Lead Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

Portchester Vets is seeking an experienced Lead Veterinary Surgeon to guide a close-knit team and help shape the practice’s future. You’ll combine hands-on clinical work with genuine leadership—mentoring colleagues, building confidence across the team, and maintaining high standards of care. This full-time position works 38 hours across four days, with one in three Saturday mornings (9am–12pm). There are no out-of-hours or on-call commitments, making this ideal for someone who values work-life balance alongside professional responsibility. Located in Fareham, you’ll enjoy coastal living with easy access to Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent, and the South Downs—plus excellent transport links to Southampton and London.

The practice sees primarily cats and dogs with the occasional rabbit, offering a well-balanced mix of consultations and surgery. While most procedures are routine, you’ll have clinical autonomy and access to excellent diagnostic tools including digital X-ray, dental X-ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, K-laser, and an in-house IDEXX laboratory. Strong relationships with neighbouring practices mean referral options are available, while some sole charge responsibilities ensure you work independently and confidently.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide clinical leadership and mentoring to the veterinary and nursing team, helping to develop confidence and maintain high clinical standards
• Work alongside one other vet, four RVNs, two SVNs, and the client care team to deliver excellent patient care
• Manage a varied small animal caseload with surgical and consultative work, with autonomy to work cases up thoroughly using practice facilities
• Take on some sole charge responsibilities, making confident independent decisions supported by referral networks and visiting specialists when needed
• Contribute to the smooth operation and development of the practice

Requirements

• RCVS registered veterinary surgeon with proven experience in leading a practice and supporting veterinary and nursing teams
• Demonstrated ability to mentor colleagues and maintain high standards of clinical care
• Comfortable with sole charge work and confident decision-making in small animal practice
• Experience in general small animal medicine and surgery
• Strong communication and leadership skills

Benefits

• Salary & Bonuses: Up to £80,000 depending on experience, welcome bonus up to £5,000, relocation allowance up to £5,000
• Work-Life Balance: 6.6 weeks annual leave inclusive of bank holidays (pro rata), additional holiday for your birthday, no out-of-hours or on-call commitments
• Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance, 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, enhanced family-friendly policies (maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental, surrogacy pay)
• Professional Development: £1,250 CPD allowance with 40 hours paid CPD leave (pro rata), certificate support, IVC Evidensia Academy access, Vetlexicon online encyclopaedia, research funding opportunities, £1,250 annual Care Fund per vet
• Professional Memberships: BVA membership, VDS cover, RCVS fees covered
• Pension & Schemes: Company pension with employer contribution, Cycle to Work scheme, Green Cars Scheme, voluntary benefits package
• Additional Perks: Discounts and cashback with hundreds of retailers, discounted treatment for your own pets at IVC Evidensia practices

About the Practice

Portchester Vets has been caring for pets and their owners for over a decade, establishing itself as a trusted, well-loved practice within the local Fareham community. Located a short walk from the high street, the practice is known for its welcoming atmosphere, loyal client base, and relationships built on trust. Set within a converted house, the practice has a warm and homely feel, featuring a dedicated laboratory, X-ray suite, office space, comfortable staff room with refreshment facilities, and convenient on-site parking.

Portchester Vets is part of IVC Evidensia, one of the UK’s leading veterinary groups, giving the practice access to specialist support, professional development opportunities through the IVC Evidensia Academy, and additional resources while maintaining its independent character and community focus. The team comprises experienced vets and nurses committed to providing quality care and high standards of professional service.