Practice Director

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. Donnington Grove Veterinary Group is looking for an experienced and dynamic Director of Practice to lead our established, multi‑disciplinary veterinary business in Newbury. As part of Inspiring Vet Care, we are a progressive and ambitious group, committed to clinical excellence, exceptional client relationships and creating a collaborative, high‑performing culture where our teams can thrive. We operate across three sites, delivering outstanding care through our Small Animal Hospital, Equine Hospital and ambulatory services. In addition, we have a well‑established on‑site laboratory service, led by our Head of Laboratory Services, which continues to grow in both scope and reputation.

Supporting local practices as well as the wider IVC equine network, the laboratory plays a key role in both clinical delivery and the ongoing commercial development of the business. This is a full‑time role but we are flexible for the right candidate.

How You’ll Make a Difference

As Director of Practice, you will have overall accountability for the performance, strategy and culture of the Donnington Grove Veterinary Group, balancing clinical excellence with strong operational and commercial outcomes. You’ll lead both clinical and non‑clinical teams, set the strategic direction of the group, and ensure the delivery of outstanding patient and client care alongside sustainable business performance. Working closely with the Directors of the Equine departments, the Small Animal Director of Practice and Clinical Services and the Head of Laboratory Services, you’ll drive continuous improvement across clinical standards, people development, financial performance and ways of working.

Key Responsibilities

• Full accountability for operational and financial performance across all sites and service lines
• Leadership of Small Animal, Equine and Laboratory services, ensuring alignment and integration
• Driving clinical standards and service delivery in partnership with senior clinical leadership
• Supporting the laboratory with its continued growth and contribution to the wider business
• Leading a robust people strategy, including recruitment, retention, engagement and performance management
• Embedding a strong HR framework, ensuring best practice across employee relations, wellbeing and organisational development
• Ensuring compliance with RCVS standards and regulatory requirements
• Supporting and delivering business growth, efficiency and change initiatives
• Fostering a positive, inclusive and high‑performing culture across all teams

The Director of Practice will play a central role in the implementation of inspiring vet care's strategy and objectives, ensuring the practice delivers exceptional care while maintaining a sustainable and high‑performing business. This is a multi‑site, multi‑disciplinary leadership role, requiring a visible, engaged and commercially aware leader.

You Might Be a Great Fit If...

You are a highly experienced veterinary leader with strong clinical credibility and proven operational and strategic leadership capability. You’ll bring:

• Proven leadership experience with accountability for clinical, operational, and commercial performance
• Strong financial and operational understanding, including experience with business planning