Head of Clinical Services - Bristol (J219) - South West

Head of Clinical Services - Bristol 

£75-90k p.a 

Our client, a top provider of NHS and Private ophthalmology services, has an exciting opportunity for a Head of Clinical Services to join their team! 

The role: 

As Head of Clinical Services, you will be a figurehead of the organisation, reporting directly to the clinical directors. You will shape and deliver the clinical vision, drive professional development, and ensure regulatory compliance across all our practices. 

• 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 ICB audit readiness. 

• Attend the Clinical Governance Committee and represent the group at industry forums (including CPD events, conferences and in stores/practices). 

• 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 (e.g. glaucoma referral refinement, cataract, YAG/SLT pathways). 

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

• Oversee all planned outpatient clinical activity across all locations. 

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

• Build relations with various different stakeholders (such as ICBs/NHS trusts/Health Boards/Primary Care) to optimise patient care. 

Key skills/experience: 

• Fully qualified optometrist registered with the General Optical Council (GOC). 

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

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

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills. 

• Confident use of Office 365 and tech systems (training provided) 

• Great communication skills, both written and verbal 

• An understanding of CQC standards, NHS Standards and ICB criteria 

Desirable 

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

• Higher qualifications (e.g., MOptom, Professional Certificate in Glaucoma, IP qualification) strongly preferred. 

• Published research or contributions to optometric journals. 

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

• Strategic thinker with a commercial awareness. 

Benefits: 

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays (increasing with service) 

• Performance bonus 

• Company pension scheme 

• Enhanced family leave and sick pay 

• Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 confidential support 

• Perks & Discounts – from private healthcare/dental care to retail savings 

• GOC fees paid + generous CPD allowance. 

• Ongoing training and development opportunities