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Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Forest Lodge Veterinary Practice Ltd, New Milton, South East

Discipline: Small Animal

Full Time, Part Time, Flexible

Up to £65,000 DOE

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We’re looking for a dedicated Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our team and work alongside our current part-time Lead Vet. In this leadership role, you’ll oversee the clinical standards of the practice, nurture long-term client relationships, and enjoy full clinical autonomy to make the right decisions for your patients every day.

About the Role


As an RCVS-accredited first opinion practice, we have a well-established team of 4 FTE vets with a wide range of clinical interests, including dermatology, medicine, imaging, and emergency care. You’ll play a key role in supporting and developing the clinical team through mentoring, coaching, and leading on professional standards.

Your responsibilities will include:


  • Managing complex clinical cases and providing expert clinical advice
  • Leading on clinical governance, including protocols, audits, and quality improvement
  • Supporting the performance and development of the wider veterinary team
  • Maintaining high standards of patient care and ensuring continuity for clients
  • Upholding RCVS accountability both personally and for the broader clinical team

  • We offer a generous CPD budget and actively encourage certificate study to support your professional growth and future ambitions.

    About You


    We’re looking for someone with:
  • Strong clinical experience and confidence managing complex cases
  • Leadership experience with the ability to mentor and support others
  • A commitment to continuous improvement and clinical excellence
  • A collaborative approach and the desire to help shape a high-performing team

  • About Us


    Our modern, well-equipped practice is designed to support clinical development and excellent patient care. You’ll have the tools and freedom to deliver the standard of care you believe in, with continuity at the heart of what we do.

    Our facilities include:
  • Digital X-ray & Dental X-ray
  • Ultrasound
  • K-Laser
  • Full in-house lab with dedicated Lab Tech and direct IDEXX links
  • Separate dog and cat areas
  • Isolation unit

  • We’re also committed to continuous improvement, always looking for ways to expand our services and enhance patient care.

    Located in the beautiful New Forest, with excellent access to Bournemouth and Southampton, this is a fantastic opportunity to combine a fulfilling clinical career with an enviable work–life balance.

    Flexibility That Fits Your Lifestyle


    We understand the importance of balance. Our rota is designed to support fair case distribution and a manageable workload:

  • 4-day week available with a regular day off
  • No OOH
  • Weekend rota: 1 in 6, Saturdays 9am–5pm, Sundays off

  • You Matter to Us – Your Benefits at a Glance


    Work-life Balance & Wellbeing

  • 6.6 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays – plus your birthday off
  • Private medical insurance 
  • Enhanced family-friendly leave and pay 
  • 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Programme 

  • Development 

  • £1,250 CPD allowance + 40 hours paid CPD 
  • Certificate and advanced learning support & Access to Vetlexicon online resources  
  • World leading IVC Evidensia Training Centres
  • £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet 
  •  

    Professional Memberships 

  • BVA membership 
  • VDS cover 
  • RCVS fees

  • Colleague Benefits 

  • Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies) 
  • Retail discounts and cashback offers 
  • Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets  

  • Apply today or get in touch for an informal, confidential chat. 
    Forest Lodge Veterinary Practice Ltd, New Milton's logo

    Forest Lodge Veterinary Practice Ltd, New Milton

    14 Barton Court Road, BH25 6NP, United Kingdom

    Animals treated

    Dogs, cats & small pets

    Apply

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

    Senior Talent Partner

    Megan Dawson

    megan.dawson@ivcevidensia.com