At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a supportive veterinary team while providing hands-on clinical care.
- Company: Village Vet Berkhamsted, part of a larger network with collaborative opportunities.
- Benefits: Up to £75,000 salary, generous holiday, and extensive CPD support.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with excellent career progression and wellness programmes.
- Why this job: Shape a thriving practice and enjoy a balanced lifestyle in beautiful Berkhamsted.
- Qualifications: Minimum 5 years UK GP experience and strong interest in companion animal medicine.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 75000 £ per year.
Practice: Village Vet Berkhamsted & St Albans Hospital
Location: Hertfordshire
Role Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: 42 hours per week across 4 days, including weekends (either 1 in 3 Saturdays or 1 full weekend in 6, with time off in lieu)
Salary: Up to £75,000 per annum DOE + relocation support available for direct candidates
Are you an experienced Veterinary Surgeon looking for your next step into a leadership role, whilst still maintaining a varied and rewarding clinical caseload? At Village Vet Berkhamsted, we’re looking for a Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our established and supportive team, combining the opportunity to shape and influence a thriving first opinion practice with a real leadership responsibility while still remaining hands‑on clinically.
Why Join Us?
- Competitive salary of up to £75,000 DOE plus relocation support available for direct candidates
- A genuine leadership opportunity with autonomy and influence whilst remaining hands‑on clinically
- Strong, stable and supportive team environment with experienced colleagues around you
- Join part of a larger network of practices across Hertfordshire and London with collaborative working possibilities available
Team and Practice
- 1 Veterinary Surgeon (currently working towards an exotic certificate)
- 4 Registered Veterinary Nurses
- 4 Client Care Assistants
Given the existing exotics expertise within the team, we are particularly interested in candidates with a stronger bias towards dogs and cats who can complement the current clinical offering. You’ll also become part of the wider Village Vet and St Albans Hospital teams, giving access to additional clinical support, collaboration and learning opportunities. Village Vet Berkhamsted offers a loyal and affluent client base with a high proportion of insured patients, allowing vets the opportunity to work cases up thoroughly and practice high‑quality medicine. Working alongside St Albans Hospital provides access to a broader caseload, additional equipment, experienced colleagues and a hospital environment that supports ongoing development. This combination creates an ideal role for someone looking for both autonomy and clinical progression.
Berkhamsted offers the perfect combination of countryside living and excellent connectivity. Located on the edge of the Chilterns, Berkhamsted combines historic charm, countryside views and a thriving community atmosphere, whilst still offering convenient transport links into London and surrounding areas. For candidates looking for a better work‑life balance without sacrificing accessibility, Berkhamsted offers an excellent lifestyle opportunity.
What we’re looking for:
- Solid UK GP experience (min 5 years), confident managing routine medical and surgical cases independently
- Comfortable taking ownership, making clinical decisions and providing leadership within a practice environment
- Enjoys mentoring, supporting and collaborating with colleagues to help create a positive team culture
- Excellent communication skills and enjoys building strong, long‑term client relationships
- Strong interest in companion animal medicine and surgery, particularly dogs and cats
- Passionate about delivering high standards of patient and client care
- Previous leadership experience is welcomed but not essential for candidates ready to take the next step into a Lead position.
What we offer
- 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays and Birthday Leave
- RCVS and VDS fees paid
- External CPD funded
- Extensive free online Linnaeus CPD programme
- Career progression opportunities
- Staff discount schemes
- Life Assurance
- Enhanced sickness pay
- Enhanced equal family leave
- E-car salary sacrifice scheme
- Employer contribution pension scheme
- Recruitment referral reward scheme
- Wellness program including: Employee assistance program, Eyecare voucher scheme, Free annual Flu jab, Cycle to work scheme
Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Village Vet Berkhamsted employer: Cinque Ports Vets
At Village Vet Berkhamsted, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a competitive salary of up to £75,000 and comprehensive relocation support for direct candidates. Our strong, stable team environment fosters collaboration and professional growth, while the picturesque location in Berkhamsted provides a perfect blend of countryside living and easy access to London, ensuring a rewarding work-life balance for our staff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Village Vet Berkhamsted
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the veterinary field, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios specific to veterinary leadership roles. We recommend role-playing with a friend or mentor to build your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for animal care and leadership during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've positively impacted your team or improved patient care in previous roles. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our Village Vet family.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Village Vet Berkhamsted
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Lead Veterinary Surgeon role. Highlight your leadership experience and clinical expertise, especially in companion animal medicine.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for veterinary medicine and why you want to join Village Vet Berkhamsted. Don’t forget to mention how you can contribute to the team culture.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Lead Vet, strong communication is key. Use your application to demonstrate how you build relationships with clients and mentor colleagues. This will show us you’re a great fit for our supportive environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cinque Ports Vets
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially around dogs and cats, as this role focuses on companion animal medicine. Be prepared to discuss your clinical experiences and how they relate to the responsibilities of a Lead Veterinary Surgeon.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Even if you haven't held a formal leadership position before, think about times you've taken charge or mentored others. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your ability to lead and support a team, as this is a key aspect of the role.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for building relationships with clients and colleagues. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and be prepared to discuss how you would handle difficult conversations or client interactions.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the practice, team dynamics, and opportunities for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the practice aligns with your career goals.
