Head Veterinary surgeon for brand new practice - West London

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

Contact email: louise@brightleaf.co.uk
Job ref: 8817
Published: 17 days ago
A new veterinary surgery is set to open, creating an opportunity for an experienced Veterinary Surgeon to take on the role of Head Vet from the very beginning. This position offers full clinical responsibility and the chance to establish a practice from the ground up, including building a team and shaping how care is delivered. Rather than stepping into an existing structure, the successful candidate will define the standards, culture, and overall direction of a modern, purpose-built environment equipped with the latest technology.
As Head Vet, the role combines hands-on clinical work with leadership responsibilities. The individual will guide and support the clinical team, ensure high standards of governance and patient care, and deliver a strong level of first-opinion medicine and surgery. Developing colleagues, fostering a positive and collaborative culture, and building lasting relationships with clients and the local community will all form key aspects of the position. The role carries genuine influence, allowing the Head Vet to shape both team performance and the long-term success of the practice.
The ideal candidate will be a confident and experienced Veterinary Surgeon with solid general practice experience and a natural ability to lead and mentor others. Strong communication skills and a commitment to high-quality patient care are essential, along with the motivation to take ownership of a practice and make it their own.
The working pattern is designed to support balance and consistency, typically involving four days per week with nine-hour shifts, participation in a one-in-four weekend rota, and an average of 39 hours per week. Administrative time is built into each shift to ensure workloads remain manageable.
The role is with an independent, family-owned organization. The group focuses on delivering high standards of care while creating calm, modern environments that prioritise both patient welfare and team wellbeing. Ongoing growth and investment across the organisation provide strong opportunities for career development.
In return, the position offers a comprehensive package that reflects this commitment to staff. This includes financial incentives and payments, funded CPD and professional memberships, and access to leadership development programmes. Additional benefits support both wellbeing and lifestyle, such as generous annual leave plus bank holidays, enhanced family leave policies, wellbeing support services, and schemes including electric car salary sacrifice and income protection.
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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