Lead Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

You'll take on the most senior veterinary position within the practice, leading clinical standards, governance, and the delivery of outstanding patient care across three North Northamptonshire sites in Oundle, Thrapston, and Corby. This full-time role includes a 40-hour week plus one-in-six Saturday mornings (8:30am-12pm at Oundle or Thrapston) and one-in-six Saturday afternoons (8:30am-5pm at Oundle).

The team spans 14.5 FTE vets with mixed expertise including an exotic specialist and certificate holders. You'll work within a practice culture built on collaboration and clinical excellence, supported by regular clinical meetings, access to emerging equipment, and a genuine commitment to continuous improvement. The region itself offers a perfect blend of lifestyle and affordability, with Oundle's Georgian charm, Thrapston's welcoming community, and Corby's growing opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide clinical leadership to the veterinary team and oversee complex cases
• Act as the primary source of clinical guidance and decision-making within the practice
• Lead and mentor veterinary colleagues, supporting their development and clinical growth
• Work with senior practice leadership to support strategic direction and drive continuous improvement in clinical quality
• Ensure excellent client care across all three sites while maintaining high standards of patient outcomes
• Contribute to and lead clinical governance, audits, and quality improvement initiatives
• Manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance in complex situations

Requirements

• Veterinary degree and RCVS registration
• Significant experience in small or mixed animal practice with advanced surgical and medical capability
• Proven experience mentoring, coaching, and supporting veterinary colleagues
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
• Experience contributing to or leading clinical governance and quality improvement initiatives
• Professionalism, integrity, and commitment to highest standards of patient and client care
• Leadership experience is desirable but not essential

Benefits

• Salary up to £70,000 FTE depending on experience
• Welcome bonus up to £5,000
• Relocation allowance up to £5,000
• 6.8 weeks' holiday including bank holidays
• £1,250 annual Care Fund for professional development
• CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres and role-relevant courses
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced family leave and pay for maternity, paternity, adoption, and surrogacy
• BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees covered
• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (subject to eligibility)
• Retail discounts and cashback offers
• Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets
• Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
• Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles

About the Practice

Inspiring Vet Care is the UK's number one vet care provider, trusted with the care of over 2 million animals. The Oundle Veterinary Surgery group operates three sites across North Northamptonshire with a dynamic team of experienced and caring vets committed to regular continuing professional development and staying current with the latest clinical thinking.

The practice insists on high professional standards, maintains membership of multiple veterinary organisations and journals, and holds regular practice meetings to ensure team development. The group is also keen to support younger members of the profession and regularly welcomes work experience and veterinary students. Situated with easy access to Corby, Peterborough, Kettering, and Huntingdon, the practices serve a wide community across nearby towns and villages.