At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a supportive team, performing surgeries and consultations in a well-equipped clinic.
- Company: Independent small animal practice near London, prioritising work-life balance and quality care.
- Benefits: Salary up to £65,000, 4-day week, accommodation available, and generous annual leave.
- Why this job: Enjoy clinical freedom and make a real difference without corporate pressure.
- Qualifications: RCVS registered Veterinary Surgeon with 3+ years UK experience.
- Other info: Clear career progression and certificate support available after 6 months.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 78000 £ per year.
Veterinary Surgeon – Independent Practice
Salary up to £65,000 | 4-day week | Certificate support | Accommodation available
GVC are assisting a proudly independent small animal practice located on the outskirts of London, offering excellent transport links into the city while avoiding the daily London grind. This is a rare opportunity to join a genuinely supportive, well-equipped clinic that values clinical freedom, quality care, and work–life balance. With easy access into London and the flexibility to adjust start times to miss rush hour, this role suits a Veterinary Surgeon who wants the best of both worlds — strong clinical exposure without the pressure of corporate targets.
The Role
- Full-time 4-day working week
- 1 in 4 Saturday mornings, no Sundays
- No OOH – covered by a local external hospital
- Typically 1–2 dedicated operating days per week, rota planned around your interests
- Mix of consulting, medicine, and surgery
- Surgery days usually 8:30am–7pm with proper lunch breaks and regular downtime
- Flexibility with hours where possible
- The practice operates across two sites: One branch focused primarily on consulting; a main site handling both medicine and surgical cases
About You
- RCVS registered Veterinary Surgeon
- Around 3+ years’ UK experience
- A keen interest in surgery would be beneficial (though not essential)
- Comfortable working as part of a close-knit, collaborative team
- Looking for autonomy, progression, and long-term stability in an independent setting
Facilities & Clinical Support
- Two fully equipped theatres
- High-end diagnostics including ultrasound, imaging equipment, and dental suite
- Visiting orthopaedic surgeon 1–2 days per week
- Strong, loyal, and largely insured client base
- No sales pressure — clinical decisions are always led by you and the client
The owner is highly supportive but hands-off clinically, allowing you full autonomy to practise the way you feel is best.
The Team
- 2 full-time Vets, 1 part-time Vet
- Locum support currently in place during recruitment
- 5 experienced RVNs
- 3 support staff, including a Practice Manager with 25 years at the clinic
- A genuinely warm, stable, and supportive culture
Development & Progression
- Certificate support available after 6 months (e.g. surgery or imaging)
- Clear clinical progression pathway for a Vet interested in moving toward Senior / Lead / Head Vet level as the owner gradually reduces their hours
Salary & Benefits
- Salary up to £65,000 (DOE)
- Accommodation available if relocating – newly refurbished on-site flat
- 4-day week with rota flexibility
- CPD and certificate support
- Independent ethos — no corporatisation, no heavy KPIs
- 6.6 Weeks Annual leave + your birthday off!
Interview Process
- Single-stage, on-site interview
- Opportunity to meet the team and see the culture first-hand
Apply now or contact me for more details.
Veterinary Surgeon | Independent Practice | Dedicated ops days | Clear career progression employer: Global Veterinary Careers (GVC)
Contact Detail:
Global Veterinary Careers (GVC) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Veterinary Surgeon | Independent Practice | Dedicated ops days | Clear career progression
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the practice before your interview! Research their values and culture, and think about how your experience aligns with their ethos. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in joining their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask during your interview. This shows you're engaged and keen to learn more about the role and the team. Plus, it gives you a chance to assess if this is the right fit for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for veterinary medicine during the interview. Share specific examples of your experiences, especially those that highlight your interest in surgery or working collaboratively within a team. Let them see your enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows your professionalism and keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Veterinary Surgeon | Independent Practice | Dedicated ops days | Clear career progression
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your surgical interests and any relevant UK experience to show us you're the right fit for our independent practice.
Craft a Personal Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about veterinary surgery and how you align with our values of quality care and clinical freedom. A personal touch goes a long way in making your application stand out!
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since we value collaboration, mention any experiences where you've worked closely with a team. Let us know how you contribute to a supportive culture, as that's key to thriving in our practice.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Global Veterinary Careers (GVC)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially around surgery and clinical practices. Familiarise yourself with the latest techniques and equipment they use at the practice. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Show Your Passion for Independence
Since this is an independent practice, highlight your desire for autonomy in clinical decision-making. Share examples of how you've thrived in similar environments and how you value quality care over corporate targets. This will resonate well with their ethos.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the practice's approach to patient care, team dynamics, and opportunities for professional development. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the practice aligns with your career goals.
✨Be Yourself
The culture at this practice is warm and supportive, so let your personality shine through. Be genuine in your responses and interactions. They’re looking for someone who fits into their close-knit team, so don’t be afraid to show your collaborative spirit!