Lead Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Lead Veterinary Surgeon

Ark Vets, Galway

Full-time, Permanent

Salary up to €85,000 commensurate with experience

Relocation Assistance available

An Exciting Opportunity for an Experienced Veterinary Clinician Ready to Lead

Are you an experienced Veterinary Surgeon ready to take the next step into leadership? This role offers a unique opportunity to become a key part of a progressive, referral-led practice group in Galway.

We’re seeking a confident, motivated clinician who thrives in a collaborative environment and is passionate about driving clinical excellence. This position is ideally suited to someone looking to advance towards a Clinical Director role in the future.

An existing certificate, or strong interest in pursuing one, in Diagnostic Imaging or Dentistry will be a distinct advantage. You’ll have access to cutting-edge facilities including a CT scanner, digital x-ray, ultrasound and a fully equipped dental suite with dental radiography.

Role Overview

Position: Lead Veterinary Surgeon

Type: Full-time, permanent (40 hours per week)

On-call rota: Generous on-call rota shared with neighbouring IVC practice As our Lead Vet, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping clinical standards, mentoring colleagues, and ensuring our patients receive the very best in veterinary care. You’ll work closely with the Practice Manager and leadership team to support clinical operations and contribute to business development, while maintaining hands-on clinical work across consultations, surgeries, and complex cases.

This role is a perfect blend of leadership, strategy, and clinical practice – ideal for someone who enjoys being both an inspiring team leader and a dedicated clinician.

Applicant Requirements

We’re looking for someone who brings a balance of clinical experience, people skills, and ambition.

VCI Registered Veterinary Surgeon

Proven experience in small animal medicine, surgery, and emergency care

Strong leadership and communication skills – ability to motivate and inspire your team

Interest or postgraduate training in Diagnostic Imaging or Dentistry highly desirable

Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

Business and financial acumen beneficial – training and mentorship will be provided If you’re a natural leader who enjoys taking initiative, supporting others, and thinking strategically about patient care and practice growth, we’d love to hear from you.

About Us – Making an Impact Together

At Ark Vets, we pride ourselves on being more than just a veterinary practice. Our mission is to make a real difference to our patients, our clients, and our team. Our Knocknacarra branch serves as the referral centre for our group, managing both first opinion and referral cases. The practice boasts advanced diagnostic and surgical capabilities including:

CT Scanner

Digital X-ray and ultrasound

Full IDEXX laboratory suite

Endoscopy and orthopaedic referral services

Brand-new surgical extension with state-of-the-art theatres Our St. Mary’s Road branch complements this with a fully equipped dental suite and dental X-ray facilities, allowing our teams to deliver outstanding care across multiple disciplines.

You’ll be joining a friendly and skilled team of 8 Veterinary Surgeons, 7 Veterinary Nurses, a Practice Manager, and 4 support staff, all united by a shared commitment to gold-standard veterinary medicine and a supportive working culture.

Our Culture and Commitment

At IVC Evidensia Ireland, we believe in investing in people as much as in facilities. We offer a supportive, inclusive, and progressive environment where you’ll be encouraged to reach your full potential. We provide:

Fully funded CPD opportunities and postgraduate certificates

Structured career pathways for clinical and leadership development

A collaborative and compassionate culture where innovation and teamwork are celebrated

Whether your goals are clinical excellence, leadership growth, or specialisation, we’ll support you every step of the way.

Benefits (Subject to Pro Rata)

We value balance, wellbeing, and professional development. Along with a competitive salary, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including:

Work-Life Balance

Enhanced annual leave entitlement

Birthday leave

Paid maternity, paternity, adoptive leave packages

Cycle to work scheme

Full access to employee assistance programme and wellbeing centre

Company sick pay & paid bereavement leave

Professional Development

€1,300 annual CPD allowance + 5 paid CPD days

Funding for certificates, diplomas, or even PhDs

Clear career progression opportunities, both clinical and non-clinical

Professional Memberships

VCI membership covered

VDS cover paid

Additional Benefits

Annual pay reviews

Dedicated CARE Fund (€1,100 annually per Vet) for special cases

Pawesome Benefits reward platform (discounts and cashback with retailers)

Employer pension contributions

Free flu vaccinations

Discounted veterinary fees

Opportunities to join company committees and programmes (LGBTQ+, Wellbeing, Clinical Boards, and more)

Ready to Take the Lead?

If you’re a seasoned clinician eager to step into a leadership role within a thriving, forward-thinking practice, this is your opportunity.

Join Ark Vets Galway and be part of a team that’s shaping the future of veterinary care – where your expertise, passion, and leadership can truly make a difference.

Apply today and take the next step in your veterinary career.