AniCura – Group Chief Operating Officer

Group COO placed at Mars Inc. owned Consumer Healthcare brand

Background

AniCura is one of Europe’s leading providers of high-quality veterinary care, with a network spanning multiple countries and a strong reputation for clinical excellence. The business is part of Mars Petcare, the US-headquartered global veterinary and pet care leader. AniCura’s growth has been driven by Mars’ strategic investment in premium veterinary brands across Europe, integrating them into a global portfolio of market-leading healthcare providers.

Mars Petcare mandated Compass Carter Osborne to appoint an exceptional Group Chief Operating Officer to guide AniCura through the next phase of operational integration and growth. The hire was also intended to align AniCura’s executive leadership with the broader portfolio strategy across Mars’ veterinary businesses.

The Brief

Mars sought a COO who could bring significant multi-site operational experience in healthcare or comparable service-led sectors, with the leadership skills to manage a complex, multi-country business. The role required a candidate capable of delivering operational efficiencies, embedding best practice across the group, and enhancing the business’ capacity for future M&A activity.

Why Compass Carter Osborne?

Mars Petcare selected Compass Carter Osborne on the back of prior successful mandates within its global portfolio. The firm’s proven ability to deliver senior leadership appointments across US-owned healthcare platforms, and its understanding of investor priorities in scaling healthcare service businesses, ensured complete alignment with the requirements of the search. 

Search Process & Methodology

The search encompassed both veterinary and wider healthcare executives, alongside operational leaders from other high-growth, consumer-facing service sectors. Candidates were evaluated on their ability to operate at scale across international markets, manage clinical and non-clinical teams, and deliver value creation in a private portfolio context.

Over 40 candidates were identified and screened, with the strongest meeting Mars’ stringent criteria for operational leadership, cultural fit, and strategic capability.

Outcome

The appointed Group COO brought extensive international operational leadership experience, a proven track record in scaling service businesses, and the strategic acumen to work effectively with Mars Petcare’s senior leadership in the US. The appointment strengthened AniCura’s operational platform and contributed to continued growth across Europe.