Practice Manager - Independent Practice

Vivid Optical; Urmston; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent optical practice in the United Kingdom is seeking a dedicated Practice Manager to oversee daily operations and lead the team. The role offers the opportunity to shape business strategy and maintain a patient-focused culture. Ideal candidates will have previous experience in an optical practice, strong leadership skills, and a passion for customer care. Enjoy competitive benefits in a supportive non-corporate environment where contributions truly matter.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Supportive, friendly team environment

Opportunity for career growth

Qualifications

• Previous experience in an optical practice is preferred, ideally in a supervisory role.
• Ability to motivate a team, manage rotas and deliver consistent service.
• Good commercial awareness and ability to manage stock and supplier relationships.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations ensuring smooth workflow and excellent service.
• Manage and support the team including training and scheduling.
• Ensure high standards of customer service and patient care.

Skills

Strong leadership

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Customer care

Problem-solving

Job description

We are an independent, people‑first practice based in Manchester. We believe in doing optics differently, offering longer appointments, real conversations with patients, and a close‑knit team that values quality over quantity. We're passionate about delivering exceptional patient care and creating a friendly, supportive working environment where every team member is appreciated.

If you're tired of rushed appointments and corporate pressure, and want to work somewhere your role truly matters you might be the person we're looking for.

We are looking for a dedicated Practice Manager (potential Multi Site) to lead our team(s) and oversee the day-to-day running of the practice(s). This is a key role with the opportunity to shape how we work, drive high standards, and help grow the business while maintaining the personal, patient‑focused culture that makes us special.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the practice(s), ensuring smooth workflow, excellent service, and efficient team coordination. Manage and support the team(s) (optical staff, assistants, reception) including training, mentoring, scheduling / rotas, and staff development. Ensure high standards of customer service and patient care at all times, acting as an ambassador for our values. Manage inventory, ordering and stock control (frames, lenses, consumables), liaising with suppliers as needed. Oversee administrative tasks such as record keeping, compliance, practice paperwork, opening / closing procedures, general management duties. Collaborate with the Directors to help shape business strategy, service standards, and practice growth.

Person Specification - Skills & Qualities

• Previous experience in an optical practice (dispensing, retail optics, or similar), ideally with some supervisory / management experience. Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills, able to motivate a team, manage rotas and deliver consistent service. A passion for customer care and delivering an excellent patient experience. Good commercial awareness, ability to manage stock, liaise with suppliers, and contribute to business growth. Reliable, flexible, and a problem‑solver, able to handle day‑to‑day challenges and make decisions to keep things running smoothly. Ideally: knowledge of eyewear retail, optical dispensing or clinical optics (though not strictly mandatory - we value attitude and dedication).

What We Offer

The chance to be part of an independent, patient‑focused practice where you'll be truly valued. The opportunity to shape and grow the practice and influence how we operate and develop services. A supportive, friendly team environment – not corporate: we believe in long appointments, real patient care, and a relaxed but professional atmosphere. Competitive salary and benefits (to be discussed). A role where your contributions make a difference; both to the business, and to our patients' lives.

We look forward to hearing from you!