Consultant in Ophthalmology with a sub-specialty interest in Cornea with certificate of sponsorship to the UK
About the Position
We are seeking a highly skilled Consultant Ophthalmologist with a sub-specialty interest in Cornea to join our team at Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. This replacement position is based primarily at Leighton Hospital in Crewe, with some sessions at Victoria Infirmary in Northwich. The successful candidate will lead and support the Corneal service, including outpatient clinics, laser, and theatre sessions.
Visa Sponsorship Information
Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is pleased to offer a Certificate of Sponsorship to eligible international candidates for this Consultant in Ophthalmology position. If you’re a qualified ophthalmologist seeking to relocate to the UK, this opportunity provides a pathway to work within the NHS while receiving the necessary sponsorship for your visa application. The Trust will provide a Certificate of Sponsorship to eligible candidates, which is necessary for your Skilled Worker visa application.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will provide expert medical and surgical management of patients with corneal and external eye conditions, including keratoconus, corneal dystrophies, microbial keratitis, ocular surface inflammation, and dry eye disease. You will be responsible for performing full thickness and lamellar corneal transplant surgeries, endothelial keratoplasty, pterygium surgery, and complex cataract surgery.
General Ophthalmology Duties
In addition to your subspecialty focus, you will participate in general ophthalmology clinics, theatre lists, and emergency eye care on a shared rota basis. You’ll work closely with the multidisciplinary team including optometrists, nurses, orthoptists, and colleagues in neighbouring units, with appropriate referral mechanisms.
Qualifications and Experience
Applicants should have clinical training and experience equivalent to UK CCT Ophthalmology, with significant expertise in managing ophthalmic conditions and a subspecialty interest in Cornea. Fellowship-level training in Cornea is desirable. You must hold full GMC registration with a Licence to Practise and be on the Specialist Register, or within six months of achieving your Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT).
Essential Requirements
Full GMC Registration with license to practice, MBBS and FRCophth or equivalent qualifications, and entry on the GMC Specialist Register via CCT (proposed CCT date within 6 months of interview), CESR, or European Community Rights are essential. You must also demonstrate proven ability to conduct clinical and operative ophthalmology in all areas of the specialty.
Desirable Attributes
A PhD, MD or high degree is desirable, as is understanding of business planning and contracting. Proven experience in leading or facilitating change processes is also beneficial. The ability to demonstrate awareness of skills required for effective change processes and the ability to lead a team by positive example are highly valued.
Research and Teaching
We value candidates with proven involvement in clinical audit and a track record of ophthalmology research with evidence of publications. Evidence to allow accreditation as a Consultant Clinical Supervisor for trainee doctors with the GMC is essential, while accreditation as a Consultant Educational Supervisor is desirable.
About Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust provides comprehensive hospital and community services for East Cheshire (population 399K) and West Cheshire and Chester (population 357K). Our services include planned and unplanned/emergency care, cardiac and critical care, child health, maternity, and intermediate care across Leighton Hospital in Crewe, Victoria Infirmary in Northwich, and Elmhurst Intermediate Care Centre in Winsford.
Our Healthcare Community
Through our community arm, Central Cheshire Integrated Care Partnership, we deliver extensive services in 26 medical centres and schools in collaboration with Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS FT and the South Cheshire and Vale Royal GP Alliance. With 500 beds and around 5,500 staff, we are one of the area’s largest employers.
Working with Us
Since the formation of Integrated Care Systems in July 2022, the Trust has become a key partner in Cheshire East & Cheshire West and Chester and in two provider collaboratives. As part of the national New Hospital Programme, we’re reimagining Leighton Hospital to create a new health and care neighbourhood, transforming healthcare delivery for a Healthier Future.
Our Mission
At Mid Cheshire, our mission is to inspire hope and provide unparalleled care for the people and communities of Cheshire, helping them to enjoy life to the fullest. We are excited to welcome innovative, enthusiastic individuals who are keen to contribute to a supportive, friendly, and forward-thinking department.
Application Process
To apply for this position, please visit the NHS Jobs website and reference job number 412-S&C-7957267. Shortlisted candidates will be expected to visit the department prior to interview. The proposed AAC date is 23 June 2026.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the NHS Jobs portal. Please ensure you complete all sections of the application form, including your qualifications, experience, and personal statement. You will need to upload your CV, GMC registration certificate, and evidence of your ophthalmology qualifications. Please indicate in your application if you require sponsorship for a UK visa. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview at the hospital.
International Applicants
We welcome applications from qualified international ophthalmologists. If you require sponsorship to work in the UK, please indicate this in your application. The Trust will provide a Certificate of Sponsorship to eligible candidates, which is necessary for your Skilled Worker visa application. From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants applying for entry clearance into the UK must present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement.
Professional Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration with the General Medical Council (GMC). If you’re an international medical graduate, you’ll need to verify your qualifications are accepted by the GMC and complete any required assessments or examinations. You must hold full GMC registration with a Licence to Practise and be on the Specialist Register, or within six months of achieving your Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT).
Contact Information
For questions about the job, contact Kate Edwards, Interim Service Manager, at kate.edwards2@mcht.nhs.uk or by phone at 01270 255141. For more information about Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, visit our website at https://www.mcht.nhs.uk/.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 02 June 2026. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible, as applications will be reviewed as they are received. Late applications will not be considered.
Equal Opportunities
Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all our staff, regardless of their background, nationality, or personal circumstances. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Confidentiality
All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Your personal data will be processed in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). For more information, please refer to our privacy notice at https://www.mcht.nhs.uk/information-for-patients/confidentiality/staff-privacy-notice/.
Terms and Conditions
The post is offered under the terms of the 2003 Consultant Contract, with 8 programmed activities (PAs) for Direct Clinical Care (DCC) and 2 Supporting Professional Activities (SPA) per week. This is a full-time permanent position (with potential for job share) offering a salary ranging from £109,725 to £145,478 per year, pro rata. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced criminal record check and pre-employment health assessment.
Visa Requirements
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants applying for entry clearance into the UK must present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Applicants must have current UK professional registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) to be eligible for sponsorship.
Further Information
For more information about the role or the Trust, please visit our website or contact the hiring manager. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including NHS pension scheme, generous annual leave, and access to staff wellbeing services. We are committed to supporting professional development through continuing medical education and training opportunities.
Equal Opportunities Monitoring
We use equal opportunities monitoring data to ensure our recruitment processes are fair and inclusive. This information is collected separately from your application and will not influence your selection. All information will be treated confidentially and used for equality monitoring purposes only.
Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview at the hospital. The interview panel will include senior clinicians and managers. You may be asked to give a short presentation on your experience and approach to ophthalmology. Candidates will also have the opportunity to tour the department and meet the team.
Probationary Period
The successful candidate will be required to serve a probationary period of typically six months, during which their performance and integration into the team will be monitored. Regular support and feedback will be provided during this period to ensure a smooth transition into the role.
How to Apply – Repeat
To apply for this position, please visit the NHS Jobs website and reference job number 412-S&C-7957267. Complete all sections of the application form thoroughly, providing details of your qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role. Upload all required documents including your CV, GMC registration, and evidence of ophthalmology qualifications. Clearly indicate in your application if you require sponsorship for a UK visa. Applications must be submitted by the closing date of 02 June 2026.