The Head of People & Operations will be the operational heartbeat of our team. This role combines people management with operational leadership to ensure smooth day-to-day functioning, a healthy work culture, and staff wellbeing. You will be a trusted partner to the leadership team, driving our people strategy and ensuring we meet both team and business goals sustainably.
Location: Guernsey
Type: Full-time
About Us
The Vetcare Centres is a leading veterinary practice in Guernsey, passionate about delivering the highest quality of care for pets and their owners. Our growing team of 22 professionals thrives on collaboration, innovation, and a shared mission to create a supportive, high-performing work environment.
Role Overview
The Head of People & Operations will be the operational heartbeat of our team. This role combines people management with operational leadership to ensure smooth day-to-day functioning, a healthy work culture, and staff wellbeing. You will be a trusted partner to the leadership team, driving our people strategy and ensuring we meet both team and business goals sustainably.
Key Responsibilities
1. People Strategy & Wellbeing
- Design and implement staff wellbeing programs, including access to mental health support and burnout prevention strategies.
- Lead initiatives to improve staff engagement, job satisfaction, and retention.
- Act as the go-to person for resolving interpersonal or team issues with empathy and professionalism.
- Manage team surveys, 360 reviews, and feedback mechanisms to foster continuous improvement.
2. Operations & Workflow Optimisation
- Create and maintain team structures, workflows, and operational processes that enhance productivity.
- Identify inefficiencies or bottlenecks in clinic operations and implement improvements.
- Ensure seamless onboarding of new hires, aligning them with team culture and expectations.
3. HR Administration
- Oversee recruitment processes, from job postings to interviews and offers.
- Manage HR policies, contracts, and compliance with employment laws.
- Handle payroll queries, time-off requests, and performance management cycles.
4. Leadership & Performance
- Partner with the leadership team to align people strategy with clinic goals.
- Conduct regular performance reviews, offering actionable feedback and development plans.
- Organise training programs for professional development, including leadership and technical skills.
- Track and ensure team KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) are met without compromising staff wellbeing.
5. Culture & Team Building
- Plan and execute team-building activities and workshops to foster camaraderie.
- Act as a cultural champion, ensuring company values are lived by the team daily.
- Serve as a mentor and confidante to all staff, building trust and open communication.
How Success Will Be Measured
- Staff Retention: Year-over-year improvement in staff retention rates.
- Employee Engagement: Positive trends in employee feedback surveys and 360 reviews.
- Operational Efficiency: Improved workflows, reduced bottlenecks, and smoother day-to-day operations.
- Wellbeing Metrics: Reduced instances of burnout and absenteeism; successful uptake of wellbeing initiatives.
- Team Performance: Achievement of team-level KPIs without compromising employee morale.
- Hiring Success: Time-to-hire metrics and successful onboarding of new team members.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Background: Experience in HR, operations, or team management, preferably in industries with high-performing teams (e.g., finance, healthcare, hospitality).
- Skills:
- Exceptional interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
- Strong organisational and time-management abilities.
- Proven ability to handle HR administration and operational challenges.
- Personality: A natural people person who balances empathy with pragmatism and thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary tailored to your experience.
- Generous benefits package, including CPD (Continuing Professional Development) funding and access to wellbeing programs.
- Private health insurance.
- Monthly gym subsidy of up too £40 per month or £480 per year
- A unique opportunity to shape the future of a growing practice and make a tangible impact on the lives of our team and clients.
- A supportive, community-oriented environment in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.
Get In Touch: Experience life in an idyllic setting, known for its relaxed pace, safety, and exceptional natural beauty. Our community is vibrant, with excellent dining, leisure, and cultural opportunities. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or peaceful retreats, Guernsey has something to offer.
If you are looking for a significant career move and a chance to live in on a beautiful island, we would love to hear from you. Please email your CV and a cover letter to office@vetcarecentres.com.