Description & Requirements
Description & Requirements
Joining Applewood means becoming part of a network that deeply invests in the success and professional future of every teammate. While delivering exceptional care is our priority, we ensure you have the resources necessary to continue your education and achieve your career goals. This includes structured programs designed to support credentialed technicians and offer clear pathways into leadership or specialized roles. We provide access to broad continuing education programs and encourage skill diversification so you can grow in your chosen field.
Our commitment to comprehensive, advanced medicine is evident in the sophisticated services we provide our patients daily. At Applewood Animal Hospital, you will utilize modern tools, including dedicated equipment for Surgery, high-level Dentistry, therapeutic Laser treatments, and advanced in-house Radiology. Veterinarians benefit from internal access to specialty consultations, ensuring that complex cases receive expert review and allowing you to expand your clinical proficiency in a collaborative setting.
Applewood Animal Hospital is ideally situated in Paradise Valley, Arizona, a highly desirable and scenic community known for its luxurious yet relaxed Southwestern lifestyle. This location provides an appealing setting for veterinary professionals seeking both high-quality practice opportunities and access to the unique recreational amenities the greater Phoenix area offers. You will enjoy excellent weather and a vibrant, supportive community base while building a successful career here.
Your Impact as a Medical Lead Veterinarian
As the Medical Lead Veterinarian, you are the champion of medical excellence in your hospital. You will be responsible for mentoring and developing your associate veterinarians, partnering with your Practice Manager to build a healthy and engaged team, and driving the continuous improvement of patient care and client service. This is a key leadership role where you will set the standard for clinical quality and foster a culture of collaboration and growth.
- Lead and Mentor Your DVM Team: You will manage all associate veterinarians, conducting regular performance discussions, coaching them on individual development goals (including production and PCT), and fostering a culture of teamwork and retention.
- Role Model Medical Excellence: You will set the example for the highest quality of medicine, client service, and efficiency, while also practicing as an associate veterinarian and achieving your own production goals.
- Drive Hospital Performance: In partnership with your Practice Manager, you will help develop the annual operating plan, manage hospital financial performance toward an EBITDA goal, and ensure compliance with all medical and DEA regulations.
- Foster a Culture of Growth: You will lead monthly doctor meetings to discuss best practices, new services, and medical standards. You will also supervise externship and mentorship programs and champion a culture of recruitment.
- Be an Ambassador: You will serve as an ambassador for your hospital and Mission Pet Health through community engagement at schools, universities, and local events.
What You'll Bring to the Team
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and a valid state license in good standing.
- A minimum of 2 years of practical clinical experience.
- A servant leadership mentality with a commitment to our core values and the ability to build strong, collaborative relationships.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- An understanding of (or willingness to learn) the financial and operating management of a hospital.
- Proficiency in intermediate computer skills (MS Office, Outlook, etc.).
- Enthusiasm and a desire to be part of a progressive, growth-oriented culture.
Responsibilities and Benefits
How You're Supported
As part of the Mission Pet Health family, you get the autonomy of a local practice backed by the comprehensive benefits and resources of a larger network. The focus is on investing in you as a leader, so you can focus on your team and your medicine.
Generous Compensation
A competitive annual base salary plus a monthly production bonus with no negative accrual.
Total Wellbeing
Comprehensive coverage including Health, Dental, Vision, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Life, and Accident insurance, plus Paid Parental Leave.
Financial Health
Plan for your future with a 401k featuring a generous company match (100% on the first 3%, 50% on the next 2%), plus Long & Short-Term Disability insurance.
Leadership & Clinical Growth
Receive paid continuing education with dedicated days off, plus access to our comprehensive Leadership Training Program and structured mentorship.
Clinical Tracks Program
Access over 50 hours of in-depth, RACE-approved CE in Dentistry, Oncology, Internal Medicine, Dermatology, and Cardiology, facilitated by veterinary specialists.
The Power of a Network
Tap into a nationwide community of over 20,000 veterinary professionals for collaboration, support, and to grow your interests.
Peace of Mind
Company-paid professional liability coverage, license fees, and professional dues. Enjoy a flexible schedule, paid time off, and free 24/7 access to Teladoc.
About Mission Pet Health
Mission Pet Health was founded by veterinarians on the belief that local practices thrive with clinical autonomy, collaboration, and medical excellence. The organization provides world-class support to its 850+ hospital teams on a hyper-local basis so they can focus on what matters most: the medicine, their patients, and their team culture. Learn more at missionpethealth.com.
Driving the award-winning culture are the WAG values – Work Together, Amaze, and Grow. Mission Pet Health is veterinarian-led, people-focused, and on a mission to be the best place to work in veterinary medicine.
EEO Statement: Mission Pet Health is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.