Lead Veterinary Surgeon

Linnaeus Group; Hilcote; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading veterinary practice in Hilcote, England, is seeking a Lead Veterinarian to provide clinical leadership and support a dedicated veterinary team. This role offers the opportunity to guide clinical governance and enhance care standards in a collaborative environment. The ideal candidate will have a veterinary qualification along with leadership experience and a commitment to professional growth. Benefits include relocation support, paid fees, and extensive CPD opportunities.

Benefits

5-weeks holiday plus bank holidays and birthday leave

Relocation support

Employer contribution pension scheme

Extensive internal and external CPD

Qualifications

• Veterinary qualification and registration are mandatory.
• Experience in clinical leadership is required.
• Commitment to continuous professional development is essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide clinical leadership and support the veterinary team.
• Drive clinical governance and ensure compliance with protocols.
• Build a positive team culture and lead with empathy.

Skills

Strong clinical decision-making ability

Excellent communication skills

Teamwork abilities

Education

Veterinary qualification and RCVS or VDS registration

Job description

Lead Veterinarian – Overview

We're seeking a Lead Veterinarian to help maintain clinical excellence, support team growth, and contribute to the success of our practice. If you're an experienced vet or ready to take the next step into leadership, this is the perfect opportunity to grow, lead, and thrive.

Why Join Us

• An opportunity to support, guide our clinical team and become part of an integral, collaborative and forward‑thinking practice.
• Lead with purpose in a practice that empowers you to make meaningful decisions, mentor others, and elevate standards of care.
• Varied caseload, everything from routine to more complex cases, giving you the chance to continually develop and grow.
• Work alongside a dedicated, friendly team with a range of experience, including postgraduate certificates, who value collaboration and mentorship.
• You will have access to leadership training, CPD support and the freedom to explore your clinical interest.
• Well‑equipped hospital with all the latest tools and a highly skilled nursing team to help deliver the best care possible.

What We're Looking For – Responsibilities

• Provide clinical leadership and support the veterinary team, promoting high standards of care and client services.
• Help drive clinical governance and ensure compliance with practice protocols.
• Collaborate with the Clinical Director on rota planning, team wellbeing, and operational movements.
• Build a positive team culture and lead with empathy and clarity.
• Interpret diagnostics and make informed clinical decisions.
• Remain calm under pressure and thrive in a fast‑paced environment.

Qualifications

• Veterinary qualification and RCVS or VDS registration.
• Clinical leadership experience.
• Strong clinical decision‑making ability.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to continuous professional development.

Team & Culture

Our team consists of 8 vets, 10 RVNs, 1 SVN, 1 PCA and 9 client care associates across 2 branches. We have digital x‑ray, dental x‑ray, an in‑house laboratory suite, and recently upgraded ultrasound and endoscopy equipment.

Benefits

• 5‑weeks holiday plus bank holidays and birthday leave.
• Relocation support.
• RCVS and VDS fees paid.
• Employer contribution pension scheme.
• Life assurance.
• E‑car salary sacrifice scheme.
• Enhanced equal family leave.
• Extensive internal and external CPD.

About Victoria Vets

Victoria Vets is part of Linnaeus and Mars Veterinary Health, the largest family‑owned veterinary company in the world. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture and prioritise employee well‑being, professional development and a better world for pets.