Meet Practice Manager Leah Shepherd

Our Practice Manager in SpaDental Southwest, Leah Shepherd, brings her dedicated work ethic and enthusiasm for outstanding patient care to the practice. 

Here, Leah talks about the choices and hard work that have helped her on her chosen career path.

Leah remembers key stages so far

“I joined SpaDental Southwest as a newly qualified dental nurse, full of enthusiasm and eager to make a difference. From the very beginning, the supportive environment at SpaDental Southwest fostered my professional growth and allowed me to thrive in my career.

Starting as a Dental Nurse:

My journey began in a dynamic and collaborative setting where I assisted dentists during patient procedures, ensuring that each patient received the highest standard of care. My duties included preparing and sterilizing instruments, taking and developing X-rays, and providing chairside assistance during dental treatments. I also played a crucial role in maintaining patient records and ensuring the clinic adhered to strict hygiene protocols. The hands-on experience I gained here was invaluable and laid a solid foundation for my future roles.

Progressing to Lead Nurse:

After demonstrating my dedication and expertise, I was promoted to Lead Nurse. This role expanded my responsibilities significantly. I took on the task of mentoring and training new dental nurses, helping them adapt to the high standards of SpaDental Southwest. I coordinated the day-to-day activities of the nursing team, ensuring seamless operations and efficient patient care. Additionally, I was involved in managing stock levels, ordering supplies, and implementing new protocols to enhance our service delivery. This position honed my leadership skills and deepened my understanding of practice management.

Advancing to Practice Manager:

The recent highlight of my career at SpaDental Southwest is my promotion to Practice Manager. In this capacity, I oversee operations for SpaDental Plymouth and Saltash, combining clinical and administrative duties. My responsibilities include managing the clinic’s budget, coordinating staff schedules, ensuring compliance with health regulations, and enhancing patient satisfaction. I lead a talented team, driving initiatives to improve our services and maintain our reputation for excellence. Furthermore, I engage in strategic planning, aiming to expand our practice’s capabilities and community outreach. As a Practice Manager I must possess strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills to effectively manage these diverse responsibilities. My role is essential in ensuring the practice delivers high-quality dental care while maintaining a positive and productive work environment for the team.

Reflections:

Working at SpaDental Southwest has been a rewarding journey filled with opportunities for continuous learning and professional development. The organization’s commitment to excellence and its supportive culture have been instrumental in my career progression. Each role I have undertaken has equipped me with valuable skills and experiences, preparing me to lead with confidence and compassion.

I am proud to be part of SpaDental Southwest and grateful for the chance to grow within such a forward-thinking and patient-centred organization. My journey from newly qualified dental nurse to Practice Manager is a testament to the possibilities that exist within SpaDental Southwest for those who are dedicated and passionate about their work.”

We hope our patients in Devon and Cornwall will join us in congratulating Leah on her hard work and dedication. We all wish her well in her new role.

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