Small animal vet, Maternity role cover with options to stay

A maternity cover opportunity is available for a Veterinary Surgeon at this practice in Huntingdon The practice is seeking a dedicated clinician to join its inclusive and progressive team on a one-year fixed-term contract commencing in March/April. There is potential for the role to become permanent at the end of the contract period.
The Practice: They are a locally owned, busy first-opinion practice committed to delivering high standards of patient care and welfare. The practice has clinical freedom and supportive culture typically associated with independent practices.
The practice is owned by three Partners, with a number of core team members who have been with the practice for several years, creating a friendly and close-knit working environment.
The clinical team consists of experienced veterinarians alongside a competent new graduate, supported by a strong RVN-to-vet ratio, one Veterinary Care Assistant, and a dedicated reception team. Nurses undertake Schedule Three procedures and consultations, enabling vets to focus on case management and clinical work-ups.
The practice frequently welcomes visiting orthopaedic and cardiology specialists. With a high proportion of insured clients, many investigations and treatments are managed in-house. When referrals are required, the team works closely with several well-regarded local referral centres. Some limited inpatient charge is shared (including occasional evenings and Saturdays), with senior support readily available. The out-of-hours service provider, Village Vets, offers additional guidance and case support overnight and at weekends.
Conveniently located, the practice offers excellent commuting links, with both London and Cambridge easily accessible via public transport and major road networks including the A14 and A1.
The Ideal Candidate
The practice is seeking a Veterinary Surgeon with ideally 2–3 years’ clinical experience. The successful candidate will be confident managing routine consultations and procedures, motivated to develop within a busy general practice setting, and committed to delivering outstanding client and patient care.
The role can be tailored to reflect individual clinical interests, whether surgical bias, consult-only responsibilities, or a blended caseload.
Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is a key priority. Flexible rota options are available and can be adapted to suit individual commitments. Options may include late starts, extended lunch breaks, split shifts, and varying combinations of working days.
Role Details
•    Full-time position (40 hours per week)
•    1 in 4 Saturdays
•    Option of a 4- or 5-day working week
•    No out-of-hours or Sunday work
•    One-year fixed-term contract (maternity cover) with potential for extension
Salary & Benefits
•    Salary up to £60,000–£70,000 FTE (negotiable depending on experience)
•    CPD allowance with active encouragement for development
•    Paid professional memberships (RCVS & VDS)
•    Birthday leave
•    Cycle to Work scheme
•    Death in service benefit
•    Increased annual leave after two years of service
•    Contributory pension scheme
This opportunity offers a supportive and forward-thinking environment for a Veterinary Surgeon seeking flexibility, clinical autonomy, and a strong team culture.
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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