Lead Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

This is a genuine leadership opportunity for an experienced small animal vet ready to shape the direction of a thriving, well-resourced two-site practice in Hove. We have an exciting opportunity for a Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our team. You’ll combine clinical work with strategic responsibility—mentoring a team of four vets and seven nurses, supporting the practice’s clinical direction, and leading continuous improvement in outcomes and ways of working. The role is primarily based at the main Hove branch with occasional sole-charge support at the second site (just 10 minutes away, typically once weekly). With a manageable 37-hour week across four days (8am–6pm) and Saturday mornings only, plus a 1:4 weekend rota, this position offers genuine work-life balance—no OOH or on-call duties.

The practice sits close to beautiful beaches with excellent transport links to London and Gatwick, and you’ll enjoy on-street parking plus a lovely outdoor area for team breaks. You’ll be working with a high surgical caseload, supported by brand-new equipment including an ultrasound machine, digital and dental X-ray facilities (with separate prep and theatre areas), and in-house laboratory.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide clinical leadership and mentoring to four veterinary colleagues, supporting their professional growth and development
• Work closely with senior practice leadership to shape strategic direction and drive improvements in clinical quality and outcomes
• Manage complex clinical cases and provide professional guidance in challenging situations, including handling clinical complaints
• Deliver high-standard clinical care to a busy surgical caseload
• Take occasional sole-charge responsibility at the second site (approximately weekly)
• Contribute actively to the continued success and development of the clinic

Requirements

• Advanced surgical and medical capability
• Proven experience mentoring, coaching, and supporting veterinary colleagues
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
• Ability to manage clinical complaints professionally and guide colleagues through complex situations
• Full UK veterinary registration

Benefits

• Time Off: 6.6 weeks’ annual holiday including bank holidays, plus your birthday off
• CPD & Development: £1,250 CPD allowance, 40 hours paid CPD time, certificate and advanced learning support, access to Vetlexicon online resources, and world-leading IVC Evidensia Training Centres
• Financial Support: £1,250 annual Care Fund for professional development
• Professional Memberships: BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees covered
• Wellbeing: Private medical insurance, enhanced family-friendly leave and pay, 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Programme
• Colleague Perks: Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies), retail discounts and cashback offers, reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets

About the Practice

Acorn Veterinary Surgery in Hove is part of IVC Evidensia, a global veterinary group operating over 2,500 clinics and hospitals in 20 countries, caring for around 25,000 animals daily. The practice is well-established with a loyal and growing client base in the South East, offering a supportive, collaborative environment.

The team comprises four vets, seven experienced nurses, four receptionists, and a practice manager—all working together to deliver outstanding small animal care. Recent investment in equipment (brand-new ultrasound, digital and dental X-ray facilities, separate prep and theatre areas, and in-house laboratory) reflects the practice’s commitment to clinical excellence and efficiency.