Optical Practice Manager

Inspired Selections Group; Colchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading optical services provider in Colchester is seeking a qualified Optical Manager to oversee the department's operations. This role involves team leadership, ensuring compliance with practices, and delivering exceptional customer care. Candidates should be Dispensing Opticians registered with the GOC, with proven leadership experience in an optical setting. The position offers competitive salary, benefits, and genuine opportunities for career progression.

Benefits

Discretionary annual bonus

Company pension scheme

Generous colleague discount

Free access to wellbeing services

Professional indemnity insurance and GOC fees paid

CET support

Free physiotherapy consultations

Free remote GP service

Cycle-to-work scheme

Discounts on pharmacy services

Life assurance cover

Financial wellbeing advice

Qualifications

• Fully qualified Dispensing Optician registered with the General Optical Council (GOC).
• Proven experience in a leadership role within an optical environment.
• Confident in coaching and developing others.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage day-to-day operations of the optician’s department.
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Optometrists and Optical Assistants.
• Maintain compliance with all professional and clinical standards.

Skills

Leadership in an optical environment

Excellent communication skills

Organisational skills

Commercial awareness

Education

Dispensing Optician registered with the GOC

CPD points requirements met

Job description

Qualified Optical Manager
Location: Colchester
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours per Week: 40
Salary: Competitive salary plus benefits

The Role

We’re committed to delivering outstanding eye care and putting the health and wellbeing of our customers first. Our Optical Managers play a crucial role in leading their teams to deliver high standards of clinical care and customer service.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment, with a passion for both people management and optical excellence. You’ll ensure the department runs smoothly, your team is supported, and every customer receives an exceptional experience.
You’ll also benefit from dedicated support teams across the wider business network, who will help you drive performance, stay compliant, and continuously improve.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of the optician’s department.
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Optometrists and Optical Assistants.
• Maintain compliance with all professional, clinical, and company standards.
• Manage department budgets, sales forecasting, and performance targets.
• Handle customer queries, ensuring the highest level of patient care and satisfaction.
• Coordinate clinic management and ensure the shop floor is fully equipped for customers’ needs.
• Promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive team culture.

Requirements

• Fully qualified Dispensing Optician registered with the General Optical Council (GOC).
• On track to meet statutory CPD points requirements.
• Proven experience in a leadership role within an optical environment.
• Confident in coaching and developing others.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Strong commercial awareness with the ability to achieve departmental targets.
• A passion for delivering outstanding patient and customer care.

What We Offer

We provide an excellent benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, professional growth, and work-life balance, including:

• Discretionary annual bonus
• Company pension scheme
• Generous colleague discount
• Free access to wellbeing services
• Professional indemnity insurance and GOC fees paid
• Continuing Education and Training (CET) support

Additional Benefits

• Free physiotherapy consultations (8 per year)
• Free remote GP service for you and your family
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Discounts on pharmacy services, travel insurance, and mobile plans
• Life assurance cover
• Financial wellbeing and mortgage advice services
• Confidential support helpline available 24/7

Why Join Us?

We’re a values-led organisation that believes in openness, collaboration, and action. Our mission is to make a positive difference – for our customers, our colleagues, and our communities – by providing accessible, high-quality eye care in a welcoming environment. With a strong national presence and a focus on innovation, we offer genuine opportunities for career progression and personal development.