Live Oak Veterinary Specialists is seeking an experienced and driven Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join our executive leadership team as we expand into our new state-of-the-art specialty and emergency hospital in Pooler, Georgia.
This is not a traditional practice manager position. The COO serves as the operational leader of the organization, overseeing all non-clinical business functions while partnering directly with the CEO to drive growth, efficiency, and long-term strategic success.
The ideal candidate is an experienced operations professional with strong financial acumen, leadership skills, and the ability to manage multiple departments in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
Why Join Live Oak Veterinary Specialists?
- Privately owned veterinary specialty hospital
- Executive leadership role with direct impact on organizational growth
- New 11,000-square-foot specialty facility opening in Pooler
- Opportunity to help shape systems, culture, and operational excellence
- Collaborative leadership environment
- Competitive salary and benefits package
What You'll Do
As COO, you will oversee the day-to-day business operations of the hospital, including:
Financial Operations
- Accounts payable and accounts receivable oversight
- Budget development and financial reporting
- Bank reconciliations and cash management
- Payroll oversight and vendor management
- Financial process improvement and accountability
Operations & Facilities Management
- Building maintenance and vendor relationships
- Equipment and biomedical service coordination
- Security, access control, and emergency preparedness programs
- New facility opening project management
- Operational workflow optimization
Technology & Systems
- Practice Information Management System (PIMS) administration
- IT vendor management and cybersecurity oversight
- Business continuity and downtime planning
- Website and technology platform management
Compliance & Accreditation
- OSHA and workplace safety program administration
- DEA and controlled substance administrative compliance
- Accreditation preparation and maintenance (AAHA, VECCS)
- Risk management and policy oversight
Leadership & Strategic Planning
- KPI dashboard development and reporting
- SOP governance and process improvement
- Department leadership and accountability
- Capacity planning and operational forecasting
- Weekly operational leadership meetings
Marketing & Community Outreach
- Referral relationship management
- Community event coordination
- Marketing and brand execution
- Reputation management and client experience initiatives
QualificationsRequired
- Minimum 3 years of operational leadership experience in veterinary medicine, healthcare, or a related industry
- Experience managing financial operations including budgeting, AP/AR, reconciliation, and bookkeeping
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
- Experience managing vendors, contracts, and facilities operations
- Proficiency with practice management software, EMR, ERP, or related systems
- Ability to work full-time onsite in Pooler, Georgia
Preferred
- MBA or graduate-level business education
- Veterinary specialty or emergency hospital experience
- Experience with AAHA or VECCS accreditation
- OSHA compliance experience
- Experience with DEA-regulated programs
- Experience with HRIS systems such as Paylocity
Additional Consideration Given To
- Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM)
- Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)
Compensation & Benefits
- $75,000 - $83,000 annual salary
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- 401(k)
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Continuing Education support
- Employee pet benefits
- Professional development opportunities
About Live Oak Veterinary Specialists
Live Oak Veterinary Specialists is a growing multi-specialty and emergency veterinary hospital serving the greater Savannah region and Southeast Georgia. Our new purpose-built facility in Pooler will expand access to advanced specialty and emergency care while maintaining the compassionate, patient-centered approach that defines our organization.
We are committed to clinical excellence, operational innovation, and building a workplace where talented professionals can grow, lead, and make a meaningful impact.
Live Oak Veterinary Specialists is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity within our team.
Pay: $75,000.00 - $83,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
Work Location: In person
