Head Of Clinical Services

Alexander Mae HR Ltd; Bristol; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ophthalmology healthcare provider in Bristol is seeking an experienced Head of Clinical Services to shape and deliver clinical strategy across multiple sites. This key role involves managing a large clinical team and ensuring regulatory compliance while driving professional development in a forward-thinking environment. Ideal candidates will have a proven track record in clinical governance and leadership. A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package are on offer for this full-time, office-based position.

Benefits

Competitive salary

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Performance bonus

Pension scheme

Enhanced family leave and sick pay

Employee Assistance Programme

GOC fees paid and 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.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of clinical protocols and training programmes.
• Oversee professional registration and compliance with CQC and NHS standards.
• Manage and develop a large, multi-disciplinary clinical team.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Clinical governance

Stakeholder management

Ability to manage priorities

Education

Fully qualified optometrist registered with the GOC

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

Tools

Office 365

Patient electronic medical management systems (e.g., Open Eyes)

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.

What's 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