Manager, HR People Operations

You were made to save animals, we take care of the rest. Founded in 2006, VetStrategy is Canada’s largest operator of veterinary hospitals and clinics. The company operates over 340 hospitals and clinics across Canada and employs over 5,500, dedicated veterinary professionals. VetStrategy has undergone a tremendous amount of growth and continues to grow at a rapid pace. Our business model is simple; we work with our veterinary partners to acquire ownership in veterinary hospitals, and then help in the management of these practices. This allows the medical team to focus on practicing first-rate medicine, and allows the clinic’s staff, clients, and patients to benefit from experienced business operators and managers.

The Role

Reporting to the Director, People Operations, this position acts as a liaison between our hospital teams and our support office to provide HR partnership and guidance to our people teams within the Ontario and Atlantic regions. Based in Woodbridge, Ontario, this role will partner with our Field Operations Team on all aspects of the people side of the business, including employee engagement and retention, proactive HR strategies, employee relations, health and safety and HR administration.  This role will be a direct leader for our HR People Operations Partner based in Atlantic Canada.

Responsibilities

Field Operations Support:

• Provide employee relations guidance and best practices aligned with our cultural competencies and people philosophy
• Partner with our district operations management team from a people perspective, while providing full-cycle HR support and guidance
• Counsel on the importance of standards and best practices - coaching conversations, code of conduct and respect in the workplace
• Act as a wellness ambassador to ensure our teams are supported with our EAP and wellness programs
• Provide recommendations on how to manage employee challenges, ie. absenteeism, performance management and mental health challenges
• Ensure alignment and consistent execution of HR initiatives/projects across the region
• Build strong relationships within the hospital network to maintain a culture of open and honest dialogue.

HR Leadership & Focus:

• Provide leadership and direction to HR Operations Partner with the region to determine HR focus and initiatives that align with business objectives
• Drive engagement and talent development within region through regular talent mapping meetings, assist in the creation of meaningful development and succession plans
• Participate in regular meetings with operations teams to review key HR priorities, while understanding and delivering on the needs of the region
• Identify people needs and gaps in the region and assist with the creation of HR workshops, processes and training programs
• Deliver training workshops within region: positive employees & teams, people development, performance management, wellness education & awareness
• Coordinate HR administrative needs - letters of confirmation, performance improvement plans, accommodation plans
• Conduct HR onboarding for new Operations Directors & Practice Managers joining the team.

Health and Safety & Compliance

• Ensure H&S in clinics is top of mind and clinics are compliant with their H&S program administration
• Ensure legislative compliance within the region and educate Operations Team & Practice Managers on standards/requirements.

Additional tasks:

• Work closely with multiple stakeholders including operations team, internal HR team and cross-functional peer partners
• Provide support on HR projects and initiatives as needed 
• Other HR-related tasks as assigned.

Background, Experience and Qualifications:

• 5-8 years of HR generalist experience, along with HR experience working in a regional role or multi-unit business operation
• Completion of degree or certificate in HR administration
• CHRP designation or equivalent is an asset
• High level of expertise with employee relations, employment standards, common law decisions and compliance 
• Solid knowledge of employment legislation is a must 
• As this is a field-based role, ability to travel within the region district on a regular basis, including occasional overnight travel
• Proven ability to build relationships with peers, support office stakeholders and field team to positively impact business operations
• Ability to work independently and to manage conflicting priorities.

Do not miss out on this unique opportunity to join a fun and dynamic team! VetStrategy is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. If you require accommodation, please reach out to careers@vetstrategy.com.