Director of Practice & Clinical Services - Small Animal

Salary up to £90,000 DOE | Welcome Bonus up to £10,000 | Relocation Allowance up to £5,000 At inspiring vet care, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As the UK’s number one vet care provider, we're trusted with the care of over 2 million animals, delivering our purpose of healthier animals and happier owners. An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Veterinary Surgeon ready to take the next step into leadership. We are seeking a Director of Practice & Clinical Services to join Sheriffs Highway Vets in Gateshead on a fixed-term basis for 8–9 months to cover maternity leave. This unique role offers the opportunity to combine hands-on clinical work with strategic leadership, influencing clinical standards, governance, service development and team performance while continuing to deliver outstanding patient and client care. Working closely with the leadership team, you will help shape the future direction of the practice, mentor and support colleagues, champion clinical excellence, and foster a positive, collaborative culture across the team. Following the maternity cover period, the successful candidate will transition into a permanent Clinical Lead Veterinary Surgeon position within the practice. As Clinical Lead, you will continue to drive high clinical standards, support complex case management, lead clinical governance initiatives, mentor and develop veterinary colleagues, and work alongside the wider leadership team to deliver continuous improvement and exceptional outcomes for patients and clients. This is an ideal opportunity for a confident clinician with strong leadership skills who is passionate about developing people, influencing practice standards, and building a rewarding long-term career. Practice Highlights * Established four-site small animal practice (Gateshead, Sunderland, Ryton, Whickham) * Large clinical team of 14 Veterinary Surgeons supported by experienced nursing and support staff * Strong collaborative culture with a focus on mentoring and knowledge sharing * Modern diagnostic and surgical facilities including Doppler ultrasound, ECG, digital radiography, dental x-ray, endoscopy, laparoscopy, orthopaedic surgery suite, and in-house laboratory * Wide and varied first opinion caseload across multiple branches * Strong support for certificate development and clinical interests across the team How You’ll Make a Difference As a Senior Veterinary Surgeon, you will play a key role in both clinical delivery and supporting the wider team. You’ll continue to develop your clinical skills and interests while sharing your knowledge and experience with colleagues, contributing positively to the clinical culture of the practice. You’ll be an integral member of the clinical team, delivering excellent care and supporting the ongoing development of those around you. * Deliver high-quality small animal veterinary care across consultations, surgery, and diagnostics * Support, mentor, and guide less experienced veterinary surgeons * Contribute to clinical leadership and help maintain high clinical standards across the practice * Work closely with the leadership team to support clinical direction and development * Participate in a 1 in 3 Saturday rota across main and branch sites * Work across multiple branches, including Gateshead, Sunderland, Ryton, and Whickham Working Pattern * Full-time: approximately 40 hours per week * Typically 38 hours across four weekdays with a set day off * 1 in 3 Saturday rota (alternating full-day and branch morning shifts) * Flexible working discussions welcomed Life in Tyne and Wear Based in Gateshead, the practice is ideally located to enjoy everything the North East has to offer. From Newcastle’s vibrant city life and cultural scene to the stunning Northumberland coastline and nearby countryside, the area offers an excellent balance of urban and outdoor living. You Might Be a Great Fit If... You are a confident and motivated veterinary surgeon who enjoys working as part of a team and is committed to delivering high-quality patient and client care. You’ll bring: * A Veterinary degree and registration (or eligibility to register) with the RCVS * Strong experience in small animal first opinion practice * Confidence in clinical decision-making across medicine and surgery * Experience or interest in mentoring and supporting colleagues * Strong communication and leadership skills * A collaborative and proactive approach to team working How We’ll Support You At inspiring vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and well-being. When you join us, you’ll benefit from: * Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles * Funded learning and development, including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres & role-relevant courses * £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet * Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks * Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities * A collaborative, values-led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement What We Offer Our Team * 6.6 weeks’ holiday, including bank holidays * Private medical insurance * Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy * BVA membership, VDS cover & RCVS fees * Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies) * Retail discounts and cashback offers * Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets