Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

About the role

Abivale Vets in Wallingford is seeking a Lead Veterinary Surgeon to be the most senior clinician on site. You will drive clinical excellence, oversee complex cases and ensure outstanding patient and client care.

Key responsibilities

• Lead clinical standards, governance and quality improvement initiatives.
• Provide clinical leadership and decision‑making for the veterinary team.
• Oversee complex small‑animal cases and act as the primary source of clinical guidance.
• Support the senior practice leadership team with strategic direction.
• Manage day‑to‑day running of the branch, including client care and surgery ownership.
• Mentor and coach veterinary colleagues.

Required profile

• Veterinary degree and registration with the RCVS.
• Significant experience in small or mixed animal practice with advanced surgical and medical capability.
• Proven experience in mentoring, coaching and supporting veterinary staff.
• Strong leadership, communication and decision‑making skills.
• Experience contributing to clinical governance, audits and quality improvement.
• Ability to manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance.
• Professionalism, integrity and commitment to high standards of patient and client care.

Required skills

• Advanced surgical techniques
• Medical diagnostics
• Clinical governance
• Audit processes

What we offer

• Salary up to £70,000 (DOE)
• Full‑time 40 h week with occasional weekend shifts; part‑time considered.
• No out‑of‑hours or on‑call duties.
• Beautiful South Oxfordshire location with excellent facilities and equipment.
• RCVS‑accredited practices and a dedicated out‑of‑hours service.
• Supportive, friendly team environment.