Veterinary Medical Director J889212

Lead veterinary medical teams in a thriving small-animal environment in Lakeland, FL, with compensation up to $196,000. This senior leadership role blends hands-on clinical care with the opportunity to mentor doctors and elevate standards across multiple local hospitals.

The Hospital
A modern, community-focused general practice setting provides the foundation for success. The hospital offers:
- A collaborative culture with veterinarians, credentialed technicians, veterinary assistants, client service coordinators, shift leads and practice management support
- Routine and preventive services including wellness care, vaccinations, spay/neuter, dentistry and microchipping
- On-site diagnostics such as digital radiography and an in-house laboratory for efficient case workups
- Surgical capabilities supported by experienced teams and streamlined workflows
- On-site pharmacy plus convenient home-delivery options
- Additional services including medical grooming under veterinary supervision, end-of-life care, drop-off appointments and an available DNA testing option
- A practical location within a retail pet environment and on-site parking for ease and accessibility
- Ongoing professional development with structured coaching and continuing education support

Location
Set midway between Tampa and Orlando along the I-4 corridor, Lakeland blends big-city access with a relaxed, lake-filled lifestyle. A revitalized downtown, strong local employers and abundant parks make it an appealing base for professionals and families.
- Easy regional access to Tampa (about 30-40 miles) and Orlando (about 50-60 miles) for dining, entertainment and travel
- Lower cost of living compared with nearby large metro areas
- Scenic lakes and green space, including Lake Mirror, Lake Morton and Lake Hollingsworth with trails and promenades
- Bonnet Springs Park, a major new urban park with family-friendly amenities, trails and event space
- Circle B Bar Reserve for wildlife viewing, hiking and weekend outdoor adventures
- Downtown restaurants, breweries and frequent community events around Lake Mirror
- Detroit Tigers spring training at Publix Field and the Sun n Fun Aerospace Expo at Lakeland Linder International Airport
- Strong employer base and education hubs, including healthcare systems and colleges such as Florida Southern College (home to notable Frank Lloyd Wright architecture), Florida Polytechnic University and more

Benefits
- Production-based incentive plan
- Medical, dental and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Generous paid time off and paid holidays
- Continuing education allowance and paid CE days
- State licensure and DEA fee reimbursement
- Professional liability coverage
- Short- and long-term disability and life insurance
- Parental leave and employee assistance program
- Relocation assistance for qualified candidates
- Uniform allowance and pet care discounts
- Leadership development, mentorship and clearly defined career pathways

The Role
- Full-time, hospital-based leadership and clinical position with responsibility for guiding doctor teams across a local group of general practice hospitals
- Provide medical leadership, including coaching, mentoring and retention of associate veterinarians
- Uphold consistent standards of care through case consultation, medical record reviews and quality oversight
- Partner with practice management to align medical quality with operational goals and a positive client experience
- Recruit, onboard and support veterinarians, including new graduates and student externs
- Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, including controlled substance management and radiation safety
- Oversee medical equipment needs and maintenance in alignment with hospital priorities
- Maintain a portion of the schedule for clinical appointments and procedures; leadership-to-clinical time balance may vary by hospital needs
- Support access to care, timely follow-up and clear client communication
- Local travel between assigned hospitals within the Lakeland area

Requirements
- DVM or VMD degree from an accredited institution
- Active Florida veterinary license or ability to obtain promptly
- Eligibility for DEA registration and working knowledge of controlled substance regulations
- Eligibility to work in the United States
- Several years of small-animal clinical experience, including routine surgery and dentistry; prior leadership or mentorship experience preferred
- Strong communication, coaching and conflict-resolution skills
- Proficiency with computer-based medical records and standard office software
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and travel locally between hospitals as needed

Apply
Ready to lead, mentor and make an impact in Lakeland, FL? Click apply and one of our team will be in touch shortly.