Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Ware

At inspiring vet care, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As the UK’s number one vet care provider, we're trusted with the care of over 2 million animals, delivering our purpose of healthier animals and happier owners.

We are a group of 6 practices, including our well-equipped hospital in Ware, which benefits from a dedicated night nurse on site. This is a fantastic opportunity for a confident vet ready to take the next step into leadership or an established Lead Vet looking for a new challenge. The role offers a rewarding mix of sole charge practice and hospital support, giving you the best of both independence and team working.

You’ll work alongside experienced colleagues who value collaboration, knowledge sharing, and high quality patient care. You’ll enjoy a varied first-opinion caseload with an excellent balance of consultations and surgery, while also playing a key role in leading, supporting, and developing the clinical team.

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.

You Might Be a Great Fit If...

• You are a highly experienced veterinary surgeon with strong clinical expertise and a passion for leadership and clinical excellence.
• A Veterinary degree and registration with the RCVS with significant experience in small or mixed animal practice, including 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

At inspiring vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:

• 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

• 6.8 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.