Clinical Director or Practice Director

About the Role

This fixed-term leadership position offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future of Ashfield Vets, a recently relocated practice ideally positioned between historic Durham City and vibrant Newcastle. You'll join a team of two vets, four RVNs, a Practice Care Assistant, student nurse, and reception team in a purpose-built facility designed for high-quality patient care.

You have the flexibility to shape your leadership journey: step into the Clinical Director role to lead clinical excellence, mentor your team, and ensure best practice aligned with RCVS standards; or take on the Practice Director position to drive operational and financial performance, optimise resources, and champion sustainable business growth. Full-time 40 hours per week, with part-time options available on request.

Key Responsibilities

• Clinical Director track: Lead clinical excellence and complex case management, mentor and develop the veterinary and nursing team, foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensure alignment with RCVS and Clinical Governance standards, and champion outstanding patient and client care
• Practice Director track: Drive operational and financial performance of the practice, work strategically with the Regional Director, optimise resource allocation, lead and engage teams across all departments, champion colleague development, and ensure alignment with company values
• Either path: Embody the practice's I CARE leadership values (Inclusivity, Collaboration, Accountability, Role Modelling, Empathy) and lead with integrity
• Contribute to a friendly, caring, well-organised environment where teamwork is central and case discussions drive best outcomes

Requirements

• For Clinical Director: Experienced Senior Veterinary Surgeon with strong clinical and people leadership capability
• For Practice Director: Commercially focused and strategic leader with experience in operational and financial management
• Proven track record in leadership and team development
• RCVS registration and good standing
• Commitment to continuous professional development and supporting colleague learning

Benefits

• RCVS and VDS fees paid in full
• Generous CPD allowance, BSAVA library access, 450+ courses available, and fully funded postgraduate qualifications (CertAVP, PgCert) including tuition, exams, and study leave
• Up to 33 days holiday with option to buy or sell additional days
• 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 and Employee Assistance Programme
• Wellbeing Champions, enhanced family leave policies, and monthly line-manager check-ins
• Staff pet care discounts: 50% off services, MiPet food and medications
• Access to Health Shield providing support for physical and mental health

About the Practice

Ashfield Vets is part of CVS Group Plc and operates from a purpose-built facility featuring three consultation rooms, a dedicated nurse/cat consultation room, separate cat and dog waiting areas, an in-house pharmacy, state-of-the-art prep room and theatre, and onsite parking with electric car charging. The practice is commutable from Newcastle, Sunderland, Darlington, Middlesbrough, and across County Durham and surrounding areas.

The practice culture is built on teamwork and continuous improvement. The experienced RVN team are proactive with Schedule 3 duties and enthusiastic about running clinics, including nurse consults, geriatric and weight clinics. CVS provides comprehensive support through central expert teams in HR, recruitment, payroll, IT, finance, and procurement, plus investment in facilities through a dedicated multi-million-pound improvement fund.