Head of Small Animal Orthopaedic Surgery - ECVS/ACVS Diplomate

Key Highlights

• Lead a thriving orthopaedic service in a state-of-the-art referral hospital experiencing sustained growth in caseload.
• Independent practice - benefit from rapid investment in equipment and genuine clinical autonomy without corporate constraints.
• Cutting-edge facilities including 64-slice CT, Retina FD C-arm fluoroscopy, Arthrex 4K HD arthroscopy, and comprehensive surgical kit.
• Supportive, specialist-led team with EBVS/RCVS Specialists and Advanced Practitioners across multiple disciplines.
• Build and shape your team with opportunities to mentor interns, future residents, and contribute to clinical research.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced ECVS or ACVS diplomate to step into a Head of Orthopaedic Surgery role within a busy and respected small animal referral hospital located in the North East of England.

This is a brand-new leadership position, driven by the continued success and expansion of the orthopaedic caseload. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of the service, collaborating closely with specialists across disciplines including soft tissue surgery, neurology, internal medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, and rehabilitation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the orthopaedic service, ensuring excellence in clinical care and operational efficiency.
• Perform high-level consultations, diagnostics, and surgical procedures - interest in joint replacement welcomed.
• Mentor surgical interns and play a future role in developing a residency programme.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external referring vets to foster a culture of approachability and teamwork.
• Contribute to clinical research and stay at the forefront of orthopaedic advancements.

What We're Looking For

• Diplomate of ECVS or ACVS (or board-eligible with completed residency).
• MRCVS/FRCVS status.
• Proven expertise in small animal orthopaedics with leadership experience.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Passion for patient care and professional development in a sustainable, supportive setting.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• 5 weeks annual leave + birthday + bank holidays. Paid lunch break.
• Pension contribution, enhanced sick and parental leave.
• Generous CPD budget with strong encouragement for professional growth.
• Relocation assistance available for the right candidate.
• A rare chance to lead and build within a modern, independent practice.

For more information or for a confidential chat, please contact Lorna on or email

To view all our vacancies, please visit

And don't forget, if this position is of no interest to you but you know someone who may be interested, please pass on our details. We offer £250 for every successful candidate referral. Terms and conditions apply

Ref: JOB-54684