Clinical Lead Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

This is a senior clinical leadership position at a modern, well-equipped small animal practice on the Isle of Man. You’ll be the lead clinician overseeing all clinical operations, setting standards, and guiding a supportive, experienced veterinary team through both routine and complex cases. Working 38 hours per week with participation in the out-of-hours rota, you’ll combine hands-on clinical work with strategic practice development and team mentorship.

The Isle of Man offers a genuinely exceptional quality of life—stunning landscapes, a safe community, vibrant local culture, and excellent leisure opportunities. It’s the perfect setting for a clinician ready to make an impact without the constant pressure of urban practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all clinical aspects of the practice, maintaining the highest standards of patient care and clinical excellence
• Establish and oversee clinical governance, including protocols, audits, and quality improvement initiatives
• Manage complex clinical cases and act as the primary source of clinical guidance and decision-making for the team
• Mentor, coach, and develop the veterinary team, supporting their training and professional progression
• Contribute to operational excellence and continuous improvement across the practice
• Maintain RCVS accountability both individually and as clinical leader within the team
• Work with senior practice leadership to drive strategic direction and clinical outcomes

Requirements

• RCVS registration with significant experience in small animal practice
• Advanced surgical and medical capabilities with a track record of clinical excellence
• Proven experience in mentoring and supporting veterinary colleagues
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
• Experience contributing to or leading clinical governance, audits, and quality improvement work
• Ability to manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance in complex situations
• Commitment to the highest standards of patient and client care, professionalism, and integrity

Benefits

• Leave & Time Off: 7 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays
• Professional Support: £1,250 annual CPD allowance, access to IVC Academy training centres and role-relevant courses, mentorship from regional clinical coaches and peer networks
• Financial & Care: £1,250 annual Care Fund, BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees covered
• Health & Wellbeing: Private medical insurance, enhanced family leave and pay (maternity, paternity, adoption, surrogacy)
• Lifestyle & Perks: Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes, retail discounts and cashback offers, reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets
• Career Development: Clear progression pathways across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles
• Flexibility: Full-time or part-time working considered

About the Practice

Milan Veterinary Clinic is a modern, well-equipped small animal practice based in Douglas, Isle of Man. The clinic provides advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities and handles a varied, interesting caseload covering both medical and surgical challenges. The team is experienced, collaborative, and focused on clinical standards, governance, and continuous improvement.

Milan Vets is part of IVC Evidensia, the UK and Europe’s leading veterinary care group comprising over 900 practices and referral hospitals. IVC Evidensia is committed to supporting staff development, wellbeing, innovation, and career progression across all roles and career stages, with a values-led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement.