We’re working with a modern small animal veterinary practice in Portsmouth, Hampshire, that is seeking a Head Veterinarian to lead a dedicated clinical team in a progressive and well-equipped hospital environment. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced veterinary surgeon looking to combine hands-on clinical work with leadership, mentoring, and strategic development responsibilities.
About the Opportunity
This leadership position offers the chance to guide clinical standards, support team development, and help shape the future direction of a growing companion animal practice. The successful candidate will play a key role within the surgery management team while continuing to deliver high-quality veterinary care.
The practice is focused on:
* Gold-standard, evidence-based veterinary medicine
* Continuous clinical improvement and team development
* Collaborative leadership and mentorship
* Exceptional patient and client care
* Building a positive and supportive workplace culture
This role is ideal for a veterinarian who enjoys leading teams, mentoring colleagues, and driving clinical excellence.
Clinical Environment & Facilities
The hospital operates from a purpose-built, modern veterinary facility equipped with advanced technology and designed to support efficient workflows and high clinical standards.
Key features include:
* Spacious, modern practice environment
* Advanced diagnostic and surgical equipment
* Strong focus on clinical development and continuing education
* Team members pursuing advanced certifications and clinical interests
* Collaborative and supportive team culture
* Commitment to exceptional patient care day and night
The practice supports ongoing professional growth and encourages clinicians to develop specialist interests and leadership skills.
Schedule
* Full-time permanent position
* 39-hour work week
* 4-day working schedule
* 1 in 4 weekend rotation
The schedule is designed to support work-life balance while maintaining continuity of patient care and leadership presence.
Location – Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Located in Portsmouth on the south coast of England, the area offers a mix of coastal living, city amenities, and strong transport connections.
Key regional highlights include:
* Coastal lifestyle with waterfront attractions and beaches
* Historic naval city with museums, shopping, and entertainment
* Easy access to the South Downs National Park
* Strong dining, arts, and cultural scene
* Convenient rail and road links to London and surrounding regions
* Family-friendly communities and outdoor recreation opportunities
Portsmouth offers an appealing balance of professional opportunity and quality of life.
Ideal Candidate Profile
This role is suited for veterinarians who:
* Have strong clinical experience in small animal medicine and surgery
* Enjoy leadership, mentoring, and team development
* Are passionate about evidence-based veterinary care
* Thrive in collaborative clinical environments
* Communicate effectively with colleagues and clients
* Are motivated to help shape and grow clinical services
Compensation & Benefits
Salary
* Starting salary from £75,000+, depending on experience and qualifications
Benefits Include
* Quarterly recognition payments
* Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
* Income protection support
* Electric car scheme
* Employee discounts and benefits platform
* Health and wellbeing support programs
* Funded professional memberships
* Veterinary treatment discounts
* Continuing Professional Development (CPD) allowance
* 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
* Internal leadership development and training opportunities
About the group
This practice is part of one of the UK’s largest independent family-owned veterinary groups, with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality companion animal care across local communities. The organisation continues to invest in modern facilities, advanced equipment, and professional development opportunities for veterinary teams throughout the UK.
Qualifications
* MRCVS-qualified Veterinary Surgeon
* Eligible to practice veterinary medicine in the United Kingdom
* Previous leadership or mentoring experience preferred
* Commitment to high clinical standards and patient care
* Strong communication and team leadership skills
This Head Veterinarian opportunity in Portsmouth offers a combination of clinical leadership, advanced practice standards, and career development within a modern companion animal hospital environment.