At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a skilled veterinary team and manage clinical activities in a supportive environment.
- Company: City Vets, a progressive and RCVS-accredited practice in Exeter.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, relocation support, pension scheme, and extensive CPD opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with shared weekend duties and supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on animal care while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experienced small animal Veterinary Surgeon with leadership or mentoring experience.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
While our wonderful Heavitree and Whipton Lead Vet is on her maternity leave, there is an opportunity for an experienced vet to join our friendly, highly skilled veterinary team as Lead Vet on a 12‑month fixed‑term contract. You’ll be working in a welcoming, progressive environment with outstanding facilities, including a CT scanner, at our RCVS‑accredited hospital in Exeter.
About the Role
As an experienced veterinary surgeon and leader, you will be responsible for the management and delivery of the clinical activities and financial performance within your business in conjunction with your Clinical Director. You will have a passion for delivering the best possible service, support and outcomes for patients, clients and colleagues, and the wider Linnaeus group. You will help shape your practice team, leading by example via excellent communication skills, ensuring smooth working relationships between your teams. You will ensure that excellent quality improvement and education, as well as Associate fulfilment, are an integral part of your business outputs, alongside a culture of being committed to excellence in all that is done.
Why we’re proud of City Vets
- A collaborative and forward‑thinking practice, RCVS‑accredited first‑opinion hospital and referral practice in Exeter, supported by three branch practices in Alphington, St Thomas and Whipton.
- Supportive senior leadership team with shared values.
- State‑of‑the‑art facilities – including CT, digital radiography, endoscopy, dental imaging, and separate wards for dogs, cats and exotics.
- We work closely with local referral hospitals and benefit from regular CPD events and dedicated input from Cave Veterinary Specialists.
- Investment in your professional development and leadership growth. We actively support certificate study both financially and clinically.
The Team
At City Vets, we are passionate about delivering outstanding patient and client care while ensuring our team feels supported, valued and able to maintain a healthy work‑life balance. Our progressive nursing team plays a key role within the practice, leading on imaging, lump removals and stage 1 dental procedures. We are proud to have multiple nursing certificate holders in exotics, anaesthesia, imaging and dentistry. Out‑of‑hours services are outsourced to protect work‑life balance, while inpatient care remains in‑house. Weekend duties are shared fairly across the veterinary team. Our practices are accredited Cat Friendly Clinics by the ISFM, ranging from Bronze at Whipton to Gold at Heavitree. In addition, St Thomas holds Silver Rabbit Friendly accreditation from the RWAF, and Heavitree is a Gold Standard RWAF practice.
What We Are Looking For
- An experienced small animal Veterinary Surgeon with strong clinical skills and previous leadership or mentoring experience in first opinion practice.
- A confident clinician who is comfortable managing routine surgical and medical cases and supporting colleagues with case discussions when required.
- Someone who enjoys mentoring colleagues, contributing to clinical discussions, and helping to develop a positive team culture.
- A proactive individual who is keen to contribute to clinical standards, team development, and the continued success of the practice.
What we offer
- 5‑weeks holiday plus bank holidays and birthday leave.
- Relocation support.
- RCVS and VDS fees paid.
- Employer contribution pension scheme.
- Generous staff discount scheme.
- Life assurance.
- E‑car salary sacrifice scheme.
- Enhanced equal family leave.
- Extensive internal and funded external CPD.
Contact
If you would like to apply for the role or for an informal chat to discuss it further, please get in touch with Lissa in the recruitment team at lissa.semerdak@linnaeusgroup.co.uk or call 07523268918.
Lead Veterinary Surgeon in Exeter employer: Linnaeus
At City Vets in Exeter, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment. Our commitment to professional development is evident through our investment in leadership growth and extensive CPD opportunities, ensuring that our team feels valued and empowered. With state-of-the-art facilities and a strong focus on work-life balance, we offer a fulfilling career for veterinary professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in animal care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Veterinary Surgeon in Exeter
✨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 practice. Think about how you can showcase your leadership skills and clinical expertise, as these are key for the Lead Veterinary Surgeon role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on places that align with your values and career goals. Check out our website for opportunities at City Vets and see how you can contribute to a supportive and progressive environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Veterinary Surgeon in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Lead Veterinary Surgeon role. Highlight your leadership experience and clinical skills, as these are key for us at City Vets.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for veterinary care and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention why you’re excited about the opportunity at City Vets.
Showcase Your Team Spirit:We value collaboration, so don’t forget to mention any experiences where you’ve successfully worked in a team or mentored colleagues. This will show us that you’re a great fit for our supportive environment.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Linnaeus
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your clinical skills and recent advancements in veterinary medicine. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've handled, especially those that showcase your leadership and mentoring abilities.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for animal care and team collaboration. Share examples of how you've contributed to a positive team culture or improved clinical standards in your previous roles.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the practice's approach to patient care, team development, and continuing education opportunities. This shows you're genuinely interested in the role and the organisation.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience in leading teams or mentoring colleagues. Highlight how you've managed challenges and fostered a supportive environment, as this is key for the Lead Veterinary Surgeon position.
