Portchester Vets, Fareham, Fareham, South East
Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal
Portchester Vets | Fareham, Hampshire
Salary up to £80,000 DOE, welcome bonus of up to £5,000, and relocation allowance of up to £5,000
The caseload is predominantly cats and dogs, with the occasional rabbit, offering a balanced mix of consultations and surgery. While much of the work is routine, you’ll have the clinical freedom to fully work up cases using excellent diagnostic equipment, including digital and dental X-ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, K-laser and an in‑house IDEXX laboratory. Established links with nearby practices provide referral support when needed, while some sole charge responsibility makes this an ideal role for a vet who thrives on autonomy and sound clinical judgement.
Housed in a charming converted building, the practice has a warm, homely feel and is well equipped with a dedicated lab, X‑ray suite, office space and comfortable staff facilities, alongside convenient on‑site parking. You’ll be supported by a skilled and proactive nursing team, and join a friendly group comprising another vet, four RVNs, two SVNs and a dedicated client care team, with additional locum and specialist support available when required.
How You’ll Make a Difference
As Lead Veterinary Surgeon, you will be the most senior veterinary clinician within the practice, responsible for leading clinical standards, governance, and the delivery of outstanding patient and client care.
You’ll provide clinical leadership to the veterinary team, oversee complex cases, and act as the primary source of clinical guidance and decision‑making within the practice. Working closely with the senior practice leadership team, you’ll support the strategic direction of the practice and drive continuous improvement in clinical quality, outcomes, and ways of working.
* Full‑time position working 38 hours across four days
* 1 in 3 Saturday mornings from 9am to 12pm
* No out‑of‑hours or on‑call commitments
* Part‑time applications also welcome
You Might Be a Great Fit If...
You are a highly experienced veterinary surgeon with strong clinical expertise and a passion for leadership and clinical excellence. You’ll bring:
* A Veterinary degree and registration with the RCVS with significant experience in small or mixed animal practice, with advanced surgical and medical capability
* Proven experience in mentoring, coaching, and supporting veterinary colleagues
* Strong leadership, communication, and decision‑making skills
* Experience contributing to or leading clinical governance, audits, and quality improvement initiatives
* The 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
At inspiring vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:
* 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 centres & role‑relevant 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 your capabilities
* A collaborative, values‑led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement
What We Offer Our Team
* Private medical insurance
* Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy
* BVA membership, VDS cover & 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’re committed to supporting our people through career development opportunities, wellbeing initiatives and access to world‑class learning resources. Whether you’re 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.
At IVC Evidensia we are committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Belonging, we are keen to hear from candidates from all minority and diverse groups. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are keen to hear from candidates with disabilities and long‑term health conditions and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process.
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