Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

inspiring vet care; Ashford; On-site; GBP 72,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

6.6 weeks holiday

RCVS fees

BVA membership

Cycle to Work

Retail discounts

Job summary

inspiring vet care is seeking an experienced Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our well-equipped Ashford practice. You will lead, mentor, and inspire our clinical team, overseeing complex cases and maintaining the highest standards of patient care.

You will drive clinical governance and support service development in a collaborative environment. With no out-of-hours or on-call commitments, you’ll enjoy a supportive team, access to visiting specialists, and strong development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Lead Veterinary Surgeon responsible for mentoring and guiding the clinical team.
• Oversee complex cases and ensure adherence to audits and protocols.
• Ensure high standards of patient care and governance in line with RCVS and IVC Evidensia.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the team to develop skills and confidence.
• Oversee complex cases and provide second opinions as needed.
• Support CPD and career progression within the practice.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Decision making

Education

Veterinary degree and RCVS registration

Job description

Salary up to £80,000 plus welcome bonus of up to £5000, and up to £5,000 relocation allowance

We are looking for an experienced and passionate Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our supportive and well-equipped practice.

You’ll be joining a talented team of 9 Veterinary Surgeons, 11 RVNs, 1 SVN and an ANA, supported by a dedicated client care team, insurance processor and bookings clerk. Visiting specialists are available in orthopaedics, cardiology and ophthalmology, and three of our vets hold AVP certificates.

Practice Highlights

• Excellent facilities and equipment


• On-site CT scanner


• Laparoscopy, ultrasound and endoscopy facilities


• Visiting specialists in orthopaedics, cardiology and ophthalmology


• Team includes 9 Veterinary Surgeons, 11 RVNs, 1 SVN and an ANA


• Three Veterinary Surgeons hold AVP certificates


• Dedicated client care, insurance and bookings support


• No out-of-hours or on-call commitments

In this role, you will lead, mentor, and inspire our clinical team, supporting vets and nurses as they develop their skills and confidence. You will oversee complex cases, provide second opinions, and maintain the highest standards of patient care, while driving clinical excellence through audits, protocols, and evidence-based best practice.

Strong clinical governance is essential, ensuring full compliance with RCVS guidance and IVC Evidensia standards. You will work closely with the Practice Director to support service development, implement improvements, and contribute to the ongoing growth of the practice. Additionally, you will foster a positive, engaged team culture that encourages learning, development, and collaboration, while supporting CPD and career progression to help the team reach their full potential.

Working Pattern

• 40 hours across 4 days


• One regular day off each week


• No out-of-hours or on-call commitments

You Might Be a Great Fit If...

You are a highly experienced veterinary surgeon with strong clinical expertise and a passion for leadership and clinical excellence. You’ll bring:

• A Veterinary degree and registration with the RCVS with significant experience in small or mixed animal practice, including advanced surgical and medical capability


• Proven experience in mentoring, coaching, and supporting veterinary colleagues


• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills


• Experience contributing to or leading clinical governance, audits, and quality improvement initiatives


• The ability to manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance in complex situations


• Professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to the highest standards of patient and client care

How We’ll Support You

At inspiring vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:

• Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles


• Funded learning and development including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres & role-relevant courses


• £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet


• Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks


• Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities


• A collaborative, values-led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement

What We Offer Our Team

• 6.6 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays


• Private medical insurance


• Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy


• BVA membership, VDS cover & RCVS fees


• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)


• Retail discounts and cashback offers


• Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets

We’re committed to supporting our people through career development opportunities, wellbeing initiatives and access to world-class learning resources.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, inspiring vet care offers the support, opportunity and community to help you grow.

Up to £80,000 DOE