Head Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

Alexander Vets is seeking an experienced Head Veterinary Surgeon to lead their first-opinion small animal practice in Barrow. Whether this is your first step into veterinary leadership or a fresh challenge, you’ll oversee the day-to-day running of a well-equipped practice while staying clinically involved—consulting, operating, and guiding the team through all aspects of practice life. This is a full-time position working a 4-day week with Saturday mornings only (no overnight out-of-hours requirements), striking that rare balance between meaningful leadership and genuine downtime.

The practice sits on the edge of the Lake District—stunning scenery, amazing walks, and easy access to local beaches. You’ll work alongside a Practice Manager and Practice Director, supporting an experienced team of vets and nursing staff in a culture built on inclusivity and mutual support.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations and clinical direction of the practice
• Deliver hands-on clinical work including consultations, surgery, and diagnostics
• Provide mentorship and clinical guidance to the practice team (2 vets, 3 RVNs, and student nurse)
• Work collaboratively with the Practice Manager and Practice Director on strategic decisions
• Maintain high standards in preventative healthcare and case continuity, building strong client relationships

Requirements

• MRCVS qualification
• Proven experience as a Head Vet or senior Veterinary Surgeon
• Demonstrable passion for veterinary leadership and team development
• Strong clinical knowledge across small animal medicine and surgery
• Experience in first-opinion practice (preferred but not essential)

Benefits

• Salary & Bonuses: Up to £80,000 DOE, plus relocation allowance up to £5,000 and welcome bonus up to £3,000
• Work-Life Balance: 6.6 weeks annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays), plus additional birthday holiday entitlement
• Professional Development: £1,250 CPD allowance with 40 hours paid CPD leave (pro rata), certificate support, access to IVC Evidensia Academy, Vetlexicon online resource, and research funding opportunities
• Wellbeing Support: Private medical insurance, 24/7 employee assistance programme, enhanced maternity/paternity/adoption and surrogacy pay
• Professional Memberships: BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees covered
• Pension & Extras: Company pension scheme with employer contribution, cycle-to-work scheme, green cars scheme, voluntary benefits, retail discounts, and discounted pet treatment at IVC Evidensia practices
• Care Fund: £1,250 per annum personal care fund allowance

About the Practice

Alexander Vets is a well-equipped, family-friendly first-opinion practice located in Barrow on the edge of the Lake District. The practice boasts modern facilities including laboratory, X-ray, laser, and ultrasound equipment. Part of IVC Evidensia (a leading UK veterinary group), Alexander Vets combines the resources of a larger organisation with the culture and values of an independent practice. The team prioritises preventative health care and case continuity, believing this creates stronger relationships with both clients and their pets.

The practice is staffed by experienced veterinarians, registered veterinary nurses, and a dedicated reception team, creating a friendly, inclusive, and supportive working environment. Staff wellbeing and professional development are central to how the practice operates.