At a Glance
- Tasks: Support managers with HR guidance and ensure fair processes across our veterinary surgeries.
- Company: Join a compassionate veterinary group dedicated to supporting pet care professionals.
- Benefits: Full-time role with a supportive team and meaningful impact on colleagues' lives.
- Other info: Office-based role across Chatham and Maidstone, 40 hours per week.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of those who care for sick pets.
- Qualifications: 10 years of HR experience and working towards CIPD Level 5.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € per year.
We are a growing independent veterinary group with 50 surgeries, united by a shared purpose: supporting the incredible people who dedicate their lives to caring for sick pets. Behind every great veterinary team is strong, compassionate support - and that’s where our HR team comes in. We are proud of the role we play in creating a supportive, fair, and positive working environment across our practices.
About the Role
We’re looking for an experienced and approachable HR Executive to join our team, based across our Chatham and Maidstone surgeries. This is a hands‑on, people‑focused role where you’ll work closely with our HR Manager and colleagues to support our regional management teams across all areas of HR. You’ll be a trusted point of contact, helping managers navigate challenges while ensuring our processes remain fair, compliant, and supportive. This role would suit someone working towards CIPD Level 5, who enjoys being involved in the detail while also making a meaningful difference to people’s day‑to‑day working lives.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting managers across our surgeries with day‑to‑day HR guidance and advice
- Managing and supporting disciplinary processes, ensuring they are handled fairly, consistently, and in line with company policy and employment law
- Assisting with employee relations matters, including absence management and wellbeing support
- Preparing documentation and supporting tribunal hearings
- Responding to queries around reasonable adjustments with care and understanding
- Reviewing and updating HR policies to ensure compliance and best practice
- Helping ensure we stay aligned with UK employment law
- Supporting wider HR initiatives and projects across the group
- Maintaining accurate and confidential HR records
What We’re Looking For
Experience & Knowledge- At least 10 years’ experience in HR
- Experience in a multi‑site organisation or one with 300+ employees
- Working towards CIPD Level 5 (or equivalent)
- Solid understanding of UK employment law fundamentals
- Experience with:
- Disciplinary processes
- Absence management
- Policy development and compliance
- A resilient and calm approach, even when handling sensitive situations
- Genuine empathy and a people‑first mindset
- The ability to build trust and strong relationships with managers and colleagues
- A practical, organised approach with great attention to detail
- Confidence in communicating clearly and professionally
Why This Role Matters
The veterinary profession can be incredibly rewarding—but also emotionally demanding. Mental health and wellbeing are real and important challenges within our industry. In this role, you’ll be supporting people who care deeply about what they do. Your work will help ensure they feel supported, heard, and treated fairly—so they can continue doing what they do best. And while the work can be challenging, it’s also incredibly meaningful. You’ll be part of a team that helps make a genuine difference behind the scenes.
Additional Information
- This is a fully office‑based role (no home working)
- You will be based across our Chatham and Maidstone sites
- Full‑time, 40 hours per week - 8:30am–5:00pm
HR Executive in Chatham employer: DNA Vetcare Ltd
As a growing independent veterinary group, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and positive work environment for our HR team and the wider veterinary community. Our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in our hands-on approach, where you will play a crucial role in ensuring that our dedicated staff feel valued and heard. With opportunities for professional growth and a focus on compassionate support, joining us means being part of a team that truly makes a difference in the lives of those who care for sick pets.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Executive in Chatham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the veterinary field or HR community. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. Since we’re all about supporting people in their roles, think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your empathy and problem-solving skills. Be ready to share how you can make a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows you’re genuinely interested and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and really keen on joining our amazing team.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Executive in Chatham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the HR Executive role. Highlight your experience in multi-site organisations and any relevant qualifications like CIPD Level 5. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission of supporting veterinary teams!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for HR and how you can make a difference in our supportive environment. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm, so let your personality come through!
Showcase Your People Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to build trust and relationships. We’re looking for someone who can handle sensitive situations with empathy, so share examples of how you've done this in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at DNA Vetcare Ltd
✨Know Your HR Fundamentals
Make sure you brush up on UK employment law and HR best practices. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just experienced, but also knowledgeable about the legalities that underpin the role.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
This role is all about supporting others, so be ready to share examples of how you've built trust and strong relationships in previous positions. Highlight your empathetic approach and how it has helped resolve conflicts or improve team dynamics.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific HR situations, like disciplinary processes or absence management. Think through your responses ahead of time, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
As an HR Executive, attention to detail is key. Be prepared to discuss how you manage multiple tasks and maintain accurate records. You might even want to bring examples of how you've improved processes in past roles to illustrate your point.
