Lead Veterinary Surgeon

Job Description

Introduction
A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a Head Veterinary Surgeon to join a well-established small animal practice in Barnsley and help lead the team into its next chapter of clinical excellence. This is a key leadership role for a vet who is passionate about delivering high standards of care, developing colleagues, and shaping the strategic direction of the surgery. The practice is looking for someone who can combine hands-on clinical ability with the drive to guide a growing team and influence the practice’s long-term vision. The role is worked over four days each week with one weekend in four, with no out-of-hours commitments other than being available if an inpatient remains overnight.

Working Hours / Rota
The working pattern consists of four days a week with a 1:4 weekend rotation. There are no out-of-hours shifts required, although the Head Vet will be on call only when the practice has inpatients staying overnight. This structure is designed to support a healthy work-life balance while ensuring continuity of care when needed.

Role Description
This role centres on providing strong clinical leadership while remaining actively involved in everyday veterinary work. You will be responsible for guiding the team, implementing high clinical standards, and ensuring evidence-based care across all departments. The practice seeks someone who can confidently consult, perform general surgery, and handle occasional sole charge. You will play a major role in continuous improvement, supporting colleagues through coaching, case discussions, and structured development. The position offers the chance to influence the clinical direction of the surgery and help shape a modern, forward-thinking environment that consistently delivers outstanding care.

Team and Culture
You will join a close-knit team consisting of experienced RVNs, veterinary surgeons, and a new graduate joining later this year. The practice benefits from diverse clinical interests, including exotics and diagnostic imaging, contributing to a stimulating caseload. The team is friendly, collaborative, and passionate about supporting one another, with a strong focus on ongoing CPD and internal development. Many students have gone on to join the team permanently after qualification, reflecting the positive and nurturing culture that exists within the practice. The surgery maintains strong links within the local community and is known for its welcoming, neighbourhood feel.

Practice Details
The practice is modern, purpose-built, and designed to create a calm, efficient environment for both patients and staff. Light, spacious and well-equipped, it supports a wide range of medical and surgical procedures. The practice enjoys a strong presence within the local community, reinforced by educational events, charity initiatives, and an active social media profile. The team has worked hard to build a warm, supportive atmosphere that makes the surgery an enjoyable and fulfilling place to work.

Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will be an experienced Veterinary Surgeon with excellent clinical skills and a genuine enthusiasm for leadership. You should be confident consulting, performing routine surgeries, supporting nurse clinics, and managing cases independently when required. The role requires someone who brings ideas, energy, and a forward-thinking approach, with the ability to mentor, motivate, and develop colleagues. A passion for delivering consistently high clinical standards and a desire to contribute to a positive and progressive practice culture are essential.

This is just some of the information about the job and company, but there will be more questions. Tempus Veterinary Recruitment is happy to get those questions answered for you during the recruiting process. Tempus Veterinary Recruitment is here to make the recruiting process simple and stress-free. Haven’t worked with a recruiter before? Not a problem — all communication is fully confidential, our service is completely free for candidates, and we often have roles that are not being advertised publicly.