Practice Director
Sussex Equine Hospital, Ashington, West Sussex, South East
Discipline: Leadership
Employment Type: Full Time
Salary: Up to £55,000 per annum
Sussex Equine Hospital is looking for an enthusiastic and driven Practice Director to oversee our operational, financial, and client care standards, support our team culture, and uphold our core values of care, innovation, and collaboration.
Who We Are
At Sussex Equine Hospital, we’re dedicated to delivering exceptional veterinary care across a wide range of disciplines. Our core values define our success:
* We Care: Prioritising the well-being of animals and people alike, fostering a respectful workplace.
* We Dare: Leading the way with innovation, creative problem-solving, and adaptability in an evolving field.
* We Share: Committed to transparency, shared knowledge, and fostering a culture of trust and teamwork.
Founded in 1951, Sussex Equine Hospital moved to a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility in Ashington in July 2017. Our purpose-built hospital is equipped to provide the highest standards of equine veterinary care, meeting the needs of both our patients and clients.
Our practice is home to 26 dedicated equine vets, each with expertise across various equine veterinary specialties. They’re supported by a skilled team of nurses, grooms, and administrative staff, all focused on delivering personalized, compassionate care tailored to each client’s needs.
We offer comprehensive ambulatory services across East and West Sussex, as well as Surrey and Hampshire, caring for a range of equine patients, from elite sport and racehorses to children’s ponies. Our referral hospital is equipped with 27 stables, an isolation block, and specialised Repro and Bonescan units, allowing us to excel in medical diagnostics, treatments, and surgeries, both minor and major.
The hospital’s location offers scenic country walks nearby, with the seaside only 20 miles away. We’re conveniently close to Worthing and Brighton, with easy and direct train access to London.
Role Overview
As Practice Director, you will manage the daily operational functions of Sussex Equine Hospital, reporting directly to the Clinical Directors. Your focus will be on providing excellent patient and client care, supporting our team’s professional development, and overseeing financial growth, financial forecasting, and operational excellence. Responsibilities will include HR, financial management, marketing, and maintaining compliance across all practice functions.
Responsibilities
* Leadership: Champion our values, enhance team engagement with clear communication, and ensure equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusion.
* Management: Drive financial performance, maintain compliance, and create efficient rotas.
* HR: Oversee recruitment, ensure fair pay practices, and encourage continuous professional development.
* Financial Management: Manage budgeting, credit control, and expenses.
* Marketing and Business Development: Implement local marketing initiatives and manage social media and client communications.
* Clinical Operations: Align hospital operations with clinical goals and ensure compliance with RCVS standards.
Working Hours
This is a full-time role consisting of 40 hours per week. Shifts are Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:30pm.
What We’re Looking For
* Degree-level education preferred but not essential.
* 5+ years of management experience in a commercial, service-focused environment.
* Strong leadership and people skills.
* Financial acumen and resilience in a results-oriented role.
* Positive, compassionate, and capable of influencing change.
* Operational management experience is desirable.
Why Join Us?
We offer a supportive, growth-focused work environment. In addition to a competitive salary up to £55,000 per annum, you will benefit from:
Benefits
* 6.6 weeks annual leave plus additional time off for your birthday.
* Private medical insurance.
* Enhanced family-friendly policies.
* Cycle to work scheme.
* CPD Allowance.
* Pension scheme.
* Discounted staff pet care.
At IVC Evidensia, we are committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, and Belonging. We welcome candidates from all minority and diverse groups.
Contact Information
Speak to Bethany Baker from our recruitment team who would be happy to help you with any questions you have before applying for this role.
Talent Executive
Bethany Baker
Contact: bethany.baker@ivcevidensia.com
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