Clinical Director, veterinary surgeon role, Devon/Cornwall

Discipline: Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon, Practice Management and Area Management
Contact name: Louise Evans

Contact email: louise@brightleaf.co.uk
Job ref: 8764
Published: 15 days ago
My Client is seeking a progressive and experienced Clinical Director to lead its dedicated team, offering an excellent opportunity for a veterinary professional looking to take the next step in their leadership career. Based in a highly desirable location close to the coast, Dartmoor, and Plymouth, the role combines career development with an appealing lifestyle.
With over 65 years of delivering high-quality care to both pets and farm animals across Devon and Cornwall, the practice has established a strong reputation. It operates across three small animal sites, all of which are fully equipped for surgical procedures. The team manages a wide range of medical and surgical cases in-house, supported by modern equipment such as dental radiography, visiting orthopaedic specialists, and advanced diagnostic imaging, including cardiac and abdominal scans.
The team consists of seven vets, supported by a skilled nursing and administrative team, and is known for its friendly, sociable culture. Regular clinical meetings encourage collaboration and continuous improvement, while social activities and additional benefits, such as membership to a local health and fitness club, contribute to a positive working environment. Professional development is strongly supported, with generous CPD funding and encouragement to pursue certificates or areas of special interest.
This is a full-time position based on a 4.5-day working week, with flexibility available to suit individual needs. Standard hours are 8:30am to 5:30pm, allowing for a healthy work-life balance. The role includes participation in a Saturday morning rota, with time off in lieu provided, and there are no emergency out-of-hours responsibilities. Overnight in-patient care is supported by a dedicated night nurse, with a vet available on-call if required. The salary for the position is up to £80,000, depending on experience.
In addition to carrying out the responsibilities of a small animal vet, the Clinical Director will lead and support the veterinary team, ensuring high standards of clinical care, compliance, and client service. The role involves contributing to both clinical and operational decision-making, fostering a positive and forward-thinking culture, and working closely with the Practice Manager and Head Nurse. There is protected time within the working day for both clinical and non-clinical duties, including leadership responsibilities, team development, and case reviews.
The ideal candidate will be a confident and motivated veterinary professional with strong communication skills and a collaborative approach. Previous leadership or mentoring experience is preferred, along with a genuine passion for maintaining high clinical standards and supporting team development.
The role also offers an extensive benefits package, including 6.6 weeks of annual leave, a £1,750 CPD allowance, paid professional memberships, health and wellbeing support, enhanced family leave policies, and a variety of additional benefits such as retail discounts, cycle-to-work schemes, and career progression opportunities.
To learn more about this exciting opportunity or wish to apply, please don't hesitate to contact Louise@brightleaf.co.uk or give us a call at 01422 433900. We are dedicated to assisting talented Small Animal Veterinary Surgeons and nurses like you in finding the ideal job.

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