Dispensing Optician Manager - Lead an Independent Practice

Zest Optical Recruitment; Cheltenham; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

The Cheltenham-based independent optical practice is seeking a Dispensing Optician Manager to lead the team and oversee dispensing services while ensuring excellent patient care. You will partner with the Managing Director to shape practice operations and service delivery.

This hands-on leadership role requires a qualified Dispensing Optician with experience in practice management, strong dispensing skills, and a commercial mindset to drive performance using KPIs.

Qualifications

• Qualified Dispensing Optician registered with the GOC.
• Previous experience as Optical Practice Manager or Deputy Manager.
• Confident dispensing skills.
• Strong understanding of optical practice operations.
• Commercially aware with KPI experience.
• Able to balance management responsibilities and patient-facing work.

Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day running of a successful independent optical practice.
• Lead, motivate and develop the team, creating a positive working environment.
• Maintain high standards of patient care throughout the practice.
• Monitor sales, budgets and practice performance, identifying opportunities for growth.
• Support the development of optical, contact lens and audiology services.
• Carry out regular team reviews and identify training needs.
• Remain involved in dispensing, including single vision, bifocal and varifocal lenses.
• Use digital dispensing technology to support accurate measurements.
• Assist with frame buying, merchandising and practice presentation.
• Resolve patient queries and build lasting relationships.
• Ensure professional standards, compliance and patient safety are maintained.

Skills

Team leadership

Dispensing skills

Coaching

KPI tracking

Budget awareness

Education

GOC registered Dispensing Optician

Tools

Digital dispensing technology

Frame buying

Merchandising

Practice management software

Job description

The Cheltenham-based independent optical practice is seeking a Dispensing Optician Manager to lead the team and oversee dispensing services while ensuring excellent patient care. You will partner with the Managing Director to shape practice operations and service delivery.

This hands-on leadership role requires a qualified Dispensing Optician with experience in practice management, strong dispensing skills, and a commercial mindset to drive performance using KPIs.