Small Animal Vet - Lead Role - Up to £75k

British Veterinary Association; England; On-site; GBP 63,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent veterinary organization in the UK is seeking a Lead Veterinary Surgeon to lead clinical standards and mentor a supportive team. This full-time role offers a competitive salary of up to £75,000 and focuses on high-quality patient care without on-call duties. The successful candidate will work in a collaborative practice across multiple sites and benefit from extensive CPD opportunities and a generous benefits package.

Benefits

5 weeks' holiday plus bank holidays

RCVS and VDS fees paid

Employer pension contributions

Life assurance

Relocation support

Generous staff discounts

Enhanced equal family leave

E-car salary sacrifice scheme

Extensive funded CPD

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of UK veterinary experience required.
• Proven ability to uphold high patient care standards.
• Experience in mentoring and leadership roles.

Responsibilities

• Provide clinical leadership and uphold clinical governance.
• Make decisions on complex veterinary cases.
• Mentor colleagues to elevate care standards.

Skills

Leadership in clinical standards

Mentorship

Surgery skills

Consultation

Governance

Education

UK veterinary experience (minimum 3 years)

Job description

Key Details:

• Working Days: 4 days per week with 1 in 3 Sat AM
• Hours: 40 hours per week with protected admin time
• Duties: Leadership of clinical standards, mentorship, consultations, surgery, and governance
• Salary: They are offering a competitive salary of up to £75,000 p/a, reflective of skills and experience

About the Role:

• The client is seeking a Lead Veterinary Surgeon with at least 3 years' UK experience to provide clinical leadership
• This branch-based role will suit a confident clinician who will uphold high standards of patient care and client service while supporting the development of a cohesive, positive team.
• The Lead Veterinary Surgeon will work alongside the Clinical Director on clinical governance, rota planning, team wellbeing, and operational decisions. Responsibilities include decision-making on complex cases, effective interpretation of diagnostics, and mentoring colleagues to elevate standards of care.
• The position offers a varied caseload from routine procedures to more complex work, with protected admin time and flexibility to support work-life balance.
• The role can be based across any of their 5 sites to suit individual preferences and includes the opportunity to contribute to the opening of a purpose-built hospital in Melton in 2026.
• No OOH or on-call

About the Package:

• 5 weeks’ holiday plus bank holidays and birthday leave, RCVS and VDS fees paid, employer pension contributions, life assurance, relocation support, generous staff discounts, enhanced equal family leave, an e-car salary sacrifice scheme, and extensive internal and funded external CPD with leadership training. VISA Sponsorship available.

About the Practice:

The practice is part of a group of 5 RCVS-accredited veterinary practices in Leicester. Facilities include dedicated X-ray and dental suites, two theatres, and separate dog and cat wards and waiting areas. The culture is collaborative, with colleagues holding postgraduate certificates and a commitment to mentorship and shared learning. Administrative support across HR, health and safety, and finance enables clinicians to focus on patient care.

The practice is community-focused, supports local pet charities, and is part of a wider veterinary group that offers access to specialist networks, development opportunities, and a comprehensive wellbeing package. The organisation values inclusivity, professional growth, and a common purpose to deliver high-quality care.

Job Reference No: JN-102025-33272