Overview
This lovely practice in St Helen’s seeks an experienced and driven Lead Veterinary Surgeon ready to take the next step in their career and guide a well-loved, community-focused practice into its next chapter. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a clinic with deep local roots and exciting potential, supported by regional leadership.
The practice is housed in a converted high street property with a loyal client base that values continuity and personal care. With one consult room and a small theatre, it’s compact but well-equipped with essential diagnostic tools. The setting offers a blank canvas for someone with a clear clinical vision and the ambition to lead. There’s scope for development and growth, making this an ideal role for someone who wants to make a lasting impact.
Role details
This is a full-time role, working 40 hours across four or five days on a condensed week, though part-time hours may be considered for the right candidate. Weekend cover is minimal, with just 1 in 6 weekends at the 24 hour hospital close by. You’ll be supported by a dedicated team including a Head Nurse, Client Care Assistant and Practice Manager, and will have access to a nearby 24-hour hospital for collaboration and complex case support.
Responsibilities and requirements
* Lead a small animal practice with a focus on patient care and client relationships.
* Provide clinical leadership and support to the team; nurture and develop the nursing and support staff.
* Possess at least five years of UK small animal experience, strong general practice skills, and confidence in sole-charge work.
* Demonstrate excellent communication abilities and leadership to build lasting relationships with clients.
* A PgCert in soft tissue or orthopaedics would be a bonus.
* Take ownership of the relaunch and contribute to the practice’s growth and long-term plans.
What we offer
* Clinical leadership, development pathways, and a collaborative culture with a healthy work-life balance.
* Benefits including private medical insurance and health cash (dental, physio, optical), 24/7 private GP access, life assurance at three times salary, and 24-hour counselling support.
* Annual leave starts at five weeks plus bank holidays, rising to six weeks with service, plus an additional paid “Day for You”.
* CPD support with £1,500 annual allowance and three days’ paid leave, plus internal CPD and access to Clinical Communities.
* Funded certificate opportunities, VDS, RCVS and BVA fees, sabbatical options based on service, and perks such as an interest-free season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, and visa sponsorship/relocation support.
How to apply
To learn more about this opportunity or apply, please contact Louise at louise@brightleaf.co.uk or call 01422 433900. We assist talented Small Animal Veterinary Surgeons and nurses in finding ideal roles.
Bright Leaf Recruitment has been placing Small Animal Veterinary Surgeons and nurses in the UK, Dubai, and Australia since 2010. For more opportunities, visit www.brightleaf.co.uk and sign up for email alerts.
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