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- Tasks: Lead a passionate team to deliver exceptional care for pets and their owners.
- Company: Join Blue Cross, a compassionate organisation dedicated to animal welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days holiday, health support, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of pets and their adopters every day.
- Qualifications: Experience in team management and delivering outstanding customer service required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and a supportive work environment.
The predicted salary is between 25787 - 27886 £ per year.
Contract: 8-month fixed term maternity cover, full time - 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £25,787 - £27,886 per annum
Location: Southampton, SO30 2HL
Closing date: Wednesday 18th February 2026
Interview date: Thursday 26th February 2026
We’re looking for a passionate and driven Assistant Manager – Client Services to join our team at the Southampton rehoming centre and help lead our work supporting people and pets. If you have a talent for delivering outstanding customer service, strong people management skills, and a genuine love for animal welfare, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact. This is a fixed term role until 30th September 2026.
More about the role
Our Southampton rehoming centre plays a vital role in supporting animals and their people, with on-site kennels and a cattery providing direct care and rehoming services. As part of a compassionate and dedicated team, you’ll help oversee day-to-day operations, support our clients, and ensure we’re making a positive difference in the lives of pets and their owners every day. As Assistant Manager – Client Services, you’ll be at the forefront of this work. You’ll:
- Lead and line manage the client services team to deliver exceptional care from first enquiry through to adoption or other support
- Work closely with the team to assess and admit pets, match them with the right adopters, and guide clients through every step of their journey
- Use data and insights to shape services and continuously improve client experience
- Collaborate with the local leadership team to meet targets and drive pet welfare outcomes
- Be hands-on with day-to-day operations including managing enquiries, prioritising admissions and promoting pets in our care
This is an 8-month maternity cover position until 30th September, working full time at 37.5 hours per week on a rota that includes 1 in 3 weekends and bank holidays. The working day is from 8.30am to 5.00pm.
At our Southampton rehoming centre, we provide onsite accommodation for pets in our care 24/7. Overnight shifts are usually undertaken by team members who live on site. Occasionally, you will be expected to carry out night checks when the resident team members are either not working or away for a period of time.
About you
You understand what it takes to match pets with new homes and are passionate about delivering an outstanding client experience. With a sharp eye for detail and a drive for improvement, you know how to assess what’s working – and what’s not. As a people manager, you're confident in leading by example, setting expectations, and ensuring your team has the support they need to succeed. A natural leader, you bring out the best in your team, supporting and coaching them to grow. You're calm under pressure, thrive in busy environments, and communicate clearly with people from all walks of life.
Your resilience and empathy shine through in emotional situations, helping you build trust, handle challenges with care, and create a compassionate, high-performing team.
Knowledge, skills, and experience
- Significant experience of managing a team.
- Experience in delivering high level customer service.
- Experience of working in a fast-paced environment.
- High standard of verbal and written communication.
- Proven decision-making ability.
- Current full driving licence.
- The ability to demonstrate, understand and apply our Blue Cross Values
It would be great (but not essential) if you also had:
- Performance management and improvement experience.
- Understanding of safeguarding issues.
- Experience of admission and adoption processes in a rescue environment.
How to apply: Click the apply button below and complete the online application process before the closing date Wednesday 18th February. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response.
Blue Cross benefits
Our people are the most important part of delivering our purpose. If it were not for their amazing efforts and commitment, we would not be able to make the difference that we do today. In return, Blue Cross wants to ensure we provide you with the best working environment we can. We want you to be happy working for us and will do everything we can to make sure you are. Our generous benefits package includes:
- Full time equivalent of 38 days holiday rising to 43 with service (including Bank Holidays)
- Programmes for physical and mental wellbeing support
- Free access to GP via MetLife- 24/7 GP services, private prescriptions and more for you and your family
- Health cash plan
- Unlimited access to an employee assistance programme
- Pension scheme with enhanced employer contribution
- Professional fees paid with Continuing Professional Development and personal development support.
- Life assurance
- 20% discount on Pet Plan pet insurance
- Enhanced family friendly policies
- Recognition scheme
- Annual volunteer days
- Charity worker discounts across a variety of retailers
Assistant Manager - Client Services (fixed term contract) in Northam employer: Blue Cross
Contact Detail:
Blue Cross Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Manager - Client Services (fixed term contract) in Northam
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Blue Cross and their values. When you understand what they stand for, you can tailor your conversations during interviews to show how you align with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to client services and team management. Role-play with a friend or in front of a mirror to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for animal welfare! Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to pets and their owners. This will help you connect with the interviewers on a deeper level.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Manager - Client Services (fixed term contract) in Northam
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Assistant Manager - Client Services. We want to see your passion for animal welfare and customer service shine through!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a people manager, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to lead and support a team. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past and how you can bring that experience to our Southampton rehoming centre.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website before the closing date! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Blue Cross
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Assistant Manager - Client Services role. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, such as leading the client services team and managing day-to-day operations. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the position.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a people manager, it's crucial to highlight your experience in leading teams and delivering exceptional customer service. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed a team or resolved conflicts in the past. This will show that you can bring out the best in your team and create a positive environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Animal Welfare
Since this role is centred around animal welfare, be ready to discuss your genuine love for animals and any relevant experiences you've had. Whether it's volunteering at a shelter or fostering pets, sharing your personal connection to the cause will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions to Ask
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about the role and the organisation. Ask about the team dynamics, challenges they face, or how success is measured in this position. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
