Head of Clinical Operations

Alexander Mae (HR) Ltd; Greater London; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ophthalmology provider in Greater London is seeking an experienced Head of Clinical Services to drive clinical strategy and ensure compliance across multiple sites. The ideal candidate will be a fully qualified optometrist with extensive experience in clinical governance and team leadership. This role offers a competitive salary of £75,000 to £90,000 per annum, 25 days holiday, a performance bonus, and various benefits, providing a unique opportunity to shape clinical practices within a forward-thinking organization.

Benefits

25 days holiday + bank holidays (increasing with service)

Performance bonus

Pension scheme

Enhanced family leave and sick pay

Employee Assistance Programme

GOC fees paid + generous CPD allowance

Ongoing training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years post-qualification experience, including 5+ years in senior clinical roles.
• Proven track record in clinical governance, audit, and training delivery.
• Experience with multi-site optical practices or NHS ophthalmology services.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of clinical protocols and standards.
• Oversee professional registration, CPD compliance, and audit readiness.
• Manage and develop a large, multi-disciplinary clinical team.

Skills

Leadership skills

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Understanding of CQC standards

Technical proficiency with systems

Education

Fully qualified optometrist registered with the GOC

Higher qualifications (MOptom, IP qualification)

Job description

Head of Clinical Services

Ophthalmology

We are working with a leading

NHS and private ophthalmology provider

to recruit an experienced

Head of Clinical Services

to join their friendly, forward-thinking team at a modern site in

Bristol (Aztec West) .

This is a unique opportunity to shape and deliver clinical strategy, drive professional development, and ensure regulatory compliance across multiple locations.

Key Responsibilities

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 audit readiness.

Attend Clinical Governance Committees and represent the organisation at industry forums, conferences, and practice locations.

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.

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

Oversee all planned outpatient clinical activity across all sites.

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

Build relationships with stakeholders (ICBs, NHS Trusts, Health Boards, Primary Care) to optimise patient care.

Person Specification

Essential

Fully qualified optometrist registered with the GOC.

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

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

Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Confident with Office 365 and tech systems (training provided).

Ability to manage competing priorities calmly and clearly.

Understanding of CQC standards, NHS standards, and ICB criteria.

Desirable

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

Higher qualifications (MOptom, Professional Certificate in Glaucoma, IP qualification).

Published research or contributions to optometric journals.

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

Strategic thinker with commercial awareness.

Whats on Offer

Competitive salary : £75,000

£90,000 per annum

25 days holiday + bank holidays (increasing with service)

Performance bonus

Pension scheme

Enhanced family leave and sick pay

Employee Assistance Programme

24 / 7 confidential support

Perks & discounts (private healthcare / dental care, retail savings)

GOC fees paid + generous CPD allowance

Ongoing training and development opportunities

Opportunity to shape national clinical strategy in a growing, innovative group

Hours

40 hours per week, 100% office based.