Behind every well-run practice is a Practice Manager who’s balancing financial controls, patient demand, workforce challenges, and compliance frameworks and their contribution has never been more critical.
Salaries vary significantly, from £29,000 in smaller or rural practices to over £67,000 in larger urban or multi-site settings, particularly in London. Yet despite the growing complexity of the role, many managers still report feeling under-recognised.
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“The role of Practice Manager are fast becoming the operational engine of general practice. If you want a resilient, well-led service you need to invest in this role,” says Jamie Cutts, Divisional Manager at Compass Associates.
Attracting an exceptional Practice Manager starts with a strong, competitive package and a clear understanding of their career aspirations.
So, what are Practice Managers looking for in a new role?
In our experience of speaking to hundreds of Practice Managers who are looking for their next role, our consultants have highlighted the following requirements:
- Respect as strategic leaders, not just administrators
- Access to training in HR, finance, and leadership
- Clear role boundaries and responsibilities, especially in multi-site PCNs
- Supportive leadership and wellbeing culture, particularly in high-pressure environments
Failure to meet these expectations often results in rapid turnover, lost continuity, and operational strain on clinical teams.
Looking to attract new candidates and improve retention?
Our consultants help define and position Practice Manager roles that align with today’s market realities. From competitive benchmarking to succession planning, Compass Associates brings clarity, structure, and strategy to one of primary care’s most essential non-clinical hires.
Speak to our consultants to discover how your packages compare in the market and how to build a future-ready team.
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