Lead Veterinarian

About RSPCA Queensland

For more than 140 years, RSPCA Queensland has been a leading animal welfare charity, dedicated to improving the lives of animals – whether domestic, farmed, or native. We care for over 42,000 animals annually, relying on the generosity of animal lovers like you to fund 91% of our life-changing services.

Our Purpose: We exist for animals to live better lives.

About the Role

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced veterinarian ready to step into a senior leadership role where you’ll influence not only clinical decision-making but also the people, processes and standards that underpin veterinary services at RSPCA Queensland.

As our Lead Veterinarian – Domestic Hospital (Wacol), you’ll play a key leadership role in shaping the day-to-day operation, clinical governance and future direction of our Wacol Domestic Hospital.

Working closely with the Veterinary Director – Domestic and Practice Manager, you’ll lead and support a team of veterinarians, strengthen clinical governance, drive continuous improvement and foster a collaborative, high-performing culture. While you’ll remain connected to clinical practice, your greatest impact will come through developing people, improving systems and ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality veterinary care and animal welfare outcomes.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for an experienced veterinary leader who is just as passionate about developing people as they are about delivering exceptional veterinary care.

You lead with confidence, empathy and integrity, creating an environment where people feel supported, challenged and empowered to do their best work. You understand that great leadership isn’t about having all the answers – it’s about building capability, fostering collaboration and helping others grow. You’re someone who enjoys coaching and mentoring, providing constructive feedback and creating a culture of continuous learning and professional development.

You build trusted relationships with ease and communicate with authenticity, professionalism and respect. Whether you’re supporting a veterinarian through a complex clinical case, partnering with operational leaders or influencing organisational decisions, you’re able to navigate competing priorities with sound judgement, emotional intelligence and a solutions-focused approach.

You’re naturally curious, embrace change, think strategically while remaining hands-on when needed. Most importantly, you’re motivated by purpose. You want to lead a team that’s making a genuine difference and you’re excited by the opportunity to shape the future of veterinary services while helping thousands of animals receive the care they deserve.

What You’ll Do

In this role, you will:

• Lead, mentor and support our team of veterinarians, fostering a collaborative, engaged and high-performing culture.
• Provide clinical leadership and oversight to ensure the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based veterinary care.
• Act as a key escalation point for complex clinical cases, supporting veterinarians, veterinary nurses and operational teams.
• Strengthen clinical governance by developing, reviewing and implementing clinical protocols, policies and standards.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement through coaching, case review and professional development.
• Support the day-to-day operation of the Domestic Hospital, including clinical workflow, caseload management and surgical scheduling.
• Partner with the Veterinary Director – Domestic and Practice Manager to deliver strategic and operational initiatives that enhance veterinary services.
• Build strong relationships across veterinary, shelter and operational teams to improve collaboration and animal welfare outcomes.
• Support graduate veterinarians, mentoring programs and student placements to develop future veterinary talent.
• Contribute to departmental planning, financial sustainability and ongoing service improvement.
• Champion a safe, professional and values-led workplace that reflects RSPCA Queensland’s commitment to animal welfare.

What You’ll Bring to the Role

• A Bachelor of Veterinary Science (or equivalent qualification recognised in Australia).
• Current registration as a Veterinary Surgeon in Queensland.
• A minimum of five years’ experience as a practicing veterinarian, with previous shelter medicine experience highly regarded.
• Demonstrated experience leading, mentoring and developing veterinary professionals.
• Strong knowledge of contemporary veterinary practice, clinical governance and animal welfare principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships across multidisciplinary teams.
• Proven ability to analyse complex situations, exercise sound judgement and make informed decisions in fast-paced environments.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and experience using clinical and administrative systems.
• The ability to perform the inherent physical requirements of the role, including safely handling animals weighing 10kg or more.

Why Join Us?

• Comprehensive Support: Enjoy 8 weeks of paid parental leave, flexible working arrangements, study leave, and even leave for your furry companions. We also provide access to counselling and mental health services.
• Employee Perks: From free on-site parking to exclusive discounts, novated leases, and 50% off Royal Canin pet food, we’ve got you covered! You can also adopt a new furry friend with free adoption options.
• Professional Growth: Access expansive learning and development programs to help you elevate your career and skill set.
• Purpose-Driven Impact: Be part of a mission-driven organisation where every task makes a tangible difference to animal welfare.

At RSPCA Queensland, every role contributes to a better future for animals.

You’ll join a passionate and dedicated veterarinary team that is committed to delivering exceptional animal welfare outcomes. You’ll have the opportunity to lead and develop a talented team, influence the future of veterinary services and make a meaningful impact on the lives of thousands of animals across Queensland.

Interested?

If this sounds like the perfect opportunity for you, apply today!

Successful candidates will be required to undergo a Police Check for the safety and well-being of the community, staff, and animals. A pre-employment medical assessment may also be required.

RSPCA Queensland acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the land. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to a fair and inclusive hiring process, welcoming applicants of all backgrounds, regardless of faith, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity.