At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a supportive team, manage clinical cases, and mentor colleagues in a vibrant practice.
- Company: Join Village Vet Berkhamsted, part of a larger network with collaborative opportunities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £75,000, generous holiday, CPD funding, and wellness programmes.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career progression and support for relocation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in companion animal care while enjoying leadership autonomy.
- Qualifications: Minimum 5 years UK GP experience, strong communication skills, and a passion for animal care.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 75000 £ per year.
Location: Hertfordshire
Role Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: 42 hours per week across 4 days, including weekends (either 1 in 3 Saturdays or 1 full weekend in 6, with time off in lieu)
Salary: Up to £75,000 per annum, depending on experience (DOE) + relocation support available for direct candidates
Why Join Us?
- Competitive salary of up to £75,000 DOE plus relocation support available for direct candidates
- A genuine leadership opportunity with autonomy and influence whilst remaining hands-on clinically
- Strong, stable and supportive team environment with experienced colleagues around you
- Part of a larger network of practices across Hertfordshire and London with collaborative working possibilities available
Team and Practice
You’ll join an established, stable and genuinely supportive team environment. The Berkhamsted team currently consists of:
- 1 Veterinary Surgeon (currently working towards an exotic certificate)
- 4 Registered Veterinary Nurses
- 4 Client Care Assistants
The existing exotics expertise within the team means we seek candidates with a stronger bias towards dogs and cats to complement the current clinical offering. You will also become part of the wider Village Vet and St Albans Hospital teams, giving access to additional clinical support, collaboration and learning opportunities.
What we’re looking for:
- Solid UK GP experience (min 5 years), confident managing routine medical and surgical cases independently
- Comfortable taking ownership, making clinical decisions and providing leadership within a practice environment
- Enjoy mentoring, supporting and collaborating with colleagues to help create a positive team culture
- Excellent communication skills and enjoys building strong, long-term client relationships
- Stronger interest in companion animal medicine and surgery, particularly dogs and cats
- Passionate about delivering high standards of patient and client care
- Previous leadership experience is welcomed but not essential for candidates ready to take the next step into a Lead position
What we offer
- 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays and Birthday Leave
- RCVS and VDS fees paid
- External CPD funded
- Extensive free online Linnaeus CPD program
- Career progression opportunities
- Staff discount schemes
- Life Assurance
- Enhanced sickness pay
- Enhanced equal family leave
- E-car salary sacrifice scheme
- Employer contribution pension scheme
- Recruitment referral reward scheme
- Wellness program including employee assistance program
- Eyecare voucher scheme
- Free annual Flu jab
- Cycle to work scheme
Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Village Vet Berkhamsted employer: VCA Inc.
At Village Vet Berkhamsted, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a competitive salary of up to £75,000 and comprehensive relocation support for direct candidates. Our strong, stable team environment fosters collaboration and professional growth, with access to extensive CPD opportunities and a commitment to high standards of patient care. Join us in Hertfordshire for a rewarding career where you can lead, mentor, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of pets and their owners.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Village Vet Berkhamsted
✨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. Show off your clinical decision-making skills and how you handle team dynamics – they want to see you in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on places that align with your values and career goals. Check out our website for openings at Village Vet and St Albans Hospital – we’re all about finding the right fit for both you and us!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that shows your enthusiasm and professionalism. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Village Vet Berkhamsted
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Lead Veterinary Surgeon role. Highlight your solid UK GP experience and any leadership roles you've had, even if they were informal.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for companion animal medicine and surgery, and how you can contribute to our supportive team culture at Village Vet Berkhamsted.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key in this role, make sure to demonstrate your ability to build strong client relationships in your application. Share examples of how you've successfully engaged with clients in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, plus you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at VCA Inc.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially around dogs and cats. Be prepared to discuss your experience with routine medical and surgical cases, as well as any leadership roles you've had. This will show that you're not just a good vet, but also a potential leader.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Even if you haven't held a formal leadership position before, think about times when you've taken charge or mentored others. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported your colleagues and contributed to a positive team culture.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you build relationships with clients and colleagues, and be prepared to share examples of how you've done this effectively in the past.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the practice and team dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you. Consider asking about the collaborative opportunities within the wider Village Vet network.
