At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a small animal clinic with clinical autonomy and support from a dedicated team.
- Company: Join Gayton Vets, an independent practice with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary from £50k, generous holiday, and CPD allowance.
- Other info: Enjoy life in beautiful Surrey, close to nature and vibrant towns.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in veterinary medicine while enjoying work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Experienced small animal vet with leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 € per year.
What if your next role gave you real clinical autonomy, the backing of an experienced team, and the chance to shape how a practice evolves?
Veterinary medicine should be meaningful, not mechanical. It should challenge you without draining you, and inspire you without burning you out. You belong in a place that stands for clinical excellence and the community you serve.
Welcome to Gayton Vets.
Gayton Vets is seeking an experienced lead small animal vet to take clinical lead of their Horley branch, offering the autonomy of clinical ownership while remaining integrated with the wider GVG team and their shared values. This is a sole charge role supported by a brilliant RVN and team, allowing for thorough case work-ups, strong client relationships, and the opportunity to shape the development of the branch. If you ever want a second opinion, a tricky case discussion or just another vet to bounce ideas off, their main practice in Redhill is a short drive away.
They are an independent practice that’s been vet-owned for decades. In fact, their recent partnership change was specifically designed to keep it that way. Many of their vets have been with them 10–15+ years. They like to think that says something about the place.
What your week might look like:
- ~4 days per week (3 considered for the right person)
- ~1 in 4 Saturday mornings (9–1)
- ~ Time off in lieu if Saturdays worked
- ~ No out-of-hours
- ~ Genuine case continuity – follow cases through
- ~ Time to build real client relationships
Your clinic:
The Horley branch is small but very well equipped, including:
- Digital X-ray
- Ultrasound
- Fully equipped theatre
- IDEXX in-house blood machines
- Dentistry equipment
- Two consulting rooms
They also work with visiting specialists across numerous disciplines including imaging, medicine, ophthalmology, soft tissue surgery and orthopaedics. They have access to out-patient CT when needed. So, you’ll have the freedom of a branch practice without feeling professionally isolated.
What’s in it for you?
- Base salary from £50,000 with earnings reflecting your overall contribution
- 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays (additional week for long service)
- Generous CPD allowance of up £2500, and support for clinical interests
- Paid professional fees
- Staff pet care scheme
- A genuinely supportive long-standing team
Life outside the clinic:
You’ll be based close to Reigate, a brilliant little Surrey town packed with great cafés, pubs and independent shops. Step outside town and you’re straight into the rolling countryside of the Surrey Hills. Fancy a run, ride or cycle? Box Hill is practically on your doorstep. When city life calls, London is an easy train ride away, and if you’re craving sea air, Brighton is close enough for a spontaneous trip to the coast.
So, what’s next? If you’re an experienced vet looking to lead a small clinic, whilst still being part of a bigger supportive team, this could be the move that changes everything.
Forget the polished application; just reach out with whatever version of your CV you have on hand. We want to know the person, not just the paperwork.
Love your patients, trust your team, and thrive here at the Gayton Veterinary Group.
Locations
Senior Small Animal Vet. Horley, Surrey. From £50k with a package reflecting your impact. employer: VetFinders
At Gayton Vets, we pride ourselves on being an independent practice that values clinical excellence and community engagement. Our Horley branch offers a supportive work culture with genuine autonomy, allowing you to build meaningful client relationships while enjoying a generous benefits package, including a competitive salary, ample holiday, and professional development opportunities. Nestled in the picturesque Surrey Hills, you'll find a perfect balance between professional fulfilment and a vibrant lifestyle, with easy access to both countryside adventures and city amenities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Small Animal Vet. Horley, Surrey. From £50k with a package reflecting your impact.
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team before you even step foot in the clinic! Reach out on social media or through professional networks. A friendly chat can give us a feel for your personality and how you might fit into our supportive environment.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just rely on your CV; show us your passion! Bring along examples of cases you've worked on or any interesting projects. We love seeing how you think and approach veterinary medicine beyond the paperwork.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your clinical interests and how you envision contributing to our practice. We want to hear your ideas on shaping the branch and enhancing client relationships—let’s brainstorm together!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to be part of the Gayton Vets family!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Small Animal Vet. Horley, Surrey. From £50k with a package reflecting your impact.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're putting together your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are beyond the qualifications. Don’t stress about making it perfect; just be genuine and show us your passion for veterinary medicine.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with what we’re looking for in a Senior Small Animal Vet. Highlight any leadership roles or unique cases you've handled. This is your chance to show us how you can make an impact at Gayton Vets!
Keep It Simple:Forget the fancy jargon and keep your application straightforward. We appreciate clarity and honesty. Just tell us about your experience and why you’re excited about this role. Remember, we’re looking for real connections, not just buzzwords.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to get your application and ensures it lands in the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at Gayton Vets!
How to prepare for a job interview at VetFinders
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your clinical knowledge, especially around small animal care. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've handled and how you approached them. This shows your expertise and passion for veterinary medicine.
✨Show Your Personality
Remember, they want to know the person behind the CV! Be yourself during the interview. Share your experiences, what inspires you in veterinary medicine, and how you build relationships with clients and their pets.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions that show your interest in the practice and its values. Ask about their approach to clinical autonomy or how they support ongoing professional development. This demonstrates your commitment to being part of their team.
✨Highlight Teamwork
Since this role involves working closely with a supportive team, be ready to discuss how you collaborate with others. Share examples of how you've worked with RVNs or other vets to provide excellent patient care and improve clinic operations.
