Lead Veterinary Surgeon

Sponsorship Jobs UK; Telford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading veterinary practice in Telford is seeking a passionate Lead Veterinary Surgeon to inspire the team and uphold clinical excellence. This role involves overseeing clinic operations, mentoring staff, and ensuring outstanding patient care. Ideal candidates will possess strong communication skills and leadership experience, with at least 3 years in veterinary practice. The position includes a 40-hour week with benefits such as generous leave and professional development funding, with visa sponsorship available.

Benefits

Generous annual leave

Private healthcare

Professional support for fees

Funding for CPD

Cycle-to-work scheme

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in veterinary practice.
• Strong foundation in veterinary clinical standards.
• Proven ability in leading and developing teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the clinic's operational effectiveness.
• Deliver high-quality veterinary clinical care.
• Promote a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

Skills

Clinical expertise

Leadership experience

Communication skills

Business awareness

Education

VetGDP qualification or commitment to obtain

Job description

# Lead Veterinary Surgeon(UK Visa Sponsorship)### Job Description## About the RoleWe are looking for a passionate and experienced Veterinary Surgeon to join our team in Telford — someone who cares deeply about both animals and the people who love them. In this leadership position, you will inspire and guide a team of veterinary professionals, ensuring excellent clinical care and fostering a supportive, collaborative work environment. You will also play an active role in shaping how our hospital operates day-to-day and contributes to the wider mission of Animal Trust.### Your Core ResponsibilitiesAs our Lead Veterinary Surgeon, your duties will include:**Clinical Leadership & Team Development*** Champion and uphold high clinical standards across the team through coaching, mentoring, and structured feedback.* Support and guide less experienced vets, including participation in the Veterinary Graduate Development Programme (VetGDP) and acting as an advisor where appropriate.* Lead regular staff meetings, clinical governance sessions, and contribute to continuous professional development initiatives.**Operational Responsibilities*** Work closely with the Practice Manager and Head Nurse to oversee the smooth running of the clinic’s operations.* Monitor, evaluate, and act upon key performance indicators (KPIs) and profit/loss performance to support sustained clinical excellence and business health.* Maintain compliance with professional standards and regulatory expectations, including requirements set by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), the statutory regulator for vets in the UK.**Outstanding Patient & Client Care*** Deliver high-quality veterinary care across a varied caseload, including diagnostics, surgery, and preventative treatments.* Communicate effectively and compassionately with pet owners, helping them understand conditions, treatment options, and preventive healthcare.**Team Culture & Values*** Model and embed the Animal Trust Values in all interactions, cultivating a welcoming and inclusive workplace for staff and clients alike.* Actively promote a positive, supportive culture that balances clinical excellence with compassionate care.### Who We’re Looking ForTo thrive in this role, you should bring:* Clinical Expertise: A strong clinical foundation with a genuine passion for coaching and professional development.* Communication Skills:* Leadership Experience: Confidence in leading teams, managing performance conversations, and facilitating meetings.* VetGDP Qualification or Willingness to Pursue: Either already holding the qualification or a commitment to obtain it.* Business Awareness: An interest in using performance data and financial insight to guide improvement (experience preferred but not essential).* Work Schedule* 40 hours per week* 4-day work week* Weekend rota: Approximately 2 in 9 (weekends worked at our Shrewsbury Hospital site; not sole charge)### What We OfferWe care for our team just as we care for our patients. Benefits include:* Generous leave: 6 weeks’ annual holiday* 52 weeks’ sickness benefit, private healthcare, and free employee support program* Professional support: RCVS and VDS fees paid**Visa sponsorship available*** Cycle-to-work & e-car schemes* Contributory pension scheme* Enhanced maternity/paternity support* Counseling & wellbeing support after 12 months* Funding for continued professional development (CPD)#### About Animal TrustAnimal Trust is a to offering affordable veterinary care to all. We reinvest the majority of our profits back into our team and our patients’ wellbeing — helping to make compassionate animal care more accessible across our communities.LocationExperience3 Year