Clinical Director or Practice Director

Clinical Director or Practice Director – Ashfield Vets, Annfield Plain, County Durham (Fixed term contract)

We are seeking a Clinical Director or Practice Director to join us on a fixed‑term contract. This key leadership role will drive high‑quality, patient‑centred care while supporting operational performance and continuous service improvement.

Rota

Full time 40 hours a week. Part‑time hours can be discussed.

Location

Annfield Plain, Durham – commutable from Newcastle, Sunderland, Darlington, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Stockton‑on‑Tees, and surrounding areas.

Responsibilities

Clinical Director role:

• Senior Veterinary Surgeon with strong clinical and people leadership.
• Lead on clinical excellence, oversee complex cases, and ensure best practice in line with RCVS and Clinical Governance standards.
• Mentor and support the team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Deliver outstanding patient and client care.

Practice Director role:

• Commercially focused and strategic leader responsible for overall operational and financial performance.
• Drive business performance, optimise resources, support sustainable growth.
• Lead and engage teams, champion development, ensure alignment with company values.
• Enhance client and colleague experience.

Qualifications

• Experienced Senior Veterinary Surgeon (for Clinical Director).
• Commercially minded leadership experience with operational and financial oversight (for Practice Director).
• Strong clinical governance knowledge and RCVS standards compliance.
• Excellent interpersonal, mentoring, and team‑building skills.

Leadership Values

• Inclusivity – Valuing diverse perspectives and bringing out the best in everyone.
• Collaboration – Encouraging open communication and addressing challenges early.
• Accountability – Supporting honest conversations through regular feedback.
• Role Modelling – Leading with integrity and consistency.
• Empathy – Supporting wellbeing while driving high performance.

Benefits (pro‑rated for part‑time or fixed term)

• RCVS & VDS fees paid in full.
• Generous CPD allowance, BSAVA library access, >450 courses, fully funded postgraduate qualifications with tuition, exams, and study leave covered.
• Up to 33 days holiday (option to buy/sell).
• CVS Pension Scheme.
• Access to Vet Oracle telemedicine specialists, Advanced Clinical Services Network and Regional Clinical Leads for case support and mentoring.
• Health cash plan, Employee Assistance Programme, Wellbeing Champions, and enhanced family leave policies.
• Staff pet care discounts – 50% off services, MiPet food, and medications.

Contact

Please contact Jim in the recruitment team at jim.mcdowell-massar@cvsvets.com for further details or an informal chat. Applications can be submitted online.

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