Overview
We love what we do and our team’s passion for improving the lives of animals truly shines through. We typically have music playing in the back and have a close-knit support staff team full of communicative and talented animal lovers. Family-friendliness is at the forefront of what we do and it’s important to us that people enjoy coming to work and like who they work with! We operate 7-days/week, provide weekday evening services (open until 9pm), and our beautiful facility is well-equipped with digital radiology, ultrasound, stables and boarding areas, an in-house lab, and more.
With a population of just a few thousand, Barling is a tight-knit community located on the southeastern outskirts of the Fort Smith metro. Residents are friendly, neighborhoods are extremely safe and peaceful, and the cost of living is lower than the national average and most cities in the state. Barling is the kind of place where strangers lend a helping hand, social circles revolve around church and ballgames, and the local schools teach more traditional values.
Requirements
River Valley Animal Hospital is seeking a people-first, business-savvy Hospital Manager to lead our well-established, 4-doctor practice in Barling, Arkansas. This leadership role is perfect for someone passionate about developing people, driving business growth, and leading HR initiatives in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator and natural leader, experienced in managing teams, nurturing culture, building operational systems, and executing strategy. You'll be a key partner to our medical leadership, working together to support hospital performance, enhance client service, and ensure we continue to be an exceptional workplace. Key Responsibilities: People & Team Leadership Lead and mentor department heads and staff to foster a collaborative, high-performing culture Oversee full-cycle human resources: recruiting, onboarding, training, performance management, and employee engagement Champion workplace culture by promoting open communication, accountability, and staff development Manage scheduling, staffing levels, and labor cost control while maintaining morale and productivity Business & Financial Development Manage the hospital's financial operations, including P&L ownership, budgeting, forecasting, and payroll Use data and KPIs to inform decisions and identify new growth opportunities Lead business development initiatives, such as expanding services, referral partnerships, and client acquisition strategies Work closely with ownership and medical leadership to develop and execute strategic plans Operational & Administrative Oversight Ensure smooth day-to-day operations through efficient systems, workflows, and policy enforcement Maintain regulatory compliance (OSHA, DEA, VMB) and oversee inventory, vendor relationships, and facility management Implement marketing and client engagement programs to support retention and growth Oversee client relations and resolve concerns with a focus on service excellence What We Offer: This is a full-time, salaried position, and schedule flexibility is required based on business needs. Compensation & Benefits: Base Salary: $65,000-$75,000/year (commensurate with experience) Quarterly Bonus Opportunities: Based on hospital performance Hiring Bonus: Up to $2,000 depending on experience and credentials Continuing Education Allowance: Up to $1,000 Health Package: Medical, dental, and vision insurance Life Insurance & Disability Coverage 401(k) Options Paid Time Off per policy and applicable law Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Personal Pet Discounts What We're Looking For: 3+ years of multi-team or departmental management experience required Strong background in HR, staff development, and team leadership Business or healthcare operations experience preferred; veterinary industry experience a plus CVPM or equivalent education/certifications preferred Skilled communicator with a people-first leadership style Confident managing financials, payroll, and performance metrics Proficient with software systems, adaptable to change, and highly organized Able to work independently with minimal supervision in a dynamic environment About River Valley Animal Hospital: River Valley Animal Hospital is proud to provide comprehensive, compassionate veterinary care to pets in Barling, Arkansas and surrounding communities. Our experienced team offers preventive care, diagnostics, surgery, and dentistry tailored to each pet's unique needs. With a focus on lasting relationships and exceptional service, we're committed to the health and happiness of both pets and their people. #LI-CM2 This is a good-faith estimate based on the role's requirements at the time of posting. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The Company offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include medical, dental, and vision benefits, vacation, sick leave, 401(k), and other benefits depending on role and location. A complete description of benefits available for this position will be provided during the hiring process. Where required under applicable law, Company provides eligible employees with paid sick leave, health emergency leave, and other legally mandated benefits programs, all in accordance with the requirements of applicable state and local law depending on the location of the practice you support. Pay Range $65,000 - $75,000 USD Western Veterinary Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Western Veterinary Partners is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in the job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact hr@westernvetpartners.com. Hiring decisions will be based on merit, qualifications and the legitimate needs of the business. Candidate Privacy Notice