At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams in a thriving veterinary practice while ensuring operational excellence.
- Company: Abbey Veterinary Centres, a well-established multi-site practice in beautiful South Wales.
- Benefits: Up to £42,000 salary, 6 weeks holiday, health cash plan, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join an award-winning team focused on colleague wellbeing and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a supportive environment while enjoying stunning Welsh scenery.
- Qualifications: Previous management experience in a veterinary or similar setting and strong people skills.
Abbey Veterinary Centres has an exciting opportunity for an experienced and people-focused Practice Manager to join our friendly, well-established multi-site practice.
Working alongside our Clinical Directors, you'll play a key leadership role in driving operational excellence, supporting and developing our teams, and helping shape the future direction of the business.
Since the 1980s, Abbey Veterinary Centres has been providing exceptional veterinary care across Monmouthshire, Gwent and Powys. We are proud to offer:
- Four RCVS-accredited branches across Abergavenny, Monmouth, Brecon and Tredegar
- A skilled team of 12 vets, including certificate holders in Surgery, Medicine and Radiology
- An experienced nursing team and dedicated support colleagues
- A loyal client base and strong reputation for quality patient care
This is a varied and rewarding leadership position where you'll work closely with the Clinical Directors to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the practice while fostering a positive and supportive culture for both colleagues and clients.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, coach and support practice teams across our sites
- Manage and develop administrative and support teams
- Oversee recruitment, onboarding, employee development and workforce planning
- Support performance management processes, including appraisals, 1:1s and absence management
- Promote a positive team culture and effectively manage employee relations matters
- Drive high standards of customer service and support the resolution of client concerns
- Monitor operational performance, compliance, health and safety, and practice standards
- Support financial performance through effective resource, stock and debt management
- Identify opportunities for continuous improvement, efficiency and practice growth
- Work collaboratively with Clinical Directors and the wider VetPartners network to deliver business objectives
About You
We're looking for a confident and capable manager with a passion for people, leadership and operational excellence. You will ideally have:
- Previous management experience within a veterinary practice or similar environment
- Strong people management and team development skills
- Excellent communication and organisational abilities
- Experience managing multiple priorities and implementing change
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach
- A commitment to delivering outstanding client and patient experiences
Most importantly, you'll be a supportive leader who enjoys building strong relationships and helping teams thrive.
Why Join Us?
We are situated in a beautiful part of Wales with outstanding natural scenery. The area is known for its rolling countryside, beautiful mountains, historic market towns, and easy access to outdoor pursuits including walking, cycling, and exploring nearby national parks.
Despite its peaceful setting, the region is well connected, with straightforward links to larger towns and cities, making it an attractive option for those seeking space and quality of life without feeling isolated.
As proud members of the VetPartners family our excellent benefits include:
- 6 weeks holiday including bank holidays
- Health Cash Plan
- Discounted veterinary fees
- CPD and training support
- Company sick pay
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Offers, discounts and cashback on shopping, travel, entertainment and much more
- Annual pay reviews
- Career development opportunities
- A strong focus on colleague wellbeing
Join an Employer of the Year. VetPartners is recognised for its outstanding colleague culture, support and development opportunities.
For an informal discussion or to apply, please contact: hannah.welsman@abbeyvets.co.uk
Please apply directly - no agency submissions
Practice Manager in Abergavenny employer: VetPartners
At Tay Valley Vets, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment where your skills and wellbeing are our top priority. Located in the picturesque Perthshire, our practice not only offers excellent patient care but also encourages professional development with generous CPD allowances and a focus on work-life balance. Join our friendly team and enjoy a fulfilling career with ample opportunities for growth and a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Practice Manager in Abergavenny
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at VetPartners!
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at VetPartners.
We think you need these skills to ace Practice Manager in Abergavenny
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at VetPartners. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to VetPartners and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at VetPartners. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to VetPartners's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at VetPartners
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with VetPartners.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at VetPartners will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact VetPartners and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
