Lead Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

This is your chance to step into clinical leadership at a thriving small animal practice in Derby. You’ll lead and mentor a close-knit team of vets and nurses, oversee complex cases, and drive clinical excellence through audits, protocols, and evidence-based practice. Working closely with the Practice Director, you’ll champion service development and help shape the future of this growing practice.

The role offers genuine flexibility: work either a 38-hour four-day week or a standard 40-hour five-day week—whatever suits your life best. You’ll also work one in three Saturday mornings (9:00am–12:00pm) with time off in lieu, ensuring a manageable schedule that respects your wellbeing.

Derby itself is perfectly positioned: less than 10 minutes from the city centre, a half-hour walk from the train station (direct trains to London), and a short drive from the stunning Peak District. The practice sits within easy reach of excellent amenities and transport links including the M1.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and inspire the clinical team of one Veterinary Surgeon, three Registered Veterinary Nurses, and one Student Veterinary Nurse
• Take clinical oversight of complex cases and provide second opinions to ensure highest standards of patient care
• Maintain robust clinical governance and ensure full RCVS compliance and IVC Evidensia standards
• Develop and implement clinical protocols, audits, and evidence-based best practice initiatives
• Support career development and CPD for all team members, fostering a culture of learning and progression
• Collaborate with the Practice Director on service development and practice improvements
• Cultivate a positive, engaged team culture based on collaboration and mutual support

Requirements

• RCVS registered Veterinary Surgeon with strong foundation in small animal medicine and surgery
• Experienced Senior Vet or established Lead Vet ready for the next challenge
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop team members
• Commitment to clinical excellence and evidence-based practice
• Strong communicator with collaborative leadership style

Benefits

• Salary & Relocation: Up to £80,000 (inclusive of bonuses) plus relocation allowance up to £5,000
• Time Off: 6.6 weeks annual leave (including bank holidays) plus additional holiday on your birthday
• Flexible Working: Choose 38-hour four-day week or 40-hour five-day week; Saturday mornings worked on 1:3 rota with time off in lieu
• Development: £1,250 CPD allowance with 40 hours paid CPD leave per annum (pro rata); access to IVC Evidensia Academy; certificate support; research funding available; Vetlexicon online access
• Health & Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance; 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme; enhanced maternity/paternity/adoption/shared parental and surrogacy pay; wellbeing initiatives
• Professional Support: BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees covered
• Pension: Company pension scheme with employer contribution
• Additional Perks: £1,250 per annum via Care Fund to spend as you wish; Cycle to Work scheme; Green Cars Scheme; voluntary benefits package; discounts with hundreds of retailers; discounted pet treatment at IVC Evidensia practices
• Quality Programmes: Infection Prevention and Control Programme; Quality Improvement Programme

About the Practice

Easipetcare Derby is a spacious, well-equipped small animal practice situated in the heart of Derby. The practice boasts four consultation rooms, separate dog and cat waiting areas, dedicated cattery and kennel facilities, isolation ward, dedicated x-ray and ultrasound room, theatre with prep room, and in-house laboratory. The team currently comprises the Practice Director, one Veterinary Surgeon, three Registered Veterinary Nurses, one Student Veterinary Nurse, one Veterinary Care Assistant, and four Receptionists—a close-knit group known for being supportive, positive, and collaborative.

Part of IVC Evidensia, a leading veterinary group, Easipetcare is actively involved in the local community, working with Street Vet and donating unused pet food to charitable organisations. The practice is a committed Disability Confident Employer and champions Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, and Belonging.