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Veterinary Surgeon - Lead Equine Vet

Rufford Veterinary Group, Ormskirk, Ormskirk, North West

Discipline: Equine

Full Time, Part Time, Flexible

Up to X pa DOE

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Salary up to £80,000 DOE plus £5,000 Welcome Bonus

We are seeking an experienced and driven Lead Equine Veterinary Surgeon to join our progressive, client-focused practice. This is an exciting leadership opportunity for a confident clinician looking to shape and develop a thriving equine service while working within a supportive and collaborative team.

At inspiring vet care, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As the UK’s number one vet care provider, we're trusted with the care of over 2 million animals, delivering our purpose of healthier animals and happier owners.

You will play a central role in delivering high standards of veterinary care, building strong client relationships, and leading a talented team of equine professionals. The caseload is varied and rewarding, spanning leisure, sport, and performance horses. Our purpose-built equine clinic includes examination rooms, stables, a knockdown box, and paddocks. We are well-equipped with x-ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, gastroscopy, shock wave therapy, and dentistry services. Our in-house lab at the small animal clinic enables us to get quick results for urgent cases. Additionally, we offer acupuncture therapy.

How You’ll Make a Difference 

As Lead Veterinary Surgeon, you will be the most senior veterinary clinician within the practice, responsible for leading clinical standards, governance, and the delivery of outstanding patient and client care. 

You’ll provide clinical leadership to the veterinary team, oversee complex cases, and act as the primary source of clinical guidance and decision-making within the practice. Working closely with the senior practice leadership team, you’ll support the strategic direction of the practice and drive continuous improvement in clinical quality, outcomes, and ways of working.

The role is Monday to Friday between the hours 8am and 5pm, contributing to the on call rota. 1 in 4 weekends on call with days off in lieu for this.

Key Responsibilities

Deliver exceptional clinical care across a varied equine caseload
Provide clinical leadership and mentorship to the equine team
Drive the development and expansion of equine services
Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships with clients
Contribute to clinical governance, protocols, and continuous improvement
Work collaboratively with the wider practice leadership team
Participate in a shared out-of-hours and weekend rota

You Might Be a Great Fit If... 

MRCVS registered with substantial equine veterinary experience
Established or aspiring leader with strong mentoring and team-building skills
Confident in both routine and emergency equine work
Excellent communicator with a client-focused mindset
Motivated, proactive, and committed to high clinical standards
Interest in developing specific clinical areas or services welcomed

 
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, with 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

     
     
  • 6.8 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.
  • Rufford Veterinary Group, Ormskirk's logo

    Rufford Veterinary Group, Ormskirk

    9 Holly Lane, Ormskirk, Ormskirk, L40 1SH, United Kingdom

    Animals treated

    Dogs, cats & small pets

    Exotic Friendly

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

    Senior Talent Partner

    Jim Dixon

    jim.dixon@ivcevidensia.com