Primary Care Lead Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

Join Easipetcare Derby as Primary Care Lead Veterinary Surgeon, heading into an exciting transformation as the practice rebrands to Dovedale House this July as part of the inspire vet care network. This is a unique opportunity to step into clinical leadership at a pivotal moment, working alongside the newly appointed Director of Practice to shape the future identity, culture, and clinical direction of the team.

You'll lead and mentor a close-knit clinical team comprising one Veterinary Surgeon, three Registered Veterinary Nurses, one Student Veterinary Nurse, and one Veterinary Care Assistant. This full-time position offers flexibility: work either a 38-hour four-day week or a 40-hour five-day week, depending on what suits you best. The role includes one in three Saturday mornings (9:00am to 12:00pm), with time off in lieu provided. This is a supportive, collaborative environment where clinical excellence and team development go hand in hand.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and inspire the clinical team, supporting vets and nurses as they build skills and confidence
• Take oversight of complex cases, provide second opinions, and ensure the highest standards of patient care across the practice
• Promote clinical excellence through audits, protocols, and evidence-based best practice
• Maintain robust clinical governance, ensuring full compliance with RCVS guidance and IVC Evidensia standards
• Work closely with the Director of Practice to support service development, implement improvements, and contribute to the continued growth of the practice
• Cultivate a positive and engaged team culture that values collaboration, learning, and development
• Actively support CPD and career progression, helping every team member reach their full potential
• Manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance in complex situations

Requirements

• Veterinary degree and current RCVS registration
• Significant experience in small animal or mixed animal practice with advanced surgical and medical capability
• Proven experience in mentoring, coaching, and supporting veterinary colleagues
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
• Experience contributing to or leading clinical governance, audits, and quality improvement initiatives
• Ability to manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance in complex situations
• Professionalism, integrity, and commitment to the highest standards of patient and client care

Benefits

• Salary up to £75,000 plus welcome bonus of up to £5,000 and relocation allowance of up to £5,000
• Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles
• Funded learning and development including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres and role-relevant courses
• £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet
• Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
• Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities
• 6.8 weeks' holiday including bank holidays
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption, and surrogacy
• BVA membership, VDS cover and RCVS fees covered
• 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

Easipetcare was established in 2010 and has grown to six locations across Chatham, Dartford, Derby, Kettering, Reading, and Streatham, delivering low-cost, high-quality veterinary care. The practice is part of inspire vet care, the UK and Europe's leading veterinary care group comprising over 900 practices and referral hospitals, united by a shared purpose of happier animals and happier owners.

Derby practice serves over 67,000 pets annually and offers a comprehensive range of services including consultations, vaccinations, neutering, dentistry, minor surgery, x-rays, and ultrasound. The team prides itself on being supportive, positive, and collaborative, with a focus on continuous improvement, care, and community.