Lead Veterinary Surgeon up to 80K

Veterinary Staff; England; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading veterinary practice in St Helens, England is seeking an experienced Lead Veterinary Surgeon to guide a close-knit team and enhance community pet care. The role requires a minimum of five years' experience and strong GP skills. The practice offers competitive compensation, including a bonus scheme and benefits like private medical insurance and CPD funding. Part-time applicants are welcomed.

Benefits

Quarterly bonus potential

5 weeks annual leave

Private medical insurance

Funded CPD opportunities

Life Assurance

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years experience in UK small animal practice.
• Strong leadership and decision-making skills.
• Confident in sole-charge responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Deliver exceptional care to patients during consultations and procedures.
• Build trusted relationships with clients.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire the team.

Skills

Leadership skills

Interpersonal abilities

Clinical decision-making

Strong GP skills

Education

RCVS registration

Job description

About the job Lead Veterinary Surgeon up to 80K

Lead Veterinary Surgeon
Location: St Helens (Newton-le-Willows)
Salary:Up to£80.000(Depending on Experience)
Job Type: Full-time (Part-time considered for the right candidate)

A well-established and close-knit veterinary practice in Newton-le-Willows is seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Veterinary Surgeon to take the helm and shape the future of this much-loved community clinic.

This role is perfect for a vet with at least five years of UK small animal experience, who is confident in sole-charge work, has strong GP skills, and a genuine passion for both clinical excellence and team development. Soft tissue or orthopaedic PgCerts are a welcome bonus, though not essential.

The Lead Vet will work closely with a dedicated team including a Head Nurse, Client Care Assistant, and Practice Manager, while also benefiting from collaboration with neighbouring practices and access to a 24-hour hospital for more complex cases.

Key Responsibilities:

Deliver exceptional care to patients during consultations and procedures.

Build trusted relationships with clients, offering clear communication and professional support.

Uphold clinical and regulatory standards across the practice.

Work with the Practice Manager to drive performance and efficiency.

Lead, mentor and inspire the team, fostering a progressive and supportive environment.

Champion clinical excellence and share best practices across the network.

Take clinical ownership and accountability, supporting the wider business goals.

Candidate Requirements:

RCVS-registered Veterinary Surgeon.

Minimum 5 years experience in UK small animal practice.

Strong leadership and decision-making skills.

Confident in sole-charge responsibilities.

Demonstrated passion for patient care and team development.

Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.

Whats on Offer:

Salary: Up to£80.000 (depending on experience).

• Quarterly Lead Vet Contribution Scheme potential to earn up to 20% bonus.
• 5 weeks annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing to 6 weeks with service).

Additional Day for You a paid days leave for personal use.

Private medical insurance from day one.

Funded CPD (£1,500 + 3 paid days) and certificate opportunities.

Sabbatical after length of service.

RCVS, VDS, and BVA fees covered.

Life Assurance (3x salary).

Cycle to Work scheme and Season Ticket Loan.

Discounts on veterinary services and products.

Visa sponsorship and relocation support available.

Working Hours:

40 hours per week over 4 or 5 days (flexible).

1 in 6 weekends at a nearby practice.

Part-time applicants also welcome.

This is a standout opportunity for a vet who wants to step into leadership, shape a practice with untapped potential, and enjoy the autonomy to make a real and lasting impact while being supported by a wider regional team and clinical community. Send your CV to [e-mail]