Practical Course Coordinator (Lead) - Swindon | IR 436

Improve International was established in 1998 by a group of veterinary surgeons from across the UK. We run Continuous Professional Development training for veterinary professionals to help develop the skills and knowledge required in practice. Our programmes utilise a combination of review lectures, case-based discussion and, where applicable, hands-on practical sessions.

Within Improve International Group we also have ‘The International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS)’. ISVPS is dedicated to providing veterinary surgeons, nurses and technicians with high quality, achievable qualifications that are recognised internationally. We are an international organisation with offices in the UK and Portugal.

To oversee the general administration of practical courses, ensuring high-quality delivery and effective communication with delegates, speakers, and sponsors. This role includes leading a small team and facilitating smooth operational logistics to enhance the educational experience for attendees.

• Course Coordination and Administration: Prepare and set up the practical room for courses, including laying out relevant equipment, preparation of cadavers, and care/maintenance of surgical instruments. Perform post-course clean-up, manage cadaver handling, and ensure adherence to cremation protocols. Liaise with delegates to address enquiries, resolve issues, and ensure their needs are met throughout the course experience. Lead and mentor a small team of practical course coordinators, providing guidance on best practices and fostering a collaborative work environment. Facilitate regular team meetings to discuss course preparations, share feedback, and address challenges.
• Communication and Liaison: Engage with speakers to confirm participant numbers, accommodation needs, equipment requirements, and distribution of materials. Coordinate with sponsors to ensure they are informed of attendance details and fully briefed on any specific requirements related to their involvement. Collaborate with the Head of Practical Delivery on course scheduling, confirmations, and potential cancellations as necessary.
• Course Promotion and Support: Attend Improve courses at various venues across the country to represent the organization and promote future offerings to delegates. Provide support to delegates regarding financial queries and sales of short courses, ensuring a smooth registration process.
• Operational Management: Monitor the quality of course delivery, identifying areas for improvement and implementing solutions to enhance the delegate experience. Maintain accurate records of course attendance, delegate feedback, and logistical arrangements for continuous improvement.

Requirements:

• 2+ years’ experience in a relevant veterinary, animal care, or health care environment.
• Familiarity with current surgical procedures within veterinary practice and associated instrumentation and equipment.
• Experience or willingness to support and deliver human healthcare courses, including practical sessions using human tissue, in line with relevant governance, health and safety, and ethical requirements.
• Proven interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively with individuals and groups at all levels.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated and autonomous, with effective time management abilities.
• Good IT literacy is essential; knowledge of database software is a plus.
• Ability to lift light equipment and heavy items necessary for preparing wet labs.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends, with potential travel as required.
• Demonstrable ability to lead, support, and motivate a team, ensuring clear communication, effective coordination, and high standards of course delivery.

Benefits:

• Annual Leave Entitlement: UK 25 days increasing an additional day after 3 years of service and again by an additional day after 10 years service - to a total of 27 days per annum.
• Additional Leave: Office closure on the afternoon of before the 25th December and the 1st January each year.
• Pension: UK Employee 4% and Employer 5%. The employer contribution increases with a step change % of 1% increase every 3 years to a max of 10%.
• Weekly Hours: UK 37.5
• Working Arrangements: The practical programs run across the week and can include some evenings and weekends. Base: Office based in Swindon with some hybrid working available.
• Annual bonus: Discretionary Annual Bonus (based on company and personal performance)
• Vision Testing: Eye care voucher for eye testing UK.
• Electric Car Scheme: UK Salary Sacrifice (after 1 year of service)
• Maternity/Adoption Leave: 16 weeks company maternity leave/pay
• Paternity/Adoption leave
• Refer a friend programme
• Bring your dog to work
• Free tea and coffee
• Parking