Clinical Director or Practice Director – Ashfield Vets, Annfield Plain, County Durham (Fixed term contract)
We are seeking a Clinical Director or Practice Director to join us on a fixed‑term contract. This key leadership role will drive high‑quality, patient‑centred care while supporting operational performance and continuous service improvement.
Rota
Full time 40 hours a week. Part‑time hours can be discussed.
Location
Annfield Plain, Durham – commutable from Newcastle, Sunderland, Darlington, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Stockton‑on‑Tees, and surrounding areas.
Responsibilities
Clinical Director role:
* Senior Veterinary Surgeon with strong clinical and people leadership.
* Lead on clinical excellence, oversee complex cases, and ensure best practice in line with RCVS and Clinical Governance standards.
* Mentor and support the team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
* Deliver outstanding patient and client care.
Practice Director role:
* Commercially focused and strategic leader responsible for overall operational and financial performance.
* Drive business performance, optimise resources, support sustainable growth.
* Lead and engage teams, champion development, ensure alignment with company values.
* Enhance client and colleague experience.
Qualifications
* Experienced Senior Veterinary Surgeon (for Clinical Director).
* Commercially minded leadership experience with operational and financial oversight (for Practice Director).
* Strong clinical governance knowledge and RCVS standards compliance.
* Excellent interpersonal, mentoring, and team‑building skills.
Leadership Values
* Inclusivity – Valuing diverse perspectives and bringing out the best in everyone.
* Collaboration – Encouraging open communication and addressing challenges early.
* Accountability – Supporting honest conversations through regular feedback.
* Role Modelling – Leading with integrity and consistency.
* Empathy – Supporting wellbeing while driving high performance.
Benefits (pro‑rated for part‑time or fixed term)
* RCVS & VDS fees paid in full.
* Generous CPD allowance, BSAVA library access, >450 courses, fully funded postgraduate qualifications with tuition, exams, and study leave covered.
* Up to 33 days holiday (option to buy/sell).
* CVS Pension Scheme.
* Access to Vet Oracle telemedicine specialists, Advanced Clinical Services Network and Regional Clinical Leads for case support and mentoring.
* Health cash plan, Employee Assistance Programme, Wellbeing Champions, and enhanced family leave policies.
* Staff pet care discounts – 50% off services, MiPet food, and medications.
Contact
Please contact Jim in the recruitment team at jim.mcdowell-massar@cvsvets.com for further details or an informal chat. Applications can be submitted online.
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