Lead Equine Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

This is a leadership opportunity for an experienced equine clinician who wants to drive clinical excellence and team development. You'll be the senior veterinary clinician at Rufford Veterinary Group's dedicated equine centre in Holmeswood, taking centre stage in clinical decision-making and strategic direction. The caseload spans leisure, sport, and performance horses, offering variety and genuine clinical challenge.

Working Monday to Friday between 8am and 5pm, you'll also contribute to an on-call rota with one in four weekends on call (days off in lieu provided). The practice is purpose-built for equine care, with examination rooms, stables, a knockdown box, paddocks, x-ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, gastroscopy, shock wave therapy, dentistry services, and acupuncture therapy available. Quick-turnaround pathology support comes from the in-house small animal clinic lab.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver exceptional clinical care across a varied equine caseload, managing both routine and emergency cases
• Provide clinical leadership and mentorship to the equine team, supporting their development and professional growth
• Drive the development and expansion of equine services within the practice
• Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships with clients
• Contribute to clinical governance, protocols, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Work collaboratively with the wider practice leadership team on strategic direction
• Participate in the shared out-of-hours and weekend on-call rota

Requirements

• MRCVS registered with substantial equine veterinary experience
• Veterinary degree (BVSc, BVetMed, or equivalent) with RCVS registration
• Significant experience in small animal, mixed animal, or equine 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, audits, and quality improvement initiatives
• Ability to manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance in complex situations
• Established or aspiring leader with strong team-building skills
• Confidence in both routine and emergency equine work
• Excellent client-focused communication
• Commitment to high clinical standards and professionalism

Benefits

• Salary up to £80,000 per annum depending on experience, plus £5,000 welcome bonus
• £1,250 annual Care Fund for professional development
• Funded learning and development including CPD allowance and access to IVC Academy training centres and role-relevant courses
• 6.8 weeks' holiday including bank holidays
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption, and surrogacy
• BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees paid
• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
• 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
• Collaborative, values-led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement

About the Practice

Rufford Veterinary Group has been committed to high-standard, affordable care for companion and equine animals for 90 years. The group has expanded into one of the north-west's leading practices while maintaining its compassionate and client-first approach. Three dedicated small animal practices in Rufford, Southport, and Tarleton are complemented by a separate, purpose-built equine treatment centre in Holmeswood. The large team of receptionists, qualified nurses, and experienced veterinary surgeons provide holistic, individual care to all patients.

Rufford Veterinary Group is part of inspiring vet care, the UK's number one vet care provider, trusted with the care of over 2 million animals. The broader organisation is committed to supporting ongoing development and wellbeing through career pathways, mentorship, clinical coaching, and a values-led culture centred on continuous improvement.