Starting as a Trainee Dental Nurse in 1985, Sharon is still as ambitious as ever to make a difference and develop. Now a Regional Operations Director at Bupa Dental Care, Sharon’s held multiple positions on her journey to success; Dental Nurse, Lead Nurse, Practice Manager, Business Manager, Cluster Manager, Regional Performance Manager and Area Manager. Sharon is a great example of the career opportunities at Bupa and in dentistry.
“From a young age, my mum had always taken me and my brother to the dentist and I was never scared. I liked the nurse – she used to give me a little badge when I visited – I think that’s why I wanted to go into nursing – Margaret was my inspiration!”
What made you go into dentistry?
From a young age, my mum had always taken me and my brother to the dentist and I was never scared. I liked the nurse – she used to give me a little badge when I visited – I think that’s why I wanted to go into nursing – Margaret was my inspiration!
What has been your biggest achievement?
I’m celebrating 25 years here, I think progressing from a Trainee Dental Nurse to being part of the leadership team has to be my biggest achievement. I am so passionate about the business and I want to be a role model for anyone else who wants to progress from the clinical side into the wider business function.
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What’s the best thing about your current role?
I get to work with a great team and I can make a difference to their understanding of the clinical side of the business, I really enjoy getting out and about and engaging with our dentists. I like the variety of being in a different place almost every day and meeting other people who feel just as passionate as I do about our business. I love making a difference and helping others realise their potential. Chatting to our Practice Managers on my visits and sharing my knowledge – gives me a lot of satisfaction. We put the customer at the centre of everything we do, all our decisions are made with them in mind, and I enjoy working with a team that share this mantra.
What is the most memorable moment from the time in your current job?
Celebrating 25 years here, there are many, probably too many to pick one. But in the whole time here I’ve never stopped learning, from starting as an apprentice to where I am now. The freedom awarded to better yourself and the support I’ve had to achieve it all here is probably the stand-out feeling for me.
Why have you remained at Bupa Dental Care for so long?
I have never felt that it would be right for me to move from Bupa – I get what I need and I don’t think I could get bored of being in dentistry! It’s been in my life for over 36 years so I guess Bupa is just now part of me. There is also always someone who will help you, the support I feel is really great.
What are your future ambitions?
To grow more good relationships and for the business to continue to thrive and grow, with me being a part of it. To share my knowledge further whilst learning new things. I’m really excited about our direction and how we’re creating better customer experiences, harnessing technology but also never forgetting the basics of great customer care.
What advice would you give to someone looking to make the move into a new role like yours?
Don’t hesitate, you just know when it’s right and always trust your gut instincts. Celebrating 25 years here, I know you’re never too old to learn and grow. Never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone – you can make a difference.
Our culture is centered around going above and beyond for patients. Whether you’re working with patients directly or indirectly, you’ll be based within an empowering environment to give your all to create positive experiences and broad smiles.
Our caring approach extends to our employees too. It’s why we’re so big on training, development, and progression. It’s also why our practices are such friendly, collaborative places – people quickly become friends as well as colleagues.
As the only corporate dental provider in the UK not backed by private equity, we’re in a unique position. We’re committed to the UK dental industry for the long-term – both private and NHS – and are ready to treat not just today’s patients, but generations to come.
Furthermore, Bupa has no shareholders, so we’re able to focus 100% on delivering the best service for customers. We are run commercially to ensure we remain competitive, but we reinvest 100% of our profits to help provide better care for patients across the world.
Why not join us today? You can find our latest vacancies here.
