Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Forest Lodge Veterinary Practice Ltd; New Milton; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A veterinary practice in New Milton is seeking a dedicated Lead Veterinary Surgeon to oversee clinical standards, manage complex cases, and support the development of the veterinary team. This role offers full clinical autonomy, a generous CPD budget, and a favorable work-life balance in a beautiful location. Ideal candidates will have strong clinical experience and a collaborative approach.

Benefits

6.6 weeks' holiday including bank holidays

Private medical insurance

£1,250 CPD allowance

24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Experience managing complex clinical cases.
• Ability to mentor and support veterinary team members.
• A focus on clinical excellence and improvement.

Responsibilities

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

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Qualifications

• 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

Facilities

• 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

Schedule & Flexibility

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

Benefits at a Glance

• 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
• £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

We are 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.

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

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