Head Veterinary Surgeon (Maternity Cover)

About the Role

YourVets Sheldon is seeking an experienced Veterinary Surgeon to take on a Head Vet position covering maternity leave. This is a fantastic opportunity to step into clinical leadership whilst maintaining a genuinely work-friendly schedule: a 4-day working week with one Saturday per month (1:3 Saturday rota), plus an extra day off every four weeks for a 3-day weekend. There’s no out-of-hours work and no sole charge expectations—just focused clinical leadership and collaboration.

You’ll oversee day-to-day team support, lead case discussions, and provide clinical guidance to a friendly group of eight vets ranging from newly qualified through to highly experienced colleagues. The practice is part of a wider network of five YourVets locations with around 30 FTE vets across the group, creating excellent opportunities for progression and peer support.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide clinical leadership and mentorship to a team of eight veterinary surgeons at various career stages
• Support day-to-day case discussions and clinical decision-making
• Work across the practice’s caseload, bringing your own clinical interests and expertise to the team
• Collaborate with the wider YourVets network of five practices for continuity and shared learning
• Maintain high clinical standards and contribute to the supportive, collaborative culture

Requirements

• Registered Veterinary Surgeon with relevant experience in small animal practice
• Demonstrable leadership capability and experience mentoring junior colleagues (or strong potential to lead)
• Comfortable working in a first opinion small animal environment
• Enthusiasm for clinical teaching and shared learning

Benefits

• Competitive salary: £50,000–£85,000 FTE depending on experience
• 4-day working week (full-time position)
• 1:3 Saturday rota (not every weekend)
• Additional day off every 4 weeks (monthly 3-day weekend)
• No out-of-hours or overnight on-call duties
• One dedicated operating day each week
• Supportive team environment with colleagues spanning all experience levels
• Access to the wider YourVets network and progression opportunities
• Opportunity to visit the practice beforehand and experience the team culture firsthand

About the Practice

YourVets Sheldon is a welcoming, well-established first opinion small animal practice located in Birmingham. The practice is part of the CVS Group and operates within a network of five YourVets locations, backed by around 30 FTE veterinary surgeons across the group—including several certificate holders. This structure provides robust support, clinical continuity, and clear pathways for professional development.

The team culture emphasises collaboration, discussion, and shared learning. You’re actively encouraged to visit the practice before applying to experience the environment firsthand and meet your potential colleagues. For more details or to arrange a visit, contact the recruiter Lauren on 01379 658264.