Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal
St Marys Veterinary Clinic | Ferndown, Dorset
Salary up to £80,000 DOE and up to £3,000 Relocation Allowance
St Marys Vets is an established, single‑site practice with a strong local reputation and a great GP first‑opinion caseload.
This role offers a balanced mix of consults and surgery, with the opportunity to work up cases in‑house from routine procedures to ECC, while having referral support when needed.
You’ll need to be confident with sole charge and enjoy working with a varied caseload including cats, dogs, rabbits, and the occasional exotic.
The practice is fully equipped with modern facilities including digital and dental X‑ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, and an in‑house lab, and is due to undergo a full refurbishment.
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.
* Monday to Friday 9:00 – 18:30 (1 half day during the week 9:00 – 13:00 to be arranged) 1 in 3 Saturday mornings 8:30 – 12:30
* No OOH or on call
* Open to PT candidates 30+ hours min
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.
* 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
* 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
* 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 & RCVS fees
* Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
* Retail discounts and cashback offers
* Reduced‑cost veterinary care for your own pets
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