Lead Veterinary Surgeon
Location: Coolock area, Dublin
Permanent | Full-time
Confidential Leadership Opportunity
The Vet Office is recruiting on behalf of a well-established, forward-thinking small animal practice in the Coolock area of Dublin, seeking an experienced Lead Veterinary Surgeon to take on a key leadership role within a highly skilled and collaborative clinical team.
This is an excellent opportunity for a vet with strong clinical credibility, leadership ability, and a particular interest in surgery, who is ready to influence standards, culture, and long-term clinic performance.
The Practice & Team
You will be leading a stable, well-structured team in a modern, well-equipped clinic with strong operational and management support, allowing you to focus on clinical leadership and people development.
* Experienced veterinary team with a mix of ECC, surgical and developing clinicians
* Strong nursing leadership, including an ECC-qualified Head Nurse
* Dedicated management support handling administration and day-to-day operations
* Collaborative, respectful culture with a strong focus on learning and wellbeing
Facilities include:
* Two consulting rooms
* Separate dog and cat wards
* Fully equipped surgical theatre
* Diagnostic imaging (including X-ray)
* Dental suite
* Calm, welcoming reception area
* Emphasis on fear-free, low-stress handling
The Role
As Lead Veterinary Surgeon, you will have overarching responsibility for the clinical, people, and operational performance of the practice, while remaining hands-on clinically.
Leadership & People
* Lead, coach and mentor the veterinary team, supporting individual development and career progression
* Foster a positive, inclusive, and psychologically safe team culture
* Act as a clear, motivating communicator within the clinic
* Work closely with nursing leadership to ensure excellent multidisciplinary care
Clinical Responsibilities
* Lead by example in clinical standards and best practice
* Promote strong clinical governance and regulatory compliance
* Support surgical development within the team
* Champion preventative healthcare and high-quality client communication
* Ensure transparency around clinical work, estimates, and billing
Operational & Strategic Responsibilities
* Play a key role in shaping and delivering the clinics business plan
* Take responsibility for clinic performance, KPIs, and sustainable growth
* Work collaboratively with senior management and support functions
* Drive team engagement, retention, and continuous improvement
Candidate Profile
* Veterinary degree recognised by the Veterinary Council of Ireland
* Proven experience in small animal practice
* Strong interest and experience in surgery
* Previous lead, senior, or mentoring role experience
* Confident decision-maker with strong emotional intelligence
* Excellent communication and organisational skills
* Commercial awareness and interest in clinic performance
Leadership, finance, or further clinical qualifications are advantageous but not essential.
Salary & Package
* €65,000 – €75,000 base salary
* Performance-related bonus
* Additional Lead Vet supplement
* Attractive benefits package (details discussed confidentially)
Why This Role?
* Genuine autonomy in clinic leadership
* Strong management support structure
* Stable, experienced team
* Opportunity to shape culture and standards
* Senior role without corporate micromanagement
How to Apply
This role is being managed confidentially by The Vet Office.
For a discreet discussion or to apply, please contact:
info@thevetoffice.com