Veterinary Ambulance Manager

About the Role

This is a managerial position combining operational leadership, logistical coordination, and staff management at PetMedics, a CVS Vets 24/7 facility in Worsley, Manchester. You'll oversee the safe, timely, and compassionate transportation of sick, injured, and distressed animals while building and leading an ambulance team. The role spans days and nights with a 38.5-hour week across varying shift patterns (6am-6pm and 6pm-6am), offering genuine variety and the chance to shape how a critical service operates.

PetMedics is part of CVS Vets, one of the UK's largest veterinary groups with over 500 practices and 8,000 professionals. You'll be joining a supportive community focused on putting pets first, with access to training, development, and career progression across a substantial network.

Key Responsibilities

• Line manage the ambulance team: handle check-ins, holiday requests, performance management, shift planning, overtime submissions, and arrange cover for absences
• Coordinate drivers daily to ensure efficient coverage and service delivery
• Ensure the highest standards of care for all transported animals and audit services for paperwork completion, animal care, husbandry, and transportation standards
• Organize vehicle maintenance and monitor safety checks, van hygiene, and cleanliness; arrange maintenance of handling equipment and kennelling facilities
• Handle pricing, invoicing, and financial oversight of the ambulance service
• Manage record keeping and maintain open communication with team members and clients
• Conduct weekly and monthly emergency equipment tests including building and emergency light tests
• Review risk assessments, manage risk, and respond positively to operational changes
• Identify service gaps and promote the ambulance service to drive commercial growth

Requirements

• Experience working with animals, ideally in a veterinary or dog handling setting
• Full driving licence with ability to drive a manual vehicle and support a team
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively as a team player
• Excellent communication abilities
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, and ProVet software
• Strong attention to detail in organizational and administrative tasks
• Ability to use tact and discretion in difficult situations
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage stress
• Industry knowledge and understanding of veterinary practice

Benefits

• Salary up to £29,000 depending on experience and skills
• Five weeks' annual leave per annum (pro rata) plus bank holidays
• Staff discount scheme on veterinary bills and care
• Staff discount on Animed Direct (online dispensary for pet medicines, products, and food)
• Employee Assistance Programme for confidential wellbeing support
• Part of a large, supportive veterinary group with training and development opportunities

About the Practice

PetMedics is a CVS Vets 24/7 facility based at Unit A1, Priestley Road, Wardley Business Park, Worsley, Manchester (M28 2LY). As part of CVS Vets, one of the UK's leading veterinary groups, the practice operates within a network of over 500 locations and 8,000 professionals dedicated to animal welfare. CVS Vets is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated and every team member can perform at their best.

The practice operates round-the-clock emergency and critical care services, with a dedicated ambulance service ensuring sick and injured animals reach treatment safely and promptly. Staff benefit from access to training, development pathways, and the support of a large, established organization.