At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a supportive team while providing excellent care for small animals.
- Company: Join Ivybank Vets, a friendly and established practice on the stunning Ayrshire coast.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a collaborative team culture await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in veterinary care while enjoying a balanced lifestyle.
- Qualifications: Experienced Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon with leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 ÂŁ per year.
At Ivybank Vets, we are looking for an experienced Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to step into a Clinical Lead role within our friendly, established practice along the beautiful west coast of Ayrshire. This is an exciting opportunity for a vet who enjoys the breadth and variety of general practice while also taking on a supportive leadership role within a collaborative and clinically focused team.
As Clinical Lead, you will work closely with our experienced Director of Practice and Clinical Services, Practice Manager and Head Nurse, helping to support the clinical team in delivering high standards of patient care. You will play an important role in championing clinical excellence and supporting colleagues in applying IVC's quality improvement programme in dayâtoâday practice. The position also offers the opportunity to deputise for the Director of Practice and Clinical Services when required.
This role would suit a vet who enjoys mentoring and supporting colleagues while continuing to work handsâon within a varied firstâopinion caseload. Over time, there will also be opportunities to further develop an interest in clinical leadership or business management, with support provided for professional development in these areas.
Hours and Flexible Working
We recognise the importance of workâlife balance and are always open to discussing flexibility where possible. The fullâtime position is based on 39 hours per week, typically worked across four days from 8:30am to 7:00pm Monday to Friday. The rota also includes 1 weekend every 4 weeks, consisting of a fourâhour shift. Our outâofâhours provision is covered externally, helping to maintain a manageable and balanced schedule.
Team and Facilities
Ivybank Vets is a wellâestablished, fourâbranch small animal practice with clinics located in Irvine, Kilwinning, Kilmarnock and West Kilbride. Our team consists of 11 experienced veterinary surgeons, supported by seven nurses, a student veterinary nurse, animal care assistants, and a dedicated reception and support team.
We pride ourselves on being a team of approachable general practitioners who enjoy sharing knowledge and supporting each other. Several of our vets have particular clinical interests, creating a collaborative environment where case discussion and learning are part of everyday practice. Our clinics are wellâequipped with modern diagnostic and surgical facilities, including digital radiography, ultrasound, dental equipment and inâhouse laboratory capabilities, allowing us to maintain excellent clinical standards and fully work up cases where appropriate.
Location and Culture
Situated along the stunning Ayrshire coastline, Ivybank Vets offers the perfect balance of professional fulfilment and lifestyle. With beautiful beaches, coastal walks and countryside right on your doorstep, the area is ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors, while the vibrant city of Glasgow is within easy commuting distance.
What truly defines Ivybank, however, is the team culture. We are a friendly and supportive group who genuinely enjoy working together and are proud of the relationships we build with our loyal client base. Our focus is always on delivering highâquality care for pets while maintaining a positive, collaborative environment where every member of the team feels valued and supported.
Because our people matter
We recognise that our people are fundamental to the success of our business. Investing in our people, premises and processes is at the heart of what we do. In addition to a competitive base salary, you will benefit from:
- Workâlife balance
- 6.8 weeks annual leave, inclusive of bank holidays
- Additional holiday entitlement for your birthday
- Wellbeing
- Private Medical Insurance
- Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 confidential helpline
- Enhanced familyâfriendly policies, including maternity/paternity/adoption/shared parental and surrogacy pay
- Initiatives focused on colleague wellbeing
- Development
- ÂŁ1250 CPD allowance with 40 hours paid CPD leave pro rata
- Certificate support
- Learning and development opportunities via the IVC Evidensia Academy
- Access to Vetlexicon â our online encyclopaedia provider
- All our Vets & Nurses can apply for research funding
- All our Vets get ÂŁ1250 per annum to spend via our Care Fund
- Infection Prevention and Control Programme
- Quality Improvement Programme
- Professional Memberships
- BVA membership
- VDS cover
- RCVS fees
- Colleague Benefits
- Company pension scheme. IVC Evidensia will make a contribution as well
- Supporting a greener commute to work with a Cycle to Work scheme and Green Cars Scheme, subject to eligibility criteria
- Voluntary benefits: we give you the flexibility to choose from a range of voluntary benefits to suit you
- Access to discounts/cashback with hundreds of participating retailers
- Discounted treatment for your own pets at an IVC Evidensia practice
Clinical Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Irvine employer: Ivybank Vets, Irvine
Contact Detail:
Ivybank Vets, Irvine Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land Clinical Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Irvine
â¨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.
â¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios specific to clinical leadership. Think about how you can showcase your mentoring skills and experience with a varied caseload. We want to see your passion for patient care!
â¨Tip Number 3
Donât just apply anywhere; focus on places that align with your values and career goals. Ivybank Vets is all about teamwork and high-quality care, so make sure to highlight how you fit into that culture when you chat with them.
â¨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Clinical Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Irvine
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Clinical Lead role. Highlight your leadership experience and any specific veterinary skills that align with what weâre looking for at Ivybank Vets.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for veterinary medicine and how you can contribute to our team culture. Donât forget to mention why youâre excited about the opportunity to work along the beautiful Ayrshire coastline.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: We love a collaborative environment, so make sure to highlight any experiences where youâve worked well in a team. Mention how youâve supported colleagues or contributed to a positive workplace culture in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us directly, apply through our website. Itâs the best way to ensure we see your application and can get back to you quickly. We canât wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ivybank Vets, Irvine
â¨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your clinical knowledge, especially in small animal care. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've handled and how youâve contributed to clinical excellence in your previous roles.
â¨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Clinical Lead, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to mentor and support colleagues. Think of examples where you've taken on a leadership role or helped improve team dynamics, and be ready to share these during the interview.
â¨Emphasise Teamwork
Ivybank Vets values a collaborative environment, so highlight your experience working in teams. Discuss how youâve contributed to a positive team culture and how you can help maintain that at Ivybank.
â¨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the practice's approach to clinical improvement and team development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the practice aligns with your professional goals.