to Rebecca Wood at Zest Optical or call for a confidential discussion.
Optical Practice Manager - Independent - Gateshead employer: Zest Optical
Contact Detail:
Zest Optical Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Optical Practice Manager - Independent - Gateshead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the optical industry and let them know you're on the hunt for an Optical Practice Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get social! Use platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your experience and connect with professionals in the field. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions to increase your visibility and show off your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the practice thoroughly. Understand their values, patient care approach, and the types of eyewear they offer. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Optical Practice Manager - Independent - Gateshead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your previous Optical Management experience. Highlight any specific achievements or responsibilities that align with the role of Optical Practice Manager. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about working in an independent practice and how your leadership skills can enhance our patient care. Keep it personal and engaging, just like we do with our patients.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: As a potential leader, it's important to demonstrate your ability to motivate and develop a team. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past and how you plan to support our staff at the practice. We love a collaborative approach!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zest Optical
✨Know Your Optical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your optical knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in eyewear, lens technology, and patient care practices. This will not only show your passion for the industry but also demonstrate that you're ready to lead a team in providing exceptional service.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Optical Practice Manager, you'll need to lead and motivate your team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, highlighting your communication and organisational skills. Think about specific situations where you’ve resolved conflicts or improved team performance.
✨Understand the Business Side
Get a grip on the commercial aspects of running an opticians practice. Be ready to discuss how you can drive sales performance and identify growth opportunities. Research the practice's current offerings and think about how you could enhance their marketing initiatives or stock management.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions. Ask about the practice's goals, team dynamics, and how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.