Senior Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

This is a senior veterinary surgeon position offering the chance to develop leadership skills within a thriving small animal practice. You’ll work across four sites in the South Devon area, close to Dartmoor and local beaches, supporting the Practice Director in guiding clinical standards and team development. The role combines clinical excellence with mentorship—responsibilities are tailored to your interests and experience, so you can shape how you contribute.

You’ll benefit from a genuine 4-day working week alongside participation in a fairly-shared weekend rota. The practice operates three satellite branches, each with its own established team and loyal client base, so you’ll have variety in your week and the chance to build relationships across multiple communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Practice Director in strategic direction and team leadership
• Contribute to rota management and scheduling across four practice sites
• Lead by example in clinical excellence and patient care standards
• Mentor and support clinical colleagues in their professional development
• Help shape clinical decision-making and practice protocols
• Collaborate with South Devon Veterinary Referrals (offering Ophthalmology, Orthopaedic Surgery, and Cardiac services) and assist in developing additional specialist referral capabilities

Requirements

• Qualified veterinary surgeon with significant post-graduation experience
• Proven capability in small animal clinical practice
• Leadership potential or experience—you should be comfortable supporting team development
• Strong commitment to patient care and client communication
• Willingness to participate in shared weekend rotas

Benefits

• Work-Life Balance: 4-day working week, 6.6 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays plus birthday off, flexible working options considered
• Professional Development: £1,250 annual CPD allowance, 40 hours paid CPD time, access to Vetlexicon online resources, Certificate and advanced learning support, world-leading IVC Evidensia Training Centres, £1,250 annual Care Fund
• Health & Wellbeing: Private medical insurance, enhanced family-friendly leave and pay, 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Programme
• Professional Memberships: BVA membership, VDS cover, RCVS fees covered
• Lifestyle Perks: Cycle to Work scheme, Green Car scheme (eligibility applies), retail discounts and cashback offers, reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets

About the Practice

Powderham Veterinary Group is part of IVC Evidensia, one of the world’s largest veterinary care networks with over 2,500 clinics and hospitals in 20 countries. The practice serves South Devon with three satellite branches, each with its own loyal client base and experienced team. The group is committed to excellent patient care, outstanding client communication, and a culture that genuinely supports team wellbeing and professional development.

The practice has access to South Devon Veterinary Referrals, which provides specialist services including Ophthalmology, Orthopaedic Surgery, and Cardiac care. This integrated approach means you’ll work alongside experienced colleagues and have real opportunities to develop your clinical interests within a supportive environment.