Operations Manager in York, Yorkshire

My client, located on the east side of York, is a long-established and highly respected farm-animal veterinary practice that has built its reputation over many years by delivering consistently high-quality livestock care, developing strong partnerships with farming communities, and investing in both modern facilities and a dedicated team of skilled veterinary professionals. As part of its strategic growth, the practice is seeking a highly organised and experienced Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day operations across the business. This includes Warehousing, Sales, Customer Service, and Veterinary Services, all essential to maintaining high standards of livestock care. This role offers an excellent opportunity for a proactive individual with strong operational and leadership experience to support a growing practice focused on rural enterprises and the farming community.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive continuous improvements in productivity, implementing innovative processes that enhance efficiency, support herd and flock health services, and improve the overall client experience for agricultural customers.
• Manage all practice reporting, including budgeting, billing, stock control, and financial performance reporting.
• Lead key HR functions, such as recruitment, staff training, performance management, and employee wellbeing.
• Ensure compliance with veterinary legislation, agricultural health requirements, and all relevant health & safety standards both on-site and during farm visits.
• Coordinate client communications to optimise workflows and ensure timely support for farmers and livestock managers.
• Maintain exceptional client care standards, offering a professional, solutions-focused approach at all times.
• Develop and implement new operational policies and procedures to support business efficiency and growth.
• Liaise with suppliers and service partners, ensuring effective procurement, equipment maintenance, and smooth operation of the practice and associated store or warehouse functions.
• Support marketing and community-engagement initiatives to strengthen the practice's presence within the local agricultural sector.
• Oversee the smooth daily running of the practice, ensuring consistency, reliability, and operational excellence.

Skills & Experience

• Strong management capability, ideally gained within the agricultural or veterinary sectors, with a focus on operational efficiency.
• Robust financial management skills, including experience with budgeting and financial reporting.
• Good knowledge of HR processes, including recruitment, staff development, and wellbeing.
• Ability to prioritise effectively within a fast-paced, service-driven environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with confidence when liaising with farmers, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Proven leadership ability, with a track record of motivating teams, leading by example, and fostering a positive working culture.
• Experience using SAGE200 and Phocus (or similar systems) is essential. Training can be provided for the right candidate.

This role is ideal for a motivated and forward-thinking professional who wants to make a meaningful impact within a dynamic agricultural services business. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving operational excellence while contributing to the wellbeing of staff and the farming communities the practice supports.