Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Acorn Veterinary Surgery, Hove, Hove, South East Are you ready to take the next step in your veterinary career?

We have an exciting opportunity for a Lead Veterinary Surgeon to join our talented and supportive team at Acorn Vets. This is a rare opportunity to assist with the clinical direction of a thriving two-site practice, with both leading and developing the motivated team, and continuing to deliver outstanding care to our patients and clients.

You’ll be joining a supportive and well-resourced practice, including:

• Dedicated team of 4 Vets, 7 experienced Nurses, 4 supportive Receptionists & Practice Manager
• Brand-new ultrasound machine (arriving soon)
• Brand new Digital & Dental X-ray, with separate prep and theatre areas
• In-house laboratory
• Loyal and growing client base
• Close to beautiful beaches, with excellent transport links to London and Gatwick Airport
• On-street parking and a lovely outdoor area for lunch breaks and team downtime

Hours: 37 hours per week (4 days per week at 9 hours, 8-6, with a 1:4 weekend rota, Saturday morning 8-12). Flexibility on offer. NO OOH or on-call.

At IVC Evidensia, we’re driven by the passion and commitment of our people - across clinical, operational, and support teams. With over 2,500 clinics and hospitals in 20 countries and around 41,000 employees, we work together to care for around 25,000 animals every day. United by a shared purpose - Healthy Animals, Happy Owners - we’re proud to champion long‑term animal health and welfare through the dedication of every individual across our international network.

• The role is primarily based at our main Hove branch, with occasional sole‑charge support at our second site (just 10 minutes away, typically once per week).
• Working closely with the senior practice leadership team, you’ll support the strategic direction of the practice and drive continuous improvement in clinical quality, outcomes, and ways of working.
• Mentor and support colleagues, contributing to their professional growth.
• Play an active role in the continued success and development of the clinic.
• Cater to a high surgical caseload.

• Advanced surgical and medical capability
• Proven experience in mentoring, coaching, and supporting veterinary colleagues
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision‑making skills
• The ability to manage clinical complaints and provide professional guidance in complex situations

• 6.6 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays – plus your birthday off
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced family‑friendly leave and pay
• 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Programme

• £1,250 CPD allowance + 40 hours paid CPD
• Certificate and advanced learning support & Access to Vetlexicon online resources
• World leading IVC Evidensia Training Centres
• £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet

• 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

Apply today or get in touch for an informal, confidential chat.

49 Portland Road, Hove, BN35DQ
, United Kingdom

At IVC Evidensia we are a committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Belonging, we are keen to hear from candidates from all minority and diverse groups. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are keen to hear from candidates with disabilities and long‑term health conditions and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process.

Speak to Megan Dawson from our recruitment team who would be happy to help you with any questions you have before applying for this role.