Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal
1 day ago
Southampton
Unicorn Vets | Southampton, Hampshire – Salary up to £88,500 DOE, relocation allowance up to £5,000. Unicorn Vets is part of the Orchard Vets family, a well‑established group of veterinary practices with a reputation for excellence and a commitment to high‑quality care. The practice is equipped with in‑house facilities such as dental radiography, laparoscopy, endoscopy, K‑Laser, Vetscan Imagyst, and cryotherapy, and has access to a local IVC referral centre for complex cases. As Lead Veterinary Surgeon you will be the most senior veterinary clinician, responsible for leading clinical standards, governance, and delivering outstanding patient and client care. You will provide clinical leadership, oversee complex cases, and serve as the primary source of guidance and decision‑making within the practice. Working closely with senior leadership you will support strategic direction, drive continuous improvement, and shape the future of the team. • This is a full‑time role of 40 hours per week, worked across four or five days with a mix of early and late shifts. There is a 1:6 Saturday morning rota (8:30am–12:30pm), with no out‑of‑hours or on‑call requirements., • Part‑time applications are also welcomed., • 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., • Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles., • Funded learning and development including a 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., • 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr