The sudden absence of a practice manager, whether planned or unexpected, can create a significant leadership vacuum in a busy GP practice. The immediate thought is often about finding temporary cover to handle the day-to-day essentials. But what if that temporary cover could offer much more than just a safe pair of hands?
Enter the locum practice manager. In its simplest form, a locum PM is an experienced professional who can step in to cover absences. However, to view them as mere placeholders is to miss their true value. Many are highly experienced managers who have chosen to work as locums to share their wealth of knowledge with a diverse range of practices.
This article explores the strategic advantages a locum practice manager can bring to your organisation, moving beyond simple absence cover to become a catalyst for support, strategy, and stability.
What is a locum practice manager?
A locum practice manager is a seasoned healthcare administration professional who works on a temporary, contractual basis. They are often equipped with years, or even decades, of experience across various practice sizes and environments. This background means they have likely navigated many of the challenges your practice is facing before.
They have chosen this career path specifically to apply their expertise to new challenges, making them more than just caretakers. They are temporary partners who can bring a fresh perspective, specialised skills, and strategic depth to your team.
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Beyond absence cover: the strategic value of a locum PM
While ensuring operational continuity is a key benefit, the real power of a locum PM lies in their ability to provide targeted, high-level support. They are an investment in your practice's health and can be deployed in several strategic ways.
1. Supporting a new or developing practice manager
Promoting a deputy to the manager role or hiring an external candidate with great potential is an excellent step for succession planning. However, they may lack hands-on experience in specific complex areas, such as the nuances of NHS contract negotiations or preparing for a CQC inspection.
A locum PM can be brought in for a fixed period to act as a mentor. They can work alongside your new manager, providing one-on-one guidance, building their confidence, and helping them develop the necessary competencies in a live environment. This targeted support ensures your new leader is set up for long-term success.
2. Driving special projects and managing change
GP practices are in a constant state of evolution. You may be facing a significant one-off project that threatens to overwhelm your current management team.
Common scenarios include:
Preparing the practice for a CQC inspection.
Implementing a new clinical system or digital tool.
Overseeing a major overhaul of practice policies and procedures.
Managing a complex premises move or refurbishment.
A locum PM can be hired specifically to lead these projects. Their dedicated focus means critical day-to-day operations aren’t neglected, while their experience ensures the project is managed efficiently and effectively from start to finish.
3. Stabilising the practice during challenging times
Sometimes a practice faces a period of instability. This could be due to the long-term sick leave of a senior partner or manager, significant staff turnover, or internal disagreements that are impacting performance. During these times, the practice needs a firm, experienced hand to guide it.
A locum practice manager provides an objective and neutral presence. They can step in to stabilise operations, support the remaining team, and restore a sense of order. Because they are not part of the existing internal dynamic, they can often identify underlying issues and suggest practical solutions to help the practice move forward constructively.
Finding the right locum support for your practice
Finding the right individual whose skills and experience match your practice's specific needs is crucial. For practices seeking broader strategic advice or consultancy, you may find the right expert on our own list of experienced practice management advisors.
For dedicated locum cover, there are excellent specialised services available. Resources run by well-known and respected figures within the primary care community, such as Tracy Dell's Locum Practice Manager (link), are invaluable for connecting practices with professional locums.
A strategic investment in your practice's health
Viewing a locum practice manager as more than just an operational expense is key. They are a strategic investment in the resilience, efficiency, and future success of your practice. By providing mentorship, leading critical projects, or offering stability when it’s needed most, they can deliver value that lasts long after their contract has ended.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and reflects understanding as of 25 June 2025. It does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. Practices should consult with relevant professional bodies or legal counsel for specific circumstances and always refer to the latest official NHS England (and other relevant bodies) guidance and contractual documents.