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- Tasks: Lead a small animal practice, ensuring high-quality care and clinical standards.
- Company: Independent veterinary practice in Horley with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: 4-day work week, generous holiday, CPD support, and employee pet care scheme.
- Other info: Enjoy autonomy while collaborating with a dedicated team in a well-equipped environment.
- Why this job: Step into a leadership role and make a real impact on patient care.
- Qualifications: 4-5+ years of UK clinical experience and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
An established, independent small animal practice in Horley is seeking an experienced Veterinary Surgeon to step into a Lead Vet position at its well‑equipped first‑opinion branch. This opportunity would suit a vet with 4–5+ years of UK clinical experience who is ready for greater autonomy and influence. If you enjoy continuity of care, building strong client relationships and shaping clinical standards within a supportive independent environment, this role offers exactly that.
A Role With Genuine Ownership
Based at the Horley branch, you will work in a sole‑charge capacity alongside an experienced RVN and a dedicated client care team. While you will have day‑to‑day clinical independence, you will also collaborate closely with colleagues at a nearby sister branch — ensuring you are supported while maintaining leadership of your own site. This is more than a clinical role. As Lead Vet, you will have meaningful input into clinical protocols, workflow, case management and the ongoing development of the branch. The practice values progressive thinking and welcomes ideas that enhance patient care and client experience.
Well‑Equipped for Quality Care
The branch is fully equipped to support thorough in‑house case work‑ups, including:
- Ultrasound
- Digital X‑ray
- Fully equipped theatre
- In‑house laboratory analysers
There is also access to visiting and peripatetic specialists. Investment in additional equipment or specific clinical interests is encouraged where it enhances patient outcomes. As a truly independent practice, decisions are centred around clinical standards, patient welfare and team wellbeing — allowing vets to practise high‑quality medicine without corporate constraints.
The Package
- 4‑day week (3 days considered)
- 1 in 4 Saturdays (9am–1pm)
- No out‑of‑hours
- Salary dependent on experience
- 5 weeks holiday + bank holidays
- Additional week’s holiday for long service
- Generous CPD allowance, with support for certificates and clinical development
- Paid professional fees
- Employee pet care scheme
About You
You will be confident working independently while valuing collaboration with a wider team. You will prioritise continuity of care, communicate clearly with clients and colleagues, and take pride in seeing cases through thoroughly. Organised, proactive and clinically driven, you will be motivated to help shape and develop an evolving branch while maintaining high standards of first‑opinion care. If you are looking for a forward‑thinking independent practice where you can step into a genuine leadership role and make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you.
Lead Vet - Horley in Surrey employer: Purosearch
Contact Detail:
Purosearch Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Vet - Horley in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow vets, attend local meet-ups, or join online forums. Building connections can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality in interviews! Be yourself and let your passion for veterinary care shine through. Remember, they’re looking for someone who fits into their team culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some thoughtful questions for your interview. This shows you’re genuinely interested in the practice and its values. Plus, it gives you a chance to see if it’s the right fit for you!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of great opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Vet - Horley in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your 4-5+ years of UK clinical experience in your application. We want to see how your background aligns with the Lead Vet role, so don’t hold back on sharing your achievements and experiences!
Emphasise Your Leadership Skills: As a Lead Vet, you’ll have genuine ownership of your branch. Use your application to showcase any previous leadership roles or initiatives you've taken that demonstrate your ability to lead and influence positively.
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to tailor your application specifically for us. Mention how you value continuity of care and building strong client relationships, as these are key aspects of our practice. Personal touches go a long way!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at our independent practice in Horley!
How to prepare for a job interview at Purosearch
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your clinical knowledge and the specific procedures relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with the equipment and technologies mentioned in the job description, like ultrasound and digital X-ray, so you can confidently discuss how you would use them in practice.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Vet, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and influence. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've taken charge, shaped protocols, or improved patient care. This will show that you're ready for the autonomy this role offers.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
While independence is key, this role also involves working closely with a team. Be ready to talk about how you value collaboration and have successfully worked with others in the past. Highlight any experiences where you’ve built strong relationships with colleagues or clients.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the practice's approach to clinical standards or how they support ongoing development. Asking questions shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the practice aligns with your values.