Clinical Director

About the Role

Vetcare Centres in Guernsey is seeking a clinically excellent, people-focused Clinical Director to lead their veterinary teams across two locations. This role combines meaningful clinical work with mentorship, operational leadership, and strategic input into the practice’s direction. You’ll be central to fostering a culture of clinical excellence and continuous improvement, actively involved in daily morning rounds, monthly team meetings, and case reviews with both vets and nurses.

Based on the idyllic island of Guernsey, this is a full-time permanent role with flexible scheduling options—whether you prefer a 4-day week or five shorter days, the practice is open to discussion. The OOH rota is manageable at 1:5 weeknights and weekends (including Saturday mornings, 9 am–12.30 pm), with the nursing team managing inpatients overnight. You’ll enjoy the warm, collaborative team culture where ideas are genuinely valued and social connections extend beyond work—think summer boat trips, pottery classes, and shared outdoor pursuits.

The practice offers island living in a safe, family-friendly environment with excellent natural beauty, vibrant community spirit, and quick access to Jersey, France, and the UK via direct flights. Mild climate, stunning beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle make Guernsey an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the clinical team across the two Guernsey locations (Les Eturs and Northside)
• Ensure high standards of clinical care, RCVS compliance, and outstanding client experience
• Oversee clinical rotas, mentorship, and professional development for vets and RVNs
• Be the clinical voice in operational and strategic leadership decisions alongside the Head of Operations
• Support performance management, case quality reviews, and reflection on outcomes with the team
• Collaborate with the Nursing Coordinator to implement clinical strategy and maintain practice standards
• Support the practice’s expansion plans, including new equipment (endoscopy, laparoscopy, CT scanner) coming within 12 months
• Foster relationships with the GSPCA and Alderney Animal Welfare to maintain partnership opportunities

Requirements

• MRCVS qualification and minimum 5 years’ clinical practice experience
• Prior leadership or mentorship experience strongly preferred (but not essential)
• Calm under pressure with a solution-focused, people-first approach
• Passionate about professional development, clinical standards, and collaborative teamwork
• Strong communicator with the ability to inspire and support a diverse team

Benefits

• Salary & Relocation: £85,000+ depending on experience, plus a £5,000 relocation package and use of a company car
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible hours (4-day or 5-day week options); manageable 1:5 OOH rota
• Holiday & Time Off: 5 weeks’ annual leave plus bank holidays
• Professional Development: CPD encouraged and funded; certificates supported; access to webinars and in-house training
• Professional Memberships: RCVS, VDS, and BVA fees paid
• Wellbeing: Private health insurance and subsidised gym membership
• Support: Visa sponsorship available; assistance with accommodation finding
• Tax Advantage: Low tax rates on the island
• Culture: Warm, collaborative team environment where your ideas and input are genuinely valued

About the Practice

Established in 1981, Vetcare Centres has served the Guernsey community for over 40 years with two clinics (Les Eturs and Northside) delivering mixed animal veterinary care. The practice caseload is primarily small animal (95%), with scope to expand farm animal and equine services. The team includes four experienced vets: JP (Jean-Paul), a seasoned GP with cardiology interests; Kamila, who specialises in ophthalmology; Kasia, a 2006 graduate from the University of Warmia and Mazury in Poland; and Martyna, who joined as a recent graduate in 2024 with interests in exotics and wildlife conservation.

The practice is a nurse training facility with two RVNs, three SVNs, and four VCAs, plus an excellent reception team led by Marie, a long-serving Head Receptionist. The practice partners with the GSPCA and Alderney Animal Welfare, providing diverse experience including wildlife care (puffins, seals). Currently expanding premises to add consultation rooms and theatres, with plans to introduce endoscopy, laparoscopy, and CT scanning within 12 months. The culture emphasises endless career support, CPD investment, ownership, trust, and continuous improvement.