Clinical leadership. Protected development time. A genuine pathway to Lead Vet.
If you are ready to lead, not just cope
If you love developing others but feel your current role leaves no space to do it properly, this could be the role you have been waiting for. This is an opportunity to step into leadership without giving up the clinical work you enjoy.
The Opportunity
We are working with a well-established small animal practice in Bolton, that has made a clear decision to invest in people, not just rotas. They are looking for an experienced Veterinary Surgeon to step into a Development Team Leader role, focused on mentoring, clinical standards, and shaping the next generation of vets.
This is not about firefighting or paper leadership. It is a hands-on, respected position where your voice matters. You will work closely with the Lead Vet, Practice Manager, and Clinical Operations Lead to create a structured, supportive environment for new graduates and recently qualified vets.
If you are already supporting colleagues informally, or you know you want to progress into a Lead Vet role, but want the right stepping stone, this role has been designed with you in mind.
Why This Role Is Different
A role built around development
You will oversee the clinical development of new graduate and under three-year qualified vets on site, with protected responsibility for training, feedback, and progression. This includes acting as a VetGDP Advisor and ensuring graduates complete their programme confidently and on time.
Real influence on clinical standards
You will support clinical governance through audits, case reviews, and mentoring, working alongside the Lead Vet and Practice Manager to maintain high standards that genuinely translate into better patient care.
Leadership without being left alone
You are not expected to figure this out solo. You will be part of the site leadership team, attend leadership meetings, and deputise for the Lead Vet when needed, with ongoing support and development in your leadership journey.
A clear pathway forward
This role is designed as a progression step. For the right person, it offers structured preparation for a future Lead Vet position, including leadership mentoring and exposure to wider operational decision-making.
Your Journey Here
In your first month, you will focus on building relationships, understanding the team dynamics, and getting to know the graduates you will be supporting. You will align with the Lead Vet on training priorities and governance processes.
By three months, you will be confidently mentoring new graduates, contributing to clinical audits, and supporting training sessions across the practice. You will be actively shaping development plans and influencing standards on site.
By six months, you will be a trusted clinical leader within the practice, supporting both junior and experienced vets, contributing strategically at leadership level, and progressing your own leadership development with a clear view toward a Lead Vet role if that is your ambition.
What’s On Offer
Compensation and time off
- Salary up to £65,600
- 6 weeks holiday, including bank holidays
- Visa sponsorship available
Professional development
- CPD and certificate funding available
- VetGDP Advisor role fully supported
- Clear progression pathway toward Lead Vet
Security and wellbeing
- RCVS and VDS fees paid
- Private healthcare after qualifying period
- 52 weeks sickness benefit
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Enhanced maternity and paternity packages
- Contributory pension scheme
Everyday extras
- Cycle to work scheme
- E-Car scheme
- Vivup store discounts
- Refer-a-friend bonus
The Candor Vets Difference
At Candor Vets, we do not push roles or rush decisions. We listen, we advise, and we focus on finding the right fit for the long term. That is how we work, and why so many vets come back to us when they are ready for their next step.
Ready to Explore?
If this sounds like the kind of leadership role where you could genuinely make a difference, let’s have a confidential, no-pressure conversation.
Job Reference VSTL001