Optical Manager / Dispensing Optician – Leading National Optical Retailer - Chatham

Job description

Optical Manager / Dispensing Optician – Leading National Optical Retailer

Location: Chatham Docks, Gillingham

Salary: Up to £40,000 DOE (FTE)

Employment Type: Part-Time, Permanent

Hours: 40 hours per week

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Optical Manager / Dispensing Optician to join a well-established national optical retailer in Chatham Docks, Gillingham. You will play a pivotal role in leading the optical team, overseeing daily operations, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality eye care services with a patient-first focus.

The Role

As the Optical Manager, you will be responsible for managing the full optical department and supporting a team of optometrists and optical assistants. You’ll ensure operational excellence, maintain clinical and service standards, and champion a supportive environment that enables colleagues to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, manage and inspire your optical team to deliver exceptional patient care.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of the optical department, including compliance, clinic flow and performance.
• Manage administrative and operational tasks such as stock, rotas and department standards.
• Coach and support team members to develop professionally and maintain clinical excellence.
• Work collaboratively with clinical staff to balance patient care and business objectives.

Rota

• Tuesday: 09:00 – 18:00
• Wednesday: 09:00 – 18:00
• Thursday: 09:00 – 18:00
• Friday: 09:00 – 18:00
• Saturday: 09:00 – 18:00

Requirements

• Fully qualified Dispensing Optician registered with the GOC (General Optical Council).
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent organisational and time-management abilities.
• Passionate about delivering outstanding patient care and excellent service.
• Commercially aware with the ability to drive performance while maintaining high clinical standards.

Benefits

You’ll receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Competitive salary plus discretionary bonus scheme.
• Company pension with matched contributions.
• Colleague discount in store and online.
• Free access to wellbeing support services.
• GOC fees paid and a supportive CET package.
• Flexible working patterns aligned with store opening hours.
• Inclusive family-friendly leave policies.

Referral Scheme

Compass Associates Ltd is acting as the exclusive recruitment partner for this vacancy.

We offer a £200 John Lewis voucher for every successful recommendation or referral.

Interested?

If you’re an experienced Dispensing Optician with leadership skills and a passion for excellent patient service, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact Information

Matt Summers

Phone: 02393 874 318

Mobile: 07964 099 056

Email: msummers@compassltd.co.uk

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Chatham

Type of Contract

Part-time jobs

Published at

04-02-2026

Profession type

Retail

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English