Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Ferndown

St Mary's Vets is a well-established, single-site practice with a loyal client base, strong local reputation, and a fantastic first-opinion caseload. This is an excellent opportunity for a vet who enjoys the variety and continuity that comes with GP practice while having the support and resources to deliver a high standard of care. The role offers a great balance of consultations and surgery, with the opportunity to work cases in-house from routine procedures through to more complex medical and emergency cases. You’ll have the clinical freedom to manage your own cases while also benefiting from referral support when needed.

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.

Monday to Friday 9:00 – 18:30 (1 half day during the week 9:00 – 13:00 to be arranged) 1 in 3 Saturday mornings 8:30 – 12:30 No OOH or on call Open to part-time candidates.

Key Responsibilities and Qualifications

• You are a highly experienced veterinary surgeon with strong clinical expertise and a passion for leadership and clinical excellence.
• You’ll bring expertise in complex surgical and medical care and a proven ability to mentor, coach, and support veterinary colleagues.
• A Veterinary degree and registration with the RCVS, with significant experience in small or mixed animal practice, and 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

• 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.