Job Description
Veterinary Surgeon – Independent Practice
Salary up to £65,000 | 4-day week | Certificate support | Accommodation available
GVC are assisting a proudly independent small animal practice located on the outskirts of London, offering excellent transport links into the city while avoiding the daily London grind. This is a rare opportunity to join a genuinely supportive, well-equipped clinic that values clinical freedom, quality care, and work–life balance.
With easy access into London and the flexibility to adjust start times to miss rush hour, this role suits a Veterinary Surgeon who wants the best of both worlds — strong clinical exposure without the pressure of corporate targets.
The Role
* Full-time 4-day working week
* 1 in 4 Saturday mornings, no Sundays
* No OOH – covered by a local external hospital
* Typically 1–2 dedicated operating days per week, rota planned around your interests
* Mix of consulting, medicine, and surgery
* Surgery days usually 8:30am–7pm with proper lunch breaks and regular downtime
* Flexibility with hours where possible
The practice operates across two sites:
* One branch focused primarily on consulting
* A main site handling both medicine and surgical cases
About You
* RCVS registered Veterinary Surgeon
* Around 3+ years’ UK experience
* A keen interest in surgery would be beneficial (though not essential)
* Comfortable working as part of a close-knit, collaborative team
* Looking for autonomy, progression, and long-term stability in an independent setting
Facilities & Clinical Support
* Two fully equipped theatres
* High-end diagnostics including ultrasound, imaging equipment, and dental suite
* Visiting orthopaedic surgeon 1–2 days per week
* Strong, loyal, and largely insured client base
* No sales pressure — clinical decisions are always led by you and the client
The owner is highly supportive but hands-off clinically, allowing you full autonomy to practise the way you feel is best.
The Team
* 2 full-time Vets, 1 part-time Vet
* Locum support currently in place during recruitment
* 5 experienced RVNs
* 3 support staff, including a Practice Manager with 25 years at the clinic
* A genuinely warm, stable, and supportive culture
Development & Progression
* Certificate support available after 6 months (e.g. surgery or imaging)
* Clear clinical progression pathway for a Vet interested in moving toward Senior / Lead / Head Vet level as the owner gradually reduces their hours
Salary & Benefits
* Salary up to £65,000 (DOE)
* Accommodation available if relocating – newly refurbished on-site flat
* 4-day week with rota flexibility
* CPD and certificate support
* Independent ethos — no corporatisation, no heavy KPIs
* 6.6 Weeks Annual leave + your birthday off!
Interview Process
* Single-stage, on-site interview
* Opportunity to meet the team and see the culture first-hand
Apply now or contact me for more detailsstephanie.hellier@gvcvets.com01392 793069