Overview
Explore your next opportunity
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Practice Manager to join our friendly and dynamic team at Academy Vets on a full-time, permanent basis. This is a people-focused, on-site leadership role, ideal for someone who is passionate about building strong relationships, supporting team development, and delivering an excellent client experience. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy making a real impact, this could be the perfect next step in your career.
Working closely with the Director of Practice & Clinical Services, Small Animal Clinical Director, and Head RVN, you will play a central role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the practice. You will lead from the front, fostering a positive, collaborative culture while supporting both clinical and non-clinical teams. With support from central teams, you’ll also contribute to the ongoing growth and development of the practice.
Rota patterns that work for you
This is a full-time role working 40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm. Our people are at the heart of everything that we do, that’s why we know that work-life balance is vital in supporting our people to be their best selves. Our flexible approach to rota patterns and working hours offers a balance that truly flexes with you and your lifestyle no matter what stage you are in your career.
Key responsibilities
* Leading, supporting, and motivating the team to create a positive working environment
* Maintaining high practice standards and ensuring compliance with RCVS guidelines
* Overseeing financial operations, including budgeting, stock control, and debt management
* Supporting payroll processes and handling related queries
* Managing HR responsibilities, including line management and annual reviews
* Overseeing building and equipment maintenance
* Ensuring Health & Safety compliance across the practice
* Supporting recruitment and monitoring staff training and development
* Acting as the first point of contact for IT queries (with central support)
* Handling client feedback and resolving complaints professionally
* Leading and attending practice and regional meetings
Our Team and Location
Our Team Academy Vets is a busy and well-established mixed practice, providing services across farm, small animal, and equine care. Our team includes 10 experienced vets, including clinical leadership roles, 3 RVNs (with ongoing recruitment to grow the team), and 11 dedicated and supportive administrative staff. We pride ourselves on our collaborative culture, strong team spirit, and commitment to high-quality care. Our structured on-call rota supports continuity for our clients while maintaining a healthy work/life balance for our team.
Location Our practices are based in Stranraer and Newton Stewart, with the main hub in Stranraer. This stunning coastal area offers outdoor activities such as sailing and kayaking on Loch Ryan, along with regional events and festivals. The location also provides convenient access to ferry links to Northern Ireland, making it scenic and well-connected.
You Might Be a Great Fit If
You are an experienced people and operations manager with strong leadership capability. You’ll bring:
* Proven experience in a management role, ideally within healthcare, veterinary, or service-led environments
* Strong people management skills, including performance management and team development
* Good operational and organizational capability, with the ability to manage competing priorities
* Experience handling complaints, change, and complex situations with confidence
* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
How We’ll Support You
At IVC Evidensia, we’re committed to supporting you in a senior operational leadership role. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:
* A key leadership role with responsibility for operational performance and team culture
* Clear career pathways with progression opportunities into senior practice or regional leadership roles
* Ongoing learning and development to support leadership and professional growth
* A collaborative, values-led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement
What We Offer Our Team
* 6.8 weeks holiday allowance
* Healthcare Cash Plan
* Cycle to Work scheme
* Green Cars salary sacrifice scheme
* Voluntary benefits: choose from a range of benefits to suit you
* Discounted staff pet care
* Access to discounts/cashback with hundreds of participating retailers
Up to £45,000 DOE
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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