Head of Clinical Services J219

Position: Head of Clinical Services J219)
Head of Clinical Services - Bristol

£75-90k p.a

Our client, a top provider of NHS and Private ophthalmology services, has an exciting opportunity for a Head of Clinical Services to join their team!

The role:

As Head of Clinical Services, you will be a figurehead of the organisation, reporting directly to the clinical directors. You will shape and deliver the clinical vision, drive professional development, and ensure regulatory compliance across all our practices.

* Lead the development and implementation of clinical protocols, standards and training programmes including Ophthalmic Technician, pre-reg and IP placements.

* Oversee professional registration, CPD compliance and ICB audit readiness.

* Attend the Clinical Governance Committee and represent the group at industry forums (including CPD events, conferences and in stores/practices).

* Drive adoption of advanced diagnostic technologies (OCT, biometry, fundus imaging, glaucoma management).

* Mentor ophthalmic technicians and support talent development pathways.

* Collaborate with external agencies to advise on enhanced eye care services (e.g. glaucoma referral refinement, cataract, YAG/SLT pathways).

* Monitor clinical KPIs and patient outcomes, lead quality improvement initiatives.

* Oversee all planned outpatient clinical activity across all locations.

* Manage and develop a large multi-disciplinary clinical team.

* Build relations with various different stakeholders (such as ICBs/NHS trusts/Health Boards/Primary Care) to optimise patient care.

Key skills/experience:

* Fully qualified optometrist registered with the General Optical Council (GOC).

* Minimum 10 years post-qualification experience, including 5+ years in senior clinical

* Proven track record in clinical governance, audit, and training delivery.

* Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

* Confident use of Office 365 and tech systems (training provided)

* Great communication skills, both written and verbal

* An understanding of CQC standards, NHS Standards and ICB criteria

Desirable

* Experience in multi-site optical stores/practices, NHS / ISP ophthalmology services or ICB commissioning.

* Higher qualifications (e.g., MOptom, Professional Certificate in Glaucoma, IP qualification) strongly preferred.

* Published research or contributions to optometric journals.

* Familiarity with patient electronic medical management systems (e.g. Open Eyes).

* Strategic thinker with a commercial awareness.

Benefits:

* 25 days holiday + bank holidays (increasing with service)

* Performance bonus

* Company pension scheme

* Enhanced family leave and sick pay

* Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 confidential support

* Perks & Discounts – from private healthcare/dental care to retail savings

* GOC fees paid + generous CPD allowance.

* Ongoing training and development opportunities