Dispensing Optician Manager – Private Independent Opticians Location: Alton, Hampshire Salary: £37,000 – £41,500 DOE Employment Type: Full-time | Monday to Saturday rota (1 Saturday off per month) | No Sundays or Bank Holidays Visa Sponsorship: Not available Compass Associates are proud to be working in partnership with a well-established and highly respected independent optical practice in Alton, Hampshire, who are looking to appoint a GOC-registered Dispensing Optician Manager to lead their friendly and professional branch team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Dispensing Optician who enjoys combining clinical expertise with team leadership and operational management within a patient-focused independent environment. Located in the historic market town of Alton, the practice benefits from a loyal patient base, strong community reputation, and a welcoming working environment, offering an excellent balance between professional development and quality of life. The Role As Dispensing Optician Manager, you will play a key role in overseeing both the clinical and operational performance of the branch. You’ll lead by example in delivering exceptional patient care while supporting the wider team, managing branch operations, and ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the practice. The role combines hands-on dispensing responsibilities with leadership, team development, administration, and commercial oversight, making it an ideal opportunity for someone looking to progress within a respected independent business. Key Responsibilities Deliver high-quality spectacle dispensing including frame styling, lens recommendations, fittings, and adjustments Support seamless patient journeys through effective three-way handovers with the Optometrist Manage patient queries, non-tolerances, repairs, and rechecks professionally and efficiently Ensure accurate focimetry, measurements, fittings, and order processing Liaise with suppliers regarding spectacle orders and delivery updates Maintain accurate clinical records and branch administration in line with GDPR requirements Support and supervise trainee or student Dispensing Opticians where required Lead and motivate the branch team, promoting a positive and supportive culture Oversee daily branch operations including opening and closing procedures, banking, cash handling, and keyholder responsibilities Manage rotas, holiday approvals, staffing levels, and communication with HR Conduct staff performance reviews and support ongoing training and development Monitor branch stock levels, frame stock management, and supplier visits Support financial processes including budgets, incentives, invoices, and weekly branch reporting Assist with local marketing initiatives, open days, and community events Ensure the practice environment remains professional, welcoming, and well presented Lead on Health & Safety procedures, compliance, and equipment maintenance within the branch Requirements Previous experience within an optical dispensing environment Level 6 Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing (or equivalent) GOC registration Previous management or supervisory experience is advantageous Strong leadership and communication skills with a patient-first mindset Confident using IT systems with strong organisational ability Ability to coach, motivate, and support team development Positive, adaptable, and motivated to develop within a progressive independent practice Package & Benefits Competitive salary: £37,000 – £41,500 DOE 33 days holiday including bank holidays No Sunday or Bank Holiday working 1 Saturday off per month Company pension scheme Incentive scheme Staff and family discounts Ongoing training and development support, including CPD events Career progression opportunities within a growing independent group Company sick pay Perkbox and Employee Assistance Programme Team-building events and a genuinely supportive culture Internal WhatsApp support groups Interview Process The process is swift and transparent, designed to assess both clinical and cultural fit: Initial telephone interview with the Area Manager Final on-site interview within the practice Interested? If you’re a GOC-registered Dispensing Optician seeking an opportunity to step into a leadership role within a highly regarded independent practice, we’d love to hear from you. This is an excellent opportunity to join a business that genuinely prioritises patient care, staff wellbeing, and long-term career development. Contact Ben Warnes Compass Associates – Audiology & Hearing Care Division 07908 224 207 bwarnes@compassltd.co.uk