OVERVIEW
The Head of Human Resources will serve as a strategic partner to the executive team, overseeing the full spectrum of HR functions across our multi-location emergency veterinary organization. Preference is for a candidate who possesses a deep understanding of the veterinary healthcare workforce; however, candidates with healthcare practice experience are also welcome to apply. This role requires strong leadership skills and a hands-on approach to managing complex HR needs in a fast-paced, emotionally demanding industry.
The company has a hybrid work policy that requires four days per week onsite for this role.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership
- Partner with Executive Leadership to design and implement forward-thinking HR strategies that drive the veterinary group’s long-term goals.
- Provide strategic counsel on workforce planning, succession management, organizational development, and cultural stewardship.
- Champion the hospital’s approach to employee engagement and high-performing team dynamics.
Compliance and Risk Management
- Ensure adherence to all local, state, and federal labor regulations, including OSHA, DEA, and veterinary board rules.
- Oversee licensing and credentialing processes for clinical staff.
- Maintain HR policies and procedures aligned with industry-specific compliance needs.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable employment laws and internal risk protocols, working in partnership with outside counsel when necessary.
Talent & Organizational Development
- Oversee recruitment strategies tailored to veterinarians, vet techs, and administrative personnel designed to attract and retain top-tier talent.
- Lead performance management strategy and execution, including conflict resolution, grievances, and performance concerns.
- Build and implement development frameworks that support continuous learning for clinical and non-clinical staff.
Compensation and Benefits
- Collaborate with Executive Leadership to ensure compensation structures and benefits offerings are market-competitive, equitable, and clearly communicated.
- Conduct regular compensation benchmarking and oversee benefits optimization.
- Build and refine people processes and policies that are clear, scalable, and aligned with organizational values.
HR Operations & Analytics
- Champion technology and system solutions that enhance HR efficiency, reporting, and employee self-service.
- Monitor and report on key metrics, using data to inform decisions and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Serve as the internal voice of the employee experience.
Culture & Employee Relations
- Maintain the company’s culture of a high-trust, inclusive workplace where employees feel supported and engaged with the mission.
- Develop HR protocols for emergency situations (e.g., pandemics, natural disasters, clinic trauma events).
- Provide leadership and staff support during high-stress or emotionally difficult events.
- Promote a proactive approach to wellbeing, recognition, and workplace belonging.
QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
- Bachelor’s degree required; PHR/SPHR or advanced degree preferred.
- 5-8+ years of progressive HR leadership, ideally within the healthcare or veterinary industry.
- Deep knowledge of employment law, compensation strategy, best-in-class HR practices, OSHA, and DEA compliance.
- Deep empathy for veterinary professionals and a passion for improving workplace culture in animal care
- Exceptional interpersonal skills, with high emotional intelligence, discretion, and judgment.
- Strong business acumen and the ability to balance strategic planning with day-to-day execution.
- Comfort navigating ambiguity, shifting priorities, and high expectations in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with HR systems and technology that drive scale and impact.
- Track record of building trusted relationships and delivering results in service-oriented organizations.
ABOUT
The company is a specialty veterinary hospital with 170 employees committed to the highest quality of care for small animals requiring the attention of doctors certified in various specialties, including cardiology, internal medicine, and neurology, as well as emergency medicine. Located in central New Jersey, there is a second similarly sized facility in the development phase.
