An opportunity is available for a Veterinary Surgeon to join a proudly independent and family-run small animal and exotics practice based in the picturesque county of Norfolk. The practice is dedicated to delivering high-quality, affordable care to a wide range of patients, including both companion animals and exotic species. Its services extend beyond routine care to include referral work in exotics, CT imaging, laser therapy, acupuncture, cardiology, and advanced diagnostics.
Since opening in 2014 as a purpose-built facility, the practice has grown significantly and now includes a team of six day vets, four night vets, and a large support team of registered veterinary nurses, animal nursing assistants, and reception staff. Many of the nurses have developed specialist interests, including behaviour and exotics, and contribute to a wide range of nurse-led clinics. The culture within the practice is notably positive, with a strong focus on teamwork and delivering excellent service to a loyal client base.
The role is designed to support the existing daytime veterinary team, with a strong emphasis on delivering excellent clinical care while maintaining a healthy work–life balance. Continuity of care is encouraged, allowing vets to build lasting relationships with clients and follow cases through. The team structure ensures that experienced colleagues are always available to offer guidance on more complex cases, creating a supportive and collaborative working environment.
The caseload is varied and engaging, covering both medical and surgical cases, with a high proportion managed in-house. While the practice has a strong exotics component, candidates without prior experience in this area are encouraged to apply, as training and support are readily available. The practice holds multiple accreditations, including Gold Feline Friendly, Gold Rabbit Friendly, and Dog Friendly status, reflecting its commitment to high standards of patient care.
Facilities are extensive and continue to be developed, including an on-site CT scanner, digital and dental radiography, a modern ultrasound machine, endoscopy equipment, multi-parameter monitoring, and advanced therapies such as laser treatment and regenerative medicine. The clinical team includes certificate holders across a range of disciplines, including exotics, diagnostic imaging, cardiology, acupuncture, and emergency and critical care.
The position is flexible and can suit both experienced vets and those earlier in their careers, with structured support available for professional development, including completion of the Vet GDP and funded certificate opportunities. Vets who already hold certificates are also supported in expanding referral services within the practice.
Working patterns are structured around a four-day week, with regular long weekends built into the rota to promote a genuine work–life balance. Shifts run from 8:30am to 7:00pm, with dedicated time for case discussions and handovers to the in-house night team. The presence of a dedicated overnight team means there are no night shifts for day vets, and evening consultations are covered separately, helping ensure timely finishes. A consultation-only role can also be considered if preferred.
The package includes a competitive salary ranging from £35,000 to £75,000, depending on experience, along with generous annual leave starting at seven weeks and increasing with service. Additional benefits include funded CPD and certificates, paid professional fees, private healthcare, company sick pay, and discounted treatment for personal pets. Relocation support is also available.
The practice is located just North of Norwich, an area surrounded by scenic countryside and within easy reach of both the Norfolk coast and the Broads National Park. The nearby train station is just a short walk from the practice and offers a direct connection to Norwich in approximately 20 minutes, making it an accessible and attractive location for those seeking both convenience and quality of life.
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Independent family run practice require veterinary surgeon - Norwich, Norfolk employer: Bright Leaf Recruitment
Join a dynamic team in St Albans as a Veterinary Surgeon, where you'll have the unique opportunity to shape the future of a well-established practice under new ownership. Enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development with generous CPD allowances, alongside excellent benefits such as private medical insurance and life assurance. With a vibrant community atmosphere and a commitment to employee wellbeing, this role offers not just a job, but a fulfilling career path in a picturesque location.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent family run practice require veterinary surgeon - Norwich, Norfolk
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
✨Leverage Your Medical School's Resources
Don’t forget to use your medical school’s career services! They usually have great connections with hospitals and clinics looking to fill full-time physician positions and can help you with mock interviews or networking events.
✨Apply Directly Through Hospital Websites
When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like Bright Leaf Recruitment often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
Demonstrate Continuous Learning:In the medical field, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning is essential. Mention any recent courses, workshops, or conferences you’ve attended, and highlight your willingness to stay updated on medical advancements. This shows us that you’re not just a physician; you're a lifelong learner, ready to adapt and grow.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bright Leaf Recruitment
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at Bright Leaf Recruitment. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at Bright Leaf Recruitment.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at Bright Leaf Recruitment.
✨Stay Current with Medical Trends
Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at Bright Leaf Recruitment.