Portchester Vets | Fareham, Hampshire
Salary up to £80,000 DOE, welcome bonus up to £5,000 and relocation allowance up to £5,000.
Portchester Vets is a trusted local veterinary practice with a strong community presence. Our aim is to deliver healthier animals and happier owners through comprehensive veterinary care.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our close‑knit team. The caseload is predominantly cats and dogs with occasional rabbits. You will have clinical freedom to work up cases using advanced diagnostic equipment (digital/dental X‑ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, K‑Laser, in‑house IDEXX laboratory) and you will be responsible for guiding the practice’s clinical standards and governance.
Practice Highlights
* Established local practice with over 10 years of community presence
* Balanced mix of consultations and surgery
* Clinical freedom with excellent diagnostic support
* Digital and dental radiography, ultrasound, endoscopy and K‑Laser facilities
* Fully equipped in‑house IDEXX laboratory
* Referral support through local practice links
* Charming converted building with dedicated staff facilities and on‑site parking
* Supportive team including 4 RVNs, 2 SVNs and client‑care colleagues
* Additional locum and specialist support available when required
How You’ll Make a Difference
As Lead Veterinary Surgeon you will be the senior veterinary clinician, responsible for:
* Leading clinical standards, governance and outstanding patient/client care
* Overseeing complex cases and providing primary clinical guidance
* Collaborating with senior leadership to support strategic direction and continuous clinical improvement
Working Pattern
* Full‑time position, 38 hours across four days
* 1 in 3 Saturday mornings from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
* No out‑of‑hours or on‑call commitments
* Part‑time applications also welcome
You Might Be a Great Fit If...
* Veterinary degree and RCVS registration with strong clinical expertise in small or mixed animal practice
* Advanced surgical and medical capability
* Experience mentoring, coaching and supporting veterinary colleagues
* Strong leadership, communication and decision‑making skills
* History of contributing to or leading clinical governance, audits and quality improvement
* Ability to manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance in complex situations
* Professionalism, integrity and a commitment to the highest standards of patient and client care
How We’ll Support You
* Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership and specialist roles
* Funded learning and development, including CPD allowance and access to IVC Academy training venues and courses
* £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet
* Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches and peer networks
* Support to develop clinical interests and expand capabilities
* A collaborative, values‑led culture focused on care, community and continuous improvement
What We Offer Our Team
* 6.6 weeks’ holiday, including bank holidays
* Private medical insurance
* Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy
* BVA membership, VDS cover and RCVS fees
* Cycle-to‑Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
* Retail discounts and cashback offers
* Reduced‑cost veterinary care for your own pets
We are committed to supporting our people through career development, wellbeing initiatives and access to world‑class learning resources. Whether you are just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, inspiring vet care offers the support, opportunity and community to help you grow.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analysing resumes or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgement. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. For more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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