Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

British Veterinary Association; New Milton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading veterinary practice in the United Kingdom is looking for a dedicated Lead Veterinary Surgeon. You will oversee clinical standards, manage complex cases, and support the team through mentoring. This role offers flexibility, work-life balance with a 4-day week option, and benefits including a CPD allowance and private medical insurance. Join us to contribute to a high-performing team and provide excellent patient care.

Benefits

6.6 weeks' holiday including bank holidays

Private medical insurance

£1,250 CPD allowance

Enhanced family-friendly leave

Qualifications

• Must have strong clinical experience and confidence managing complex cases.
• Leadership experience required with ability to mentor and support others.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and clinical excellence is essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex clinical cases and provide expert clinical advice.
• Lead on clinical governance, including protocols, audits, and quality improvement.
• Support the performance and development of the wider veterinary team.
• Maintain high standards of patient care and ensure continuity for clients.

Skills

Strong clinical experience

Leadership experience

Commitment to continuous improvement

Collaborative approach

Job description

We're looking for a dedicated Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our team and work alongside our current part‑time Lead Vet. In this leadership role, you'll oversee the clinical standards of the practice, nurture long‑term client relationships, and enjoy full clinical autonomy to make the right decisions for your patients every day.

As an RCVS‑accredited first opinion practice, we have a well‑established team of 4 FTE vets with a wide range of clinical interests, including dermatology, medicine, imaging, and emergency care. You'll play a key role in supporting and developing the clinical team through mentoring, coaching, and leading on professional standards.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Managing complex clinical cases and providing expert clinical advice
• Leading on clinical governance, including protocols, audits, and quality improvement
• Supporting the performance and development of the wider veterinary team
• Maintaining high standards of patient care and ensuring continuity for clients
• Upholding RCVS accountability both personally and for the broader clinical team

About You

We're looking for someone with:

• Strong clinical experience and confidence managing complex cases
• Leadership experience with the ability to mentor and support others
• A commitment to continuous improvement and clinical excellence
• A collaborative approach and the desire to help shape a high‑performing team

About Us

Our modern, well‑equipped practice is designed to support clinical development and excellent patient care. You'll have the tools and freedom to deliver the standard of care you believe in, with continuity at the heart of what we do.

Our facilities include:

• Digital X‑ray & Dental X‑ray
• Ultrasound
• K‑Laser
• Full in‑house lab with dedicated Lab Tech and direct IDEXX links
• Separate dog and cat areas
• Isolation unit

Flexibility That Fits Your Lifestyle

We understand the importance of balance. Our rota is designed to support fair case distribution and a manageable workload:

• 4‑day week available with a regular day off
• No OOH
• Weekend rota: 1 in 6, Saturdays 9am‑5pm, Sundays off

You Matter to Us - Your Benefits at a Glance

Work‑life Balance & Wellbeing

• 6.6 weeks' holiday including bank holidays – plus your birthday off
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced family‑friendly leave and pay
• 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Programme

Development

• £1,250 CPD allowance + 40 hours paid CPD
• Certificate and advanced learning support & Access to Vetlexicon online resources
• World leading IVC Evidensia Training Centres
• £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet

Professional Memberships

• BVA membership
• VDS cover
• RCVS fees

Colleague Benefits

• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
• Retail discounts and cashback offers
• Reduced‑cost veterinary care for your own pets

Apply today or get in touch for an informal, confidential chat.

Closing Date: 15/12/2025