Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Fareham

Portchester Vets | Fareham, Hampshire

Salary up to £80,000 DOE, welcome bonus of up to £5,000, and relocation allowance of up to £5,000.

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. For over a decade, Portchester Vets has been a trusted part of the local community, providing compassionate care to pets and their owners. Situated just a short walk from the high street, the practice is known for its welcoming atmosphere, loyal client base and strong, lasting relationships.

We are now seeking a confident and experienced Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our close-knit team and help shape the future of the practice. The caseload is predominantly cats and dogs, with the occasional rabbit, offering a balanced mix of consultations and surgery. While much of the work is routine, you’ll have the clinical freedom to fully work up cases using excellent diagnostic equipment, including digital and dental X‑ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, K‑laser and an in‑house IDEXX laboratory. Established links with nearby practices provide referral support when needed, while some sole charge responsibility makes this an ideal role for a vet who thrives on autonomy and sound clinical judgement.

Housed in a charming converted building, the practice has a warm, homely feel and is well equipped with a dedicated lab, X‑ray suite, office space and comfortable staff facilities, alongside convenient on‑site parking. You’ll be supported by a skilled and proactive nursing team, and join a friendly group comprising another vet, four RVNs, two SVNs and a dedicated client care team, with additional locum and specialist support available when required.

How You’ll Make a Difference

As Lead Veterinary Surgeon, you will be the most senior veterinary clinician within the practice, responsible for leading clinical standards, governance, and the delivery of outstanding patient and client care. You’ll provide clinical leadership to the veterinary team, oversee complex cases, and act as the primary source of clinical guidance and decision‑making within the practice. Working closely with the senior practice leadership team, you’ll support the strategic direction of the practice and drive continuous improvement in clinical quality, outcomes, and ways of working.

Full‑time position working 38 hours across four days, 1 in 3 Saturday mornings from 9 am to 12 pm. No out‑of‑hours or on‑call commitments. Part‑time applications also welcome.

You Might Be a Great Fit If…

You are a highly experienced veterinary surgeon with strong clinical expertise and a passion for leadership and clinical excellence. You’ll bring:

• A Veterinary degree and registration with the RCVS with significant experience in small or mixed animal practice, with advanced surgical and medical capability.
• Proven experience in mentoring, coaching, and supporting veterinary colleagues.
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision‑making skills.
• Experience contributing to or leading clinical governance, audits, and quality improvement initiatives.
• The ability to manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance in complex situations.
• Professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to the highest standards of patient and client care.

How We’ll Support You

At inspiring vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:

• Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles.
• Funded learning and development including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres & role‑relevant courses.
• £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet.
• Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks.
• Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities.
• A collaborative, values‑led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement.

What We Offer Our Team

• 6.6 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays.
• Private medical insurance.
• Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy.
• BVA membership, VDS cover & RCVS fees.
• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies).
• Retail discounts and cashback offers.
• Reduced‑cost veterinary care for your own pets.

We’re committed to supporting our people through career development opportunities, wellbeing initiatives and access to world‑class learning resources. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, inspiring vet care offers the support, opportunity and community to help you grow.