Entry requirements, skills and interests (practice manager)

Entry requirements

You could enter a career in practice management from a range of different backgrounds. You don't necessarily need to be a qualified healthcare professional.

Typically, you would be an accomplished manager, bringing both day-to-day management skills as well as a strategic perspective, for one or more partner medical practices.

Qualifications and experience required will vary, but you’ll usually need a management qualification, and a proven experience of motivating people.  Experience of working in the NHS/general practice experience can be an advantage.

Details of the exact requirements for individual practice manager vacancies can be found in the person specifications in job vacancies on the NHS Jobs website.

Find out more about the training you’ll receive for a career in practice management

• Skills, qualities and interests needed

  For a career in practice management, you’ll need a variety of skills and qualities, typically including:

  • excellent financial skills
  • the ability to manage a changing environment
  • good communication skills
  • leadership and motivational skills
  • organisational skills
  • a willingness to work with others and respect their views
  • confidence with information technology
  • negotiating skills
  • the ability to challenge the way things are and find better alternatives
  • honesty and fairness in dealing with other people
  • a commitment to the ideals of quality and fairness in delivering healthcare.

  If you're applying for a role either directly in the NHS or in an organisation that provides NHS services you'll be asked to show how you think the NHS values apply in your everyday work.

  The NHS values form a key part of the NHS Constitution.

  Find out more about the NHS Constitution