We recently spent time with Carl Downing, our NHS Partnership Executive for our ACES Clinic based in Birmingham. Carl is one of the newest team members to join the ACES team, so we wanted to take some time to hear more about him, from his previous work experience with the NHS to his dream plans if he ever wins the lottery!
- What were you doing before you joined ACES?
I joined ACES after working directly with the NHS for over 25 years, firstly as a GP Practice Manager/IT Manager and then later selling digital tech solutions to help healthcare become more efficient. I’ve always found healthcare to be a fascinating industry, one that is very rewarding and provides the possibility of making a huge difference to both patients’ and staff’s lives.
- What first attracted you to join ACES?
The potential to help the NHS cut waiting times down for procedures and provide patients with a better experience. I’ve witnessed the backlogs and delays within the NHS for many years, both personally and professionally, so it’s important to me that I play my part in helping shape how services are delivered better and quicker to patients.
- Can you explain what your role with ACES involves?
My role is to create positive relationships with various healthcare teams and providers, to help them become aware of ACES and the services we provide. As a highly visible professional in the region representing the ACES brand, I’ll help increase engagement and referrals, thus reducing the burden on the NHS.
“I’ve witnessed the backlogs and delays within the NHS for many years, both personally and professionally, so it’s important to me that I play my part in helping shape how services are delivered better and quicker to patients.”
- What excites you most about your role?
I have spent the last few years in remote or working from home roles which didn’t provide a huge amount of face-to-face engagement, thus getting out and meeting healthcare professionals is an exciting opportunity. I’ve been very focussed historically on GP practices, so meeting and engaging with Optometrists and Opticians will be a new and exciting experience for me. I’m looking forward to learning a lot of new things on this journey.
- What is the best piece of advice that you’ve ever received?
“Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value” is a great piece of advice that I came across, I believe it was Albert Einstein.
- What would you do if you won the lottery?
If I won the lottery, I would enjoy lots of exciting adventures travelling with my wife and kids. I’d also like to buy properties for our parents and ourselves, all in the same plot, mostly so there would be no excuses from grandparents about childminding availability!
If you are interested in referring your NHS patients to our ACES clinic in Birmingham, please get in touch with Carl Downing via CarlDowning@aceseyeclinic.co.uk, or alternatively give him a call on 07469 358 429.
If you or someone you know has an interest in a career with ACES, please send your CV to careers@aces-eyeclinic.co.uk or visit our Careers page.
