Lead Veterinary Surgeon(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

Job Summary

We are looking for an experienced and compassionate Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our newest hospital in St Helens. This is an exciting opportunity for a vet who is passionate about both people and pets and who thrives in a leadership role.

As Lead Vet, you will guide and support our clinical team to deliver the highest standards of patient care. You’ll work closely with the Practice Manager and Lead Nurse to oversee daily operations, foster a positive and supportive work environment, and ensure our values are embedded throughout the practice.

Your role will also include contributing to the hospital’s strategic and financial success through the review of key performance indicators (KPIs) and profit and loss (P&L), helping to ensure efficient, high-quality service delivery.

About Our Hospital

Our new, purpose-built St Helens facility includes:

• 9 spacious consulting rooms
• 3 fully equipped operating theatres
• Diagnostic suite and digital X-ray
• Dedicated dental suite and isolation unit
• Separate cat and dog wards to promote low-stress environments
• Central prep area for efficient clinical workflow
• The hospital provides first opinion, referral, and out-of-hours care, ensuring comprehensive services for pets in the local community.

About Animal Trust

Animal Trust is a Community Interest Company (CIC) and non-profit organisation. Our mission is to make veterinary care accessible and affordable for all pets. We reinvest the majority of our profits directly into our teams, facilities, and patient care.

We believe in free consultations, transparent pricing, and removing financial barriers so that no sick pet is denied treatment.

About You

We’re seeking a motivated leader who shares our values and is committed to clinical excellence and compassionate care.

Essential Skills and Attributes:

• Strong clinical skills with a genuine passion for patient care.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with clients and colleagues.
• Confident in coaching and mentoring other vets and supporting their professional development.
• Experience conducting 1:1 meetings and performance management.
• Confident leading staff and clinical governance meetings.
• Hold, or be willing to obtain, a VetGDP qualification.

Desirable:

Interest in business management, including reviewing KPIs and P&L (training can be provided).

• Rota
• 38 hours per week over 4 days
• 2 in 9 Saturdays
• No routine Sunday or night work

Benefits

• 6 weeks’ annual leave per year
• 52 weeks’ sickness benefit
• Private healthcare and free Employee Assistance Programme
• RCVS and VDS fees paid

Visa sponsorship available

• Cycle to Work Scheme and E-Car Scheme
• Employee discounts via Vivup and staff discount on veterinary services
• Contributory pension scheme
• Enhanced maternity and paternity packages
• Access to mental health, financial, and life counselling (after 12 months of service)
• Funded CPD to support professional growth and development

Why Join Us

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Lead a team of talented and dedicated veterinary professionals
• Work in a modern, fully equipped hospital with a varied caseload
• Make a meaningful impact by improving access to veterinary care for pets and their families
• At Animal Trust, we are an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive culture where every team member feels valued and supported.