Senior Operations Assistant

Senior Operations Assistant

Position Overview

The Senior Operations Assistant plays a pivotal role in the day-to-day operation of Passing Paws Pet Cremations. This position oversees the Crematory and Production In divisions while remaining flexible and available to assist across all operational areas of the business as an all-rounder.

As a working senior, the Senior Operations Assistant will lead by example — taking an active role in the workflow alongside the team, supporting staff development, maintaining efficiency and safety standards, and ensuring that the overall production process meets company expectations of quality, care, and timeliness.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead the Crematory and Production In teams to ensure daily workflows are completed accurately, safely, and on time.
• Oversee the allocation and reallocation of workforce resources throughout the day in response to workload changes, operational demands, and staff availability.
• Maintain consistent communication between divisions to ensure smooth transitions between "Production In" and "Production Out" functions.
• Take ownership of team output, ensuring the highest standard of care, accuracy, and presentation in all processes.

Hands-On Involvement

• Work actively within the Crematory and Production In areas, performing duties alongside team members to maintain workflow and quality.
• Provide on-the-job guidance, mentoring, and practical support to junior and developing staff.
• Step in to assist across other divisions as required (Production Out, Family Care, Admin, etc.) to maintain operational flow and uphold team collaboration.

Planning & Strategy Execution

• Implement and adapt daily production strategies to achieve operational goals and respond to changing priorities.
• Support management with input on process improvements, staff performance, and workflow efficiencies.
• Communicate changes in direction or process clearly to the team, ensuring understanding and compliance.

Maintenance & Resource Support

• Assist with machinery and vehicle maintenance checks, ensuring all equipment is operational and reported promptly when issues arise.
• Oversee stock levels and coordinate with management on ordering and usage to prevent shortages or wastage.
• Maintain accurate records of operational data, logs, and checklists as required (e.g., HACCP, pre-starts, maintenance, etc.).

Team Development & Culture

• Promote a supportive and respectful team environment, encouraging accountability and teamwork.
• Provide training, guidance, and feedback to team members to build confidence and competence.
• Support management in identifying staff development opportunities and performance improvements.

Key Attributes & Skills

• Proven leadership capability within an operational, logistics, or production environment.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise and adjust under pressure.
• Hands-on approach with the ability to balance leadership responsibilities and manual work.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to motivate and guide team members.
• Mechanical aptitude and awareness of equipment and vehicle maintenance requirements.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and compassion in line with the values of Passing Paws.

Reporting Structure

• Reports to: Operations Manager
• Direct Reports: Crematory and Production In team members
• Liaises with: Family Care, Production Out, Logistics, Administration, and Management Teams

Performance Indicators

• Efficiency and accuracy of Crematory and Production In workflows
• Quality and presentation standards maintained across outputs
• Effective team coordination and adaptability to changing strategies
• Positive team morale and engagement
• Equipment and vehicle upkeep compliance
• Timely and effective communication with management