Primary Care Practice Manager

Primary Care Practice Manager - The Lost Dogs Home Vet Hospital

About us:

At The Lost Dogs’ Home, we are a foundation in Victoria's animal welfare landscape, celebrated for our compassionate care of around 18,000 lost and abandoned dogs and cats every year. Beyond caring for animals, we are dedicated to providing diverse services such as veterinary health, behaviour, advocacy and community education programs, all aimed at giving animals the best chance of a happy and healthy life. Our mission is upheld by passionate individuals who embody a profound affinity for animals, community, and advocacy.

About the role:

The Primary Care Practice Manager plays a pivotal leadership role in ensuring our Primary Care Veterinary Clinic continues to thrive as a reputable and financially sustainable service for the community. This is an exciting opportunity to combine strong operational and people leadership with a passion for animal welfare in a dynamic and purpose-driven environment.

You’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of the clinic, ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care, excellent client service, and efficient workflows across all areas of practice. Partnering closely with the Director of Veterinary Services and the Primary Care Lead Vet, you’ll lead and inspire a team of veterinarians, nurses, and client care staff to achieve exceptional clinical and business outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

- Managing daily clinic operations to ensure effective service delivery and patient care.

- Driving financial performance, cost management, and operational efficiency.

- Leading and developing a multidisciplinary team through coaching, mentoring, and performance management.

- Ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, standards, and safety requirements.

- Overseeing stock control, procurement, and supplier relationships.

- Supporting marketing and community engagement initiatives to enhance the clinic’s reputation.

About you

You’re a confident and compassionate leader who thrives in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment. You bring a balance of operational know-how and genuine care for people and animals. With a passion for teamwork, communication, and continuous improvement, you inspire those around you to deliver exceptional outcomes for clients, patients, and colleagues alike.

Our ideal candidate will bring

- Previous management or leadership experience in a veterinary or healthcare setting.

- Proven ability to lead teams and foster a positive, high‑performing culture.

- Strong financial and business acumen, with experience managing budgets and resources.

- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem‑solving skills.

- Sound understanding of clinical operations and compliance frameworks.

- Relevant tertiary qualification in business, management, or a related field (Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing highly regarded).

About our culture:

At The Lost Dogs’ Home, we cultivate an inclusive work environment that celebrates diversity. Our team enjoys a vibrant culture that fosters meaningful connections, both professionally and socially. Led by our dedicated social committee, we organise a wide range of engaging activities such as Paint and Sip Nights, Bowling, Trivia, and regular after‑work gatherings. These events create opportunities for our team to relax, bond, and forge lasting friendships. We take pride in our diverse team where every individual is encouraged to be their authentic self, regardless of their role within the organisation.

What we can offer:

- A unique and rewarding career in animal welfare, where you can make a real difference in the lives of shelter animals.

- Fantastic career development opportunities, including financial assistance for approved studies.

- A supportive and passionate team, dedicated to developing your skills in animal welfare.

- Discounts at our Vet Hospital to support your own pet’s health.

- Access to our Employee Assistance Program and onsite counselling service for your wellbeing.

- Opportunities to join our Foster Care Program and help care for animals in need.

- A truly unique work environment—surrounded by animals every day

If you have the skills, experience, and enthusiasm to be successful in this role, please click on the “Apply” button, ensuring you have attached your cover letter and current resume in Word or PDF format. If you have any further questions or queries regarding the role, please email recruitment@dogshome.com.

Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received, so we encourage you to apply early as the role may close if a suitable candidate is found. Don’t miss out—apply today

The successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete background screening checks.

The Lost Dogs’ Home is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Only candidates with the right to work in Australia may apply for this position.

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