Site Operations Manager in Guildford

About the Company

At Anima Care, our vision is simple. We want to be the trusted, independent leader in pet cremation, setting the standard for dignified, compassionate aftercare.

Role Purpose

We are currently recruiting at our Silvermere Haven Pet Crematorium/Pet Cemetery.

As Site Operations Manager, you are accountable for the safe, efficient, and compliant day-to-day operation of the site, ensuring organisational standards are consistently met.

You will lead operational delivery with a best‑in‑class approach to safety, quality, and performance, driving continuous improvement through effective planning, strong stakeholder relationships, and disciplined execution.

Through visible, values led leadership, you will develop the operational team and maintain a positive culture that supports sustained site performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational
• Deputise for the General Manager in their absence, taking full site responsibility and accountability.
• Function as the primary point of contact for all site operational tasks and issues.
• Manage all waste handling processes, regulatory compliance, and deliver quarterly EA submissions (if WAMITAB certified).
• Maintain robust health & safety compliance by completing required forms, reports, and leading regular site audits.
• Ensure compliance with environmental permits and lead visits from the EA, local authorities, and APHA.
• Ensure all stock movements are accurately recorded and promptly report any supply issues.
• Complete all company documentation accurately across paper based and digital systems.
• Ensure the adoption of a clean, safe working environment and maintain a professional appearance.
• Ensure vehicle and equipment is maintained in line with manufacturers guidelines.
• People
• Lead a team that’s committed to striving for operational excellence who are relentless in striving for ‘best in class
• Perform all duties with integrity and in an ethical, professional, and dignified manner.
• Manage the full colleague lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, training, coaching, development, performance management, and absence management.
• Sales and Financial
• Drive cost control and profitability by monitoring and tracking invoices, challenging variances, and supporting budget management.
• Manage budget responsibilities, including accurate oversight of payroll.
• Maintain accurate and organised invoice and financial records.
• Client Service
• Deliver compassionate, respectful, and empathetic interactions at all times.
• Handle client complaints promptly and professionally with the upmost integrity
• Maintain professional, respectful communication with vet practices, suppliers, and members of the public

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership with the ability to take full site responsibility when required
• Clear, confident communicator across all levels and providing divisional support
• strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret operational data and make informed decisions
• Effective decision-making and ability to prioritise effectively under pressure, managing multiple tasks and deadlines
• Skilled in resource planning, ensuring labour, equipment, and materials are used efficiently
• Demonstrates commercial awareness, understanding how decisions impact cost, efficiency, and performance
• Confident in challenging and leading continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to streamline workflows
• Strong risk management capability, with the ability to foresee issues and implement preventative measures within both health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to performance manage and provide strong PDR appraisals
• Professional, empathetic, and customer focused approach.
• excellent IT proficiency, comfortable using digital tools, reporting systems, and operational software
• Flexible and adaptable to changing operational demands.

Behavioural Competencies

• High level of emotional intelligence, supporting colleagues through challenging or sensitive situations.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
• Demonstrates responsible, considerate behaviour and sets a positive example by understanding how actions impact the team, clients, and overall service.
• Applies strong judgement and critical thinking skills to make balanced, informed decisions in a variety of operational situations.

Experience & Qualifications

Essential

• Proven experience in an operational management role
• Demonstrated experience coaching, training, performance managing and developing colleagues.
• Experience managing daily operations, processes, and frontline teams.
• Confident handling challenging situations and making informed decisions.
• Experience completing compliance, health & safety, or audit related tasks.
• Customer facing experience with the ability to manage sensitive interactions professionally.
• Capable of using IT tools to complete digital and administrative tasks.
• Physically fit and able to undertake manual handling tasks involving heavy lifting
• Flexibility for a range of shift times depending on operational needs
• Driving experience

Desirable

• IOSH/NEBOSH
• WAMITAB
• ADR licence
• Fire Warden
• First Aid
• Equal Opportunity Statement

Anima Care is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve.