Work for us

Our culture

At the RCVS, we're proud of the excellent work culture we've created. We recognise the importance of a healthy work–life balance and offer flexibility, working collaboratively to support one another. We’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and able to be themselves.

We recognise and reward people with great attitudes and behaviours, who go the extra mile and stay the course. We pay well, we support and develop our people, and we offer great benefits.

Our values

Collaboration, professional development, and supporting one another to achieve shared goals are key to everything we do. We also celebrate excellence through our Pet and Animal Welfare Services (PAWs) awards.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are central to everything we do. As an employer, we strive to create an inclusive environment. We want our staff to feel able to be themselves at work and feel valued for their diverse experiences.

Accredited London Living Wage employer

We are an accredited Living Wage employer - this means everyone working for us receives at least the London Living Wage.

Where and how we work

We're based in the heart of London and embrace modern working practices that put employee wellbeing first.

Our location

We have our own fantastic new headquarters in Clerkenwell, right in the heart of one of London’s most vibrant and creative neighbourhoods, with excellent transport links. Our address is the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, 1 Hardwick Street, Clerkenwell, London, EC1R 4RB. 

Working hours

We operate a 33.75-hour working week - shorter than the typical 37.5 hours. Most of us work from 9.15am to 5pm with an hour for lunch. Our core office hours are 10am to 4pm, and you can flex your start and finish times around these times.

Hybrid working

We offer flexible hybrid working arrangements that balance collaboration with personal productivity, supporting a strong work-life balance while keeping teams connected.

We don’t have an organisation-wide pattern when it comes to where you work and when. How often you’re in the office depends on your role and the needs of your team, balanced with where and how you work best. We want our people to work where they feel most productive and supported.

Staff benefits

We are pleased to provide an excellent benefits package to support the wellbeing, financial security, and career development of all our staff:

• Holiday entitlement: 25 days plus bank holidays
• Additional leave: one extra day of your choice each year
• Long service leave: one extra day of holiday for every two years you work for us (up to 30 days total)
• Holiday trading: buy, sell or carry over up to five days each year
• Paid volunteering: two days per year to support causes you care about
• Standard Life pension: we contribute up to 12% of your basic salary
• Private medical insurance: AXA PPP (taxable option - restrictions apply)
• Season ticket loan: up to £10,000 annually
• Wellbeing allowance: spend up to £250 per year on anything wellbeing-related
• Life assurance incentive: £150 contribution towards a life assurance policy
• Loyalty bonus: £1,000 every four years
• Sabbatical opportunity: extended leave after 10 years of service
• Eye care support: free eye test plus £50 towards frames or contact lenses
• Cycle to work scheme: purchase a bike and pay in 12 monthly instalments via salary deductions
• Professional development: training and career progression opportunities
• Employee recognition: PAWs awards scheme
• Discounts and benefits: enjoy discounts at more than 900 retailers through Reward Gateway
• eMedapp: speak to a doctor by phone or video call, free of charge for you and your family
• Employee assistance programme - counselling and other support
• Free fruit at the office
• Flu jabs

Please note that some benefits are pro rata for part-time colleagues.

Applying for a job with us

We pride ourselves in creating a smooth, efficient, and transparent recruitment process. If you apply for a job with us, you can expect the following

1. Application review: we assess applications using competency-based criteria to ensure a fair evaluation
2. Initial screening: suitable candidates are contacted for further discussion
3. Interview process: conducted via Microsoft Teams or in-person, depending on the role. During the interview, we’ll use competency-based questions to confirm that you have the skills, experience and qualifications for the role
4. Final decision: we keep you informed and provide feedback
5. Reasonable adjustments: we ensure our process is accessible to all candidates

Offer

We understand how important it is not to be left waiting after an interview, so we’ll be in touch with the outcome as soon as possible.

Induction

We aim to welcome all new employees with a dedicated and informative induction programme, helping you settle in and connect with colleagues across the organisation.

Diversity and Inclusion

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented communities, including Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates.

Immigration status and visas

All employees must have the right to work in the UK. As of 1 January 2025, the UK government no longer accepts physical immigration papers. You'll need to verify your status digitally through the Home Office online system.

If you currently hold physical documents, we'll guide you through the transition to digital status verification.

RCVS apprenticeships

Looking for an alternative route into veterinary regulation? Our apprenticeship opportunities allow you to earn while you learn.

Apprentices receive structured training, mentorship, and clear progression pathways within a supportive culture. You’ll also benefit from many of the same benefits as colleagues across the organisation, helping to build a strong foundation for your professional development. 

These opportunities can be a great option if you’re starting your career or considering a change in direction.

Please note: apprenticeship opportunities are not always available. To check for current vacancies, please visit our recruitment website. 

External committee recruitment

Please see our current committee vacancies.