Operations Manager

About the Role

This is a full-time, permanent position overseeing all operational aspects of Cromwell Veterinary Group’s portfolio of practices. You’ll join the Senior Leadership Team in a pivotal role that blends strategic decision-making with hands-on leadership across multiple sites. The group comprises a busy 24-hour first opinion small animal hospital and five branch surgeries, all underpinned by dedicated out-of-hours facilities. This is leadership that genuinely matters—your ideas, people focus, and drive for excellence will directly shape the culture and success of the business.

Wellbeing is woven into the fabric of Cromwell’s ethos, with the group championing better work-life balance and supporting the WellVet Initiative. You’ll be working within the broader Linnaeus and Mars Veterinary Health ecosystem, giving you access to specialist networks and comprehensive support while maintaining autonomy in decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the smooth operational running of all Cromwell practices, ensuring consistency and excellence across the multi-site network
• Drive delivery of business strategy and support continuous growth aligned with group objectives
• Lead and champion exceptional client experience initiatives, ensuring teams are engaged and delivering quality care
• Manage key operational areas including HR, health & safety, finance, marketing, and client care
• Act as a trusted link between practice teams and Linnaeus central support functions, facilitating communication and collaboration
• Provide confident, compassionate leadership that inspires diverse teams to thrive and feel valued
• Support positive team culture and drive quality of care–oriented performance metrics

Requirements

• Strong leadership skills with proven ability to motivate, organise, and support diverse teams across multiple sites
• Demonstrated experience running complex multi-site businesses with clear operational direction
• Passion for delivering outstanding client care and creating an environment where staff feel valued
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
• Proactive, positive approach aligned with practice values and mission
• Ability to think strategically while managing day-to-day operational challenges

Benefits

• 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays and birthday leave
• Extensive free online Linnaeus CPD program
• Career progression opportunities within the Linnaeus group
• Staff discount schemes
• Life assurance
• Enhanced sickness pay
• Enhanced equal family leave
• E-car salary sacrifice scheme
• Employer contribution pension scheme
• Comprehensive wellness program including: employee assistance program, eyecare voucher scheme, free annual flu jab, and cycle-to-work scheme
• Recruitment referral reward scheme

About the Practice

Cromwell Veterinary Group operates as a busy 24-hour first opinion small animal hospital with five branch surgeries. The tier 3 hospital is equipped with excellent facilities and hosts the group’s dedicated out-of-hours service. The practice is committed to delivering the highest standards in veterinary medicine while prioritising staff wellbeing and work-life balance.

Cromwell Veterinary Group is part of Linnaeus and Mars Veterinary Health, the largest family-owned veterinary company in the world. With over 6,000 associates, Linnaeus operates a network of primary care and referral practices across the UK and Ireland. The group is driven by a clear purpose: to create a better world for pets, which begins with creating a better world for its people. Associates benefit from access to specialist networks, worldwide development opportunities, and a comprehensive wellbeing package prioritising physical and mental health.