From optometrist to my dream job

Ellie Barker, Associate Clinical Performance Consultant (CPC) at Specsavers, shares her career journey and why this role has given her the perfect balance of flexibility, trust, and impact.

My journey originally began at Specsavers

“I’ve worked with Specsavers since university, starting as an Optical Assistant in my hometown store. I did my pre-reg during Covid and qualified in 2021. After that, I moved to Leeds and became Lead Optometrist at the City Centre store, where I stayed for a couple of years before leaving in January 2024. During this time, I completed professional qualifications such as a Professional Certificate in Glaucoma and Medical Retina as well as supervised pre-reg optometrists

I’d applied for a CPC role at Specsavers before but wasn’t successful due to lack of essential experience. As I knew it was a role I wanted to pursue, I went out and gained the skills I needed to broaden my clinical experience. I joined a private cataract provider for four days a week and worked as a Clinical Supervisor at the University of Bradford one day per week. During this time, I also started my Independent Prescribing (IP) qualification and became a WOPEC assessor.

I knew it was a match

When I heard about the new Associate CPC role, I knew it was the right match. I was thrilled when the recruiter contacted me!

I’ve always pushed myself to be better and knew I wouldn’t want to stop once I qualified as an Optometrist. I love coaching and supporting others, and this role gives me the chance to do that every day. It’s flexible, offers a better work-life balance, and allows me to develop skills that will prepare me for a full CPC role. I feel trusted and supported; my manager gives me the independence to manage my own diary, and that trust motivates me to deliver my best.

Day to day, I work with store partners to identify areas for support and improve clinical excellence. That might mean coaching optometrists, observing clinics, delivering training, or encouraging additional accreditations. We also work on bigger projects like improving access to care, speaking to MPs at party conferences or promoting corporate eye care at HR events. One exciting part of the job is going on university discovery days and meeting optometry students that are looking to join Specsavers for their pre-registration placements.. This role enables us to work collaboratively to shape the future of optometry.

Making a big impact

One example of the impact we make is supporting with the fully automated refraction systems (FARS) installations. We help with setup, ensure communications are clear, and follow up to keep everything running smoothly. It’s all about freeing up clinicians’ time so they can focus on what matters most - patient care and meaningful conversations.

It’s a natural next step

Optometrists should consider CPC as a career choice because it’s a natural next step if you want progression without sacrificing balance. Testing can feel repetitive, but this role is different every day. I travel, meet new people, and face new challenges. I coach, influence, and make a real difference. Honestly, if I could describe my dream job, this would be it.”