Veterinary Practice Operations Leader

Cerro Alto Specialty and Emergency Hospital; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Cerro Alto Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital in California seeks a Practice Manager to oversee all non-clinical hospital operations, supervise department leaders, and drive the hospital’s culture of safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement. The role requires 5+ years in hospital/veterinary operations with strong HR and budgeting skills.

This in-person leadership position reports to the Co-Founders and supports growth, policy implementation, and exceptional client service across the

Qualifications

• Master’s degree and/or professional certification preferred (e.g., SHRM-CP, CVPM).
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in hospital management, healthcare management, or veterinary operations; 24/7 operations experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience leading leaders, managing complex HR functions, and navigating organizational growth and change.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Proficiency with HR systems, hospital software, and Microsoft Excel.
• Working knowledge of labor laws, benefits administration, and employee relations best practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct leadership and oversight to all non-DVM staff and department supervisors.
• Coach, mentor, and evaluate department leads and employees through regular feedback and performance management.
• Ensure efficient hospital workflows, staffing coverage, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Monitor operational performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, communication, and patient flow.
• Lead implementation of operational initiatives, process improvements, and quality improvement projects.
• Foster collaboration and communication across all departments.
• Maintain a visible leadership presence throughout the hospital.
• Partner with the Co-Founders on operational planning and execution.
• Lead recruitment, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and orientation for non-DVM team members.
• Coordinate with the Co-Founders on doctor recruitment and leadership hiring.
• Conduct employee check-ins, probationary evaluations, annual performance reviews, and career development conversations.
• Address employee concerns promptly and professionally.
• Develop and oversee employee coaching, corrective action, and Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs).
• Ensure consistent enforcement of hospital policies, procedures, and employee expectations.
• Support employee engagement, retention, and leadership development initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

HR Management

Hiring

Performance Management

Communication

Budgeting

Compliance

Education

Master's degree

SHRM-CP or CVPM

Tools

HR software

Microsoft Excel

Hospital software

Job description

Cerro Alto Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital in California seeks a Practice Manager to oversee all non-clinical hospital operations, supervise department leaders, and drive the hospital’s culture of safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement. The role requires 5+ years in hospital/veterinary operations with strong HR and budgeting skills.

This in-person leadership position reports to the Co-Founders and supports growth, policy implementation, and exceptional client service across the