Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Forest Lodge Vet Practice Ltd; New Milton; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A veterinary practice in New Milton is seeking a dedicated Lead Veterinary Surgeon to oversee clinical standards and support the veterinary team. This role offers full clinical autonomy, strong CPD support, and a work-life balance with a 4-day week. Ideal candidates will have a strong clinical background, leadership experience, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Benefits

6.6 weeks holiday

Private medical insurance

£1,250 CPD allowance

Cycle to Work scheme

Qualifications

• Experience managing complex clinical cases.
• Ability to mentor and support others.
• Desire to help shape a high-performing team.

Responsibilities

• Managing complex clinical cases and providing expert advice.
• Leading on clinical governance and quality improvement.
• Supporting the performance and development of the veterinary team.
• Maintaining high patient care standards.

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.

About the Role

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

We offer a generous CPD budget and actively encourage certificate study to support your professional growth and future ambitions.

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

We’re also committed to continuous improvement, always looking for ways to expand our services and enhance patient care.

Located in the beautiful New Forest, with excellent access to Bournemouth and Southampton, this is a fantastic opportunity to combine a fulfilling clinical career with an enviable work‑life balance.

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. Up to £65,000 DOE.