Clinical Lead Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

This is a senior clinical leadership opportunity for an experienced small animal veterinary surgeon who wants to make a real difference. You’ll step into the role of Clinical Lead at Milan Veterinary Practice, taking ownership of clinical standards, governance, and the strategic direction of a well-equipped, modern clinic. Working 38 hours per week with participation in the out-of-hours rota, you’ll lead a supportive clinical team across a three-site practice whilst maintaining your own clinical practice with varied and interesting cases.

Based on the beautiful Isle of Man—known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming community—this role offers an exceptional quality of life alongside a genuinely fulfilling clinical challenge. Whether you’re drawn by the outdoor lifestyle, local food scene, or simply a safer place to build your career and family life, the island provides a unique blend of professional opportunity and personal wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all clinical aspects of the practice, ensuring high standards of patient care and clinical outcomes
• Lead clinical governance, developing and maintaining protocols, conducting audits, and driving quality improvement initiatives
• Manage complex clinical cases and act as the primary source of clinical expertise and guidance within the team
• Mentor and develop the veterinary clinical team, supporting ongoing training, progression, and professional development
• Work closely with senior practice leadership to support strategic direction and operational excellence
• Maintain full accountability to the RCVS both individually and as a clinical leader
• Participate in the out-of-hours rota alongside your daytime clinical work

Requirements

• RCVS-registered veterinary surgeon with significant experience in small animal practice
• Advanced surgical and medical capability with a proven clinical track record
• Demonstrated 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 professionally and provide guidance in complex situations
• Commitment to the highest standards of patient and client care, with integrity and professionalism

Benefits

• Salary: Up to £75,000 depending on experience
• Annual leave: 7 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays
• Professional development: £1,250 annual Care Fund for CPD, access to IVC Academy training centres, mentorship, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
• Health & wellbeing: Private medical insurance, enhanced family leave and pay (maternity, paternity, adoption, surrogacy)
• Professional memberships: BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees covered
• Lifestyle benefits: Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (where eligible), retail discounts and cashback offers
• Pet care: Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets
• Flexible options: Full-time or part-time arrangements considered

About the Practice

Milan Veterinary Practice has been serving the Isle of Man since 2000. Operating three well-equipped clinics across Douglas, Castletown, and Peel, the practice is moderately sized with modern facilities, advanced diagnostic and treatment equipment, and ample parking. The team describes itself as “one big happy family,” built on a commitment to continuous training, advanced techniques, and genuine care for both patients and clients.

As part of IVC Evidensia—the UK and Europe’s leading veterinary care group comprising over 900 practices and referral hospitals—Milan Vets benefits from a collaborative network, professional support, and clear career pathways. However, the practice maintains its own identity and community focus, with friendly staff and a genuine commitment to the animals and people it serves.