Senior Clinical Director / Clinical Director

About the Role

This is a full-time clinical leadership opportunity across two sites: a newly purpose-built practice in Bishop Auckland and a beautifully situated location in the historic market town of Barnard Castle. You'll provide strong clinical and people leadership, overseeing complex cases while mentoring and developing a talented, multi-skilled team.

The role suits either a Clinical Director looking to progress to Senior Clinical Director level, or an experienced senior vet taking their first step into clinical leadership. You'll work alongside CertAVP and PgCert VPS holders, advanced RVNs specialising in anaesthesia, surgery and behaviour, and a supportive reception and PCA team. Visiting advanced practitioners in surgery and imaging mean you can keep more complex cases in-house, and strong links with local referral centres support case follow-up and learning.

At CVS, clinical interests and genuine career development are supported at every stage. You'll have access to market-leading learning, on-the-job training, and collaboration with skilled colleagues across the corporate network.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide clinical oversight and decision-making across both Bishop Auckland and Barnard Castle sites
• Set clear clinical standards and shape the clinical direction of the practice
• Lead, mentor and coach the clinical team, building capability and a high-performing culture
• Support team wellbeing and create an inclusive environment where colleagues feel empowered to grow
• Lead with professionalism, compassion and integrity in all client and patient interactions
• Embody CVS's I CARE leadership values: Inclusivity, Collaboration, Accountability, Role Modelling, and Empathy

Requirements

• Proven clinical expertise and confident decision-making in complex cases
• Demonstrated experience in people leadership, mentorship and team development
• Strong communication and emotional intelligence
• Leadership experience preferred; strong clinical background with leadership potential acceptable for Senior Clinical Director progression
• Passion for delivering exceptional veterinary care and building inclusive, high-performing teams
• RCVS registration as a veterinary surgeon

Benefits

• RCVS and VDS fees paid in full
• Generous CPD allowance including BSAVA library access, 450+ courses, and fully funded postgraduate qualifications (CertAVP, PgCert) with tuition, exams and study leave covered
• Up to 33 days holiday per year with option to buy/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 network and enhanced family leave policies
• Staff pet care discounts: 50% off services, MiPet food and medications
• Full-time: 40 hours per week; part-time hours available upon discussion

About the Practice

Castle Vets comprises two locations in County Durham: a new purpose-built practice in Bishop Auckland and an established practice in Barnard Castle. Both sites operate under CVS Group Plc, one of the UK's largest veterinary corporate groups. The team includes qualified specialists with advanced qualifications in surgery, anaesthesia, imaging and behaviour, supported by dedicated RVNs and experienced receptionists.

CVS is committed to building a forward-thinking workplace where staff wellbeing and progression are prioritised equally with clinical excellence. Central expert teams in HR, recruitment, payroll, IT and finance provide operational support, freeing clinical staff to focus on patient care. The business invests in facilities through a dedicated multi-million-pound improvement fund and foster an inclusive, equitable workplace where diverse perspectives are valued.