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Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Barrow Hill Vets, Ashford, Ashford, South East

Discipline: Small Animal

Full Time, Flexible

Up to £80,000 DOE

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Salary up to £80,000 plus welcome bonus of up to £5000, and up to £5,000 relocation allowance

 
We are looking for an experienced and passionate Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our supportive and well-equipped practice.
 
You’ll be joining a talented team of 9 Veterinary Surgeons, 11 RVNs, 1 SVN and an ANA, supported by a dedicated client care team, insurance processor and bookings clerk. Visiting specialists are available in orthopaedics, cardiology and ophthalmology, and three of our vets hold AVP certificates.
 

Practice Highlights

 
  • Excellent facilities and equipment
  • On-site CT scanner
  • Laparoscopy, ultrasound and endoscopy facilities
  • Visiting specialists in orthopaedics, cardiology and ophthalmology
  • Team includes 9 Veterinary Surgeons, 11 RVNs, 1 SVN and an ANA
  • Three Veterinary Surgeons hold AVP certificates
  • Dedicated client care, insurance and bookings support
  • No out-of-hours or on-call commitments
  •  

    How You’ll Make a Difference

     
    In this role, you will lead, mentor, and inspire our clinical team, supporting vets and nurses as they develop their skills and confidence. You will oversee complex cases, provide second opinions, and maintain the highest standards of patient care, while driving clinical excellence through audits, protocols, and evidence-based best practice. 
     
    Strong clinical governance is essential, ensuring full compliance with RCVS guidance and IVC Evidensia standards. You will work closely with the Practice Director to support service development, implement improvements, and contribute to the ongoing growth of the practice. Additionally, you will foster a positive, engaged team culture that encourages learning, development, and collaboration, while supporting CPD and career progression to help the team reach their full potential.
     
     

    Working Pattern

     
  • 40 hours across 4 days
  • One regular day off each week
  • No out-of-hours or on-call commitments
  •  

    You Might Be a Great Fit If...

     

    You are a highly experienced veterinary surgeon with strong clinical expertise and a passion for leadership and clinical excellence. You’ll bring:

     
  • A Veterinary degree and registration with the RCVS with significant experience in small or mixed animal practice, including advanced surgical and medical capability
  • Proven experience in 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
  • The ability to manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance in complex situations
  • Professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to the highest standards of patient and client care
  •  

    How We’ll Support You

     

    At inspiring vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:

     
  • Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles
  • Funded learning and development including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres & role-relevant courses
  • £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet
  • Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
  • Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities
  • A collaborative, values-led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement
  •  

    What We Offer Our Team

     
  • 6.6 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays
  • Private medical insurance
  • Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy
  • BVA membership, VDS cover & RCVS fees
  • Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
  • Retail discounts and cashback offers
  • Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets
  •  

    We’re committed to supporting our people through career development opportunities, wellbeing initiatives and access to world-class learning resources.

     

    Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, inspiring vet care offers the support, opportunity and community to help you grow.

    Barrow Hill Vets, Ashford's logo

    Barrow Hill Vets, Ashford

    Maidstone Road, Ashford, TN24 8TY, United Kingdom

    Animals treated

    Dogs, cats & small pets

    Exotic Friendly

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    At IVC Evidensia we are a committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Belonging, we are keen to hear from candidates from all minority and diverse groups. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are keen to hear from candidates with disabilities and long-term health conditions and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process.

    Any questions before applying?

    Speak to Michael Middleton from our recruitment team who would be happy to help you with any questions you have before applying for this role.

    Senior Talent Partner

    Michael Middleton

    michael.middleton@ivcevidensia.com