Oliver’s career move for more flexibility and fulfilment

When Oliver Imber finished his physiotherapy degree in 2022, he knew he wanted a clinical career that made a difference. But after a year in private practice, life shifted. Moving to a new location meant his priorities changed too.

“I needed more flexibility at work,” Oliver says. “Something that still made use of my clinical skills but worked better for my life.”

But just when he thought that finding flexible physio jobs would be impossible, he found out about Advo Health and a role that offered both purpose and adaptability. He remembers how exciting it was to discover this unique opportunity in the remote physiotherapy jobs market – a refreshing option for anyone considering a new direction in their physio career.

“It was such a relief to realise I could use my clinical skills in a way that fit my life. I never thought I’d find a physio role that let me work remotely and still make a real difference,” Oliver says.

He first heard about Advo Health from a colleague who had already made the move. Encouraged by the idea of having a more flexible healthcare career, he joined Advo and began with a couple of days a week in clinic, before moving into a fully remote setup. “It’s the kind of balance that’s hard to find in more traditional physio jobs” he says.

Working as a Functional Assessor, Oliver supports people applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). It’s a career that brings together healthcare expertise and human connection, offering clinicians a new way to make a real impact, while working in a way that suits their life – an exciting alternative for physiotherapists exploring a new career direction.

Helping others feel heard

For Oliver, putting people at ease is a key part of what makes the role meaningful. He approaches each assessment with compassion and clarity, knowing that a calm, supportive environment can make all the difference.

“People are often anxious at the start of the assessment. I always explain that I’m not the one making benefit decisions. I’m just there to help gather the right information – together. It’s a team effort.”

That human approach is particularly important for those with mental health conditions or cognitive challenges. “When people feel listened to and understood, it makes a huge difference.”

Oliver also plays a role in supporting new assessors through their training. “I talk to people who are starting the job, and they often feel overwhelmed,” he says. “I remind them that’s completely normal as it’s a big shift in how you think and work.”

He remembers feeling the same way. “I felt overwhelmed in the beginning. There’s a lot to take in with PIP assessments and how the role works.”

One of the things that helped him was realising how many transferable skills in physiotherapy, like communication, assessment, and empathy, could be used in this new setting. But he also credits Advo’s training programme for helping him through that transition.

 “My top tip is to trust the process. The training is well-structured, and every stage is there for a reason. You’re not expected to get everything right straight away.” He adds, “Don’t rush. Take your time. If you commit to the process, you’ll come out confident and capable. You’re not on your own, there’s support at every step of the way.”

A career that works for life

For Oliver, becoming a Functional Assessor wasn’t just a career change, it was a move toward greater work-life balance, long-term career flexibility, and meaningful impact.

“You still use your clinical knowledge and make a difference. But now I do it in a way that fits around my life, and that’s made a big difference to me.”

Ready to make a change?

If you’re a physiotherapist looking for a role with more flexibility, purpose, and support, then becoming a Functional Assessor with Advo Health might be the right step for you.

At Advo, we offer hybrid or remote positions, as well as new opportunities to advance their physio career. Whether you want to apply your transferable skills in physiotherapy to a new environment or are looking for greater work-life balance, there’s a role here for you.

Visit our careers page to learn more about the Functional Assessor role and to find out about opportunities to join Advo.